So, a few years ago, I bought a 2013 Cadillac ATS 2.0T with the intent that it could shuffle the whole family around in a pinch and still be autocrossable. Then we had kid #3. So, that idea was thrown out the window fairly quickly. Now I'm starting to muse what I'll be doing car-wise in the future. I've got the higher end Continental all-seasons on the car. Stock. RWD. Automatic. Premium (with the LSD).
Do I mod or replace? What's driving this thought?
- I know that the 2.0T on the ATS is pretty good in terms of boost threshold and turbo lag. But mashing the gas pedal isn't fun until the boost kicks in. I'd like to either lower the boost threshold or get something with bigger displacement for faster throttle response with 250+ torques (or, perhaps more appropriately, something w/ 11 lbs per HP or less).
- I want the steering to be more responsive. I think I had the same thoughts with the RX-8. I don't want it to roll, take a set and then turn. I want it to follow the steering wheel almost instantly.
- I like both the RX-8 and ATSs front engine, RWD, limited slip setup in general. The 350z I had way back when might have ticked all the boxes if it had a mechanical LSD.
- I no longer feel compelled to have a back seat, and I'm remote only; I no longer have a commute.
If I were modding, I'd probably be looking at a $5k budget, with some of that going to labor (I don't have a garage right now). If I were buying, it would be about $20k for car + repairs + mods. Oh, and use case is mostly street with casual autocrossing in mind.
