Last update: January 18, 2002.
| Performance Improvement Tips |
Despite the above average performance of most stock LeBarons some of us just have the need to go faster. Well we're in luck! There is a large selection of aftermarket performance parts and suppliers for the MOPAR 2.2L/2.5L family of engines. After driving the 'Red Baron' stock for over eight years I've started doing my own performance upgrades. The following table lists the parts I've installed and the performance gains experienced after each modification.
Note: If you happen to have a 3.0L V6 then check the Performance Tuning the Mitsubishi 3.0L SOHC V6 website.
| Description | Cost ($CDN) | Installed | * Gains | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOSH Platinum Spark Plugs, WELLS Professional Gold Series Cap & Rotor Kit, MOPAR Wire Set | $75.85 | Nov. 4, 1999 | 2-5hp | While this step isn't really a performance upgrade I wanted to lay down a good foundation from which to build upon. So replacing the key ignition system components with new parts seemed to make sense. At the very least cold starts and idle characteristics improved. Not to mention reduced emissions, better gas mileage, and a little more horsepower. | MOPAR Performance Computer | $218.95 | Dec. 14, 1999 | 15-20hp | If you only make one modification to your Turbo LeBaron this should be it! Installation is simple and the gains are incredible. The computer raises boost levels up to 11 psi and eliminates the boost-limit timer. Fuel delivery and spark advance are also modified to take advantage of the increased boost levels. | K&N Air Filtercharger | $80.00 | Jan. 7, 2000 | 5-8hp | Reducing air flow restrictions is a key factor to getting the most out of your Turbocharger. Paper air filters are extremely restrictive, even when new. I used a K&N drop-in panel style filter in the stock airbox so I wouldn't have to modify the air induction system. The key advantages to this approach vs. a custom K&N cone setup are the ease of installation and that ECU cooling and fresh air supply are not compromised. | Dynomax Performance Exhaust | $275.15 | Aug. 14, 2000 | 8-10hp | This was by far the most labor intensive modification. The system was advertised as a LeBaron kit but required additional parts and some custom fitting, which drove the cost of this upgrade up higher than expected. Top-end performance has benefited most from this modification, which makes sense since you flow more exhaust at higher speeds. |
Summary
My upgrade program was completed in under a year at a total cost of $649.95 CDN. Taking my gain estimates at face value I'm now running between 180-225hp and who knows how much torque (210lbs./ft. stock).The overall gain compared to stock performance is incredible! Each item resulted in a certain level of performance improvement, but the real key is the way the individual upgrades worked together to produce an overall result. It really is a 'program' that gets better as you go along. Bear in mind I also started with a low mileage engine and enjoy the benefit of the manual transmission. Those of you with higher mileage engines and automatic transmissions may not experience the same gains I did. Still I think it's worth the time and money if you're yearning for better perfomance.
What's really cool is that my LeBaron performs much better now than it did when new; the car is definately a keeper. I've spent a little time looking at the 2001 Sebrings, but I'm quite convinced now that my ten year old LeBaron could probably outperform a new Sebring. Although a 200hp V6 has to be a blast to drive. Somehow there are some intangible qualities about my LeBaron that keep me attracted to the car.