I know it's still a couple of months away but I wanted to ask for recommendations as to what first mod I should do to my MCS? first off, it's an 05 which I've read now has 170+HP. is this right? secondly, I'm already shopping for tires to replace the runflats it will eventually come with.... yoko avs100's...... how about azenis?

 

I've heard very good things about the Azenis. The only negatives have been that they don't handle water well, and they don't last that long... Being that you are in sunny SoCal, that might be a wise choice. I have the Yokos that you mentioned, I find them to be a very well-rounded tire. I don't get much rain here in NorCal, but when we do, being in a canyon, I see my fair share, and the Yokos still let me continue on with my fun!

Otherwise, for additonal power, a smaller reduction SC pulley will run you about 400 bucks installed. For improved handling ontop of the tire selection, a rear sway is a must. It is fairly easy to install, and at 200 or so dollars, very worthwhile. I know that is two items, but if you can swing it, there you go. Oh, intake and exhaust will run you about a grand total, but those items are generally the first the most folks do... It's addicting. Enjoy!

 

Thanks.... I guess the fatter sway bars are a must since I didn't get the sport package with my MCS... i've seen several and I believe there's 19mm and a 22mm... would the 22mm be a better choice for mostly street driving (and a few canyon carvings to match)...... is it a pretty straightforward do-it-yourself project? thanks again.

 

There is no change in the sway bar on the MCS with the sport package. It's just the heavier 17" wheels and tires, more of an anti-sport package in that way.

Around L.A. you could run the Azenis, but you'll get more mileage out of the AVS100s. Unless you are autocrossing I'd get the AVS100s. I've had both.

 

First mod?

For suspension consider the rear swaybar which you can do yourself if you like.
See the how to's in the performance mods announcements.
22mm bar is stiffer by 200% to 300% over stock bar.
19mm bar less stiff. You can choose several settings using the 3 holes.
Your choice.

The sports package for the MCS does not offer any change in the rear swaybar.

Other good first mods-
tires like you mention. If your budget is bigger then consider Bridgestone Potenza S-03 which are quite good for street and autocross/track. Another good choice is the Kumho Ecsta MX.

Short shifter- check with Helix13 if theirs will fit the 2005 MCS.

Intake- take your pick.

Have fun.

 

IMHO wheels and tires, they offer a unique aesthetic change to set your car apart from the rest and also a massive gain in performance and handling. Also, since a set of wheels and tires is probably the most expensive mod you'll end up doing in the early stages it's nice to get the big expense out of the way while your wallet is still wet from paying for the car.

 

Wheels and tires if you're into cosmetics, but definitely a stiffer rear sway bar if you want a functional and enjoyable mod. A stiffer rear sway bar will absolutely transform the car. Don't go too stiff unless you're going to autocross. A 19MM, three setting bar would be a good choice IMHO.

Enjoy.

 

If you choose a 19mm bar then try the medium (best place to start) to stiffest setting.
If you choose the 22mm bar then try the softest setting first.

It is possible to select a setting which is too stiff. Depends on your driving style and your suspension setup.

 

Fuzzy dice....fuzzy dice needs to be A number one. Followed by different color mirror covers......call when you're done.......