Mk4 SE, need more power....

[rufus]

This is my first post on the forum so please excuse my ignorance. I've just purchased a 1996 1.4 SE for a bit of fun. Seems to be generally ok apart from n/s front wheel bearing and noisey 4th gear. Are they're any cheap and effective ways to gain a bit more power? ie swapping parts for bits of other models like throttle bodies etc. And what are the most effective ways to improve the handling? I'm happy to stick with 13 inch wheels so I think I will be lowering it, so I need to decide if just changing the springs will be ok or if I need some coilovers. All info greatfully recieved. If these topics have been covered before please put some links up for me.
Cheers
Mike

[Tim_GTi]

performance - Generally not alot in it. Air filter, manifold, exhaust system will sound nice, and maybe give you a couple more BHP. Your looking at big money anything more, and for little gain.

Handling - ARBs and strut braces will help, and lowering it definitely. Are you looking for strictly handling when it comes to lowering? Or does style also come into the equation? If the latter applies you'd probably want to get coilovers, as no lowering springs and shocks will achieve that great a stance (appearance wise) on 13"s.

[rufus]

Suspension mods would pruely be to benefit the handling. A mate has a complete set of 40mm lowered parts from a mk2 Golf which i'm led to believe uses the same floor pan/chassis. I think i'll get 1 front and 1 rear to try before I commit to buying. I'm toying with the idea of fitting bike carbs as I have a set of 1998 R1 carbs in the shed. I think i'll measure up and fabricate a manifold at work and take it frim there, if it proves to be too complicated Ican always sell the manifold!

[Sports Racer]

You might want to check if the MK2 is compatible with the Polo. I thought it was the MK3 that has the same parts.

Cheers

Paul

[carlgannon]

yeah im pretty sure its the MK3 Golf that shares some parts to the 6N Polo