200 WHP, what's the best route?

magnetopenguino · #1 (**permalink**) 04-01-2008, 03:32 PM

I've been thinking about what I want to do to my car, (My theoretical future car that is, I'm likely picking up a 9c1 Impala within a month), And I've decided that bumping the 3800 up to 200 horsepower at the wheels would probably make me pretty happy.

I've read up on the basics - intake, thermostat, plog, hv3, downpipes, tuners, cams, rockers...

Basically, I just want to know what the best combination of parts is going to be to achieve this goal. Also, if I can get to this power level with using rockers over cams, I'd prefer that, as it seems that rockers have an easier installation process. However, I know several guys who are more knowledgeable on cars that I, that could help, or I could always look into having it installed for me... What I'm saying is I'm not opposed to a cam install if that's the best route.

Also, as a side question, what kind of 1/4 mile time would I be looking at with that level of power and a shift kit?

meatyshells · #2 (**permalink**) 04-02-2008, 01:54 AM

my car made made 199 rwhp with basically just 1.9 roller rockers, headers, intake, and exhaust

magnetopenguino · #3 (**permalink**) 04-02-2008, 01:58 AM

Nice, thanks for the response. Good to know it's a pretty acheiveable number... I was thinking I might have to install cams, but it sounds like it's very acheiveable with just rockers and exhaust work.

However, would there be a huge difference between midband power opposed to just upper rpm power between the cams and rockers?

meatyshells · #4 (**permalink**) 04-02-2008, 02:15 AM

it depends on your exhaust pipe size, but high ratio rockers tend to give you power in the ~4k plus mark. A cam would gain you more mid ranger power in most cases i believe

magnetopenguino · #5 (**permalink**) 04-02-2008, 02:21 AM

So, assuming I went with the 1.9 rockerks, what exhaust size would best supplement it for a full power band?

GTPHIPPIE · #6 (**permalink**) 04-02-2008, 07:05 AM

You aren't going to get 200 whp with the same mods as meatyshells. There is less drivetrain loss with the rwd 3800s. You will most likely need at least a cam to get around there. If I were you I would just get a supercharged impala, much easier to mod and make power.