Car: 2006 Optra 1.6 VGIS
First off, I didn't want a drag machine. If I did, I'd have gone for a Baleno/Vtec/Corolla. Also, I have opted for 205/55r15 tyres. While these slow me down by a couple of seconds, they make a huge difference in highway handling. Which is where I prefer to do my driving.
What I wanted was a high speed cruiser, which would give me great ride quality and comfort, coupled with great performance. Also, I wanted her to remain a sleeper with no flashy mods except for the rims.
The Optra fulfilled all my requirements except for the performance. Which is why the project began...
All mods were carried out in stages, so I could observe them individually. My thanks to Viper Performance India for doing an excellent job and patiently putting up with my calls at all times of the day.
Step 1 Tri Phase Module: I've already written in length about this in the Tri Phase Reports thread. Great product. Absolutely no regrets.
Step 2 Ractive EV500 Conical Air Filter + OWS Dual Tip Iridium Plugs: Seriously, I don't know what the fuss is over K&N. I've also used HKS abroad, and I found the Ractive EV500 does a great job and is actually cheaper than its K&N counterpart. The car breathes much better and has a nice grunt.
The car was previously running on NGKs, but the difference with OWS dual tips was obvious right from the first time I hit the throttle. Extremely good response. I'm happy.
Step 3 Straight Pipe Free Flow Exhaust + Headers & Throttle Body Enlargement: This was a tricky one for me. I wanted maximum performance without compromising heavily on the Optra's famed NVH reduction. I also wanted it to look as stock as possible. No big, loud flashy muffler for me.
After a couple of conversations, Viper/Jignesh put together a great combination that was customised to meet my every requirement. The new headers run through to a straight pipe. The muffler with 1.5" SS tip is nice and discreet at idle and low revs, but sounds great when you start ripping. The entire setup is designed for mid and high range power. The throttle body was also enlarged and a new butterfly valve was fabricated and fitted.
The FF and Throttle Body work really changed the character of the car. The overall torque and driveability has really made a big difference. Once you cross 3k, the fun begins!
Step 4 Stage 2 Porting and Polishing + 3 Angle Valve Job + Head Shaving:
Mindblowing! No other words for it. The car is now pulling like a freight train. There is a significant increase throughout the powerband, but once you hit the high revs, you can really feel it kicking in. The sound is also extremely gratifying.
Step 5 ?
Well I'm considering a standalone ECM in the future. Have heard some great things. Will post if/once that happens.
Conclusion
The project has been extremely satisfying. Along the way, I have learnt many new things and made some good friends. Sure I'm poorer, but I'm happier
What I have now is a perfectly functional daily cruiser that has all the plus points of the Optra, coupled with performance that puts a big smile on my face.
As far as FE goes, I've not had the opportunity to check properly because I've been ripping it at every opportunity. But once that settles down I'll post a comment.
Thanks for reading
Boom