Hi Everyone

[StevieDB9]

Hey there! New to the tuning and modifying scene. Just purchased a Volkswagen Polo Mark 3 Phase 2. (The one that looks like a mini bora from the front). Not done much to it yet but have some big plans! The extent of my modifying so far is a titanium tax disc holder!!

[waynne]

Hi - Welcome to the site.

You've started simple. Thats good! I don't think the titanium tax disc holder would have much impact on performance (unless it is paired to the stick on titanium petrol cap cover ) What engine do you have some are very tunable and others do not have much to give?

How much are you looking to spend and what sort of car do you want to end up with? Economical torquey hack? Road burning high revving flame spitting monster or something in between?

[StevieDB9]

I'm a student so i'm a bit short of cash!

it is the 1.4 litre sohc (about 75bhp)
im not looking to turn it into a snarling racer just some basic Modifications. more into aesthetics. thinking of getting a custom made exhaust, volkswagen 16" alloys, front foglights (like the GTi), xenon bulb upgrade and some performance air filters. Very basic stuff, not got the money to spend on serious engine work plus i doubt there would be much to gain from such a low power engine anyway. have to think of the insurance premium too!!

[waynne]

A high performance panel air filter would be better than an induction kit (I would only get an induction kit if you want the induction roar sound.)

Suspension Modifications would make the car more fun to drive. If you get the bigger alloys make sure you go for lower profile tyres this will improve the handling and keep the speedo reading accurate.

I worry when people talk about a custom exhaust - I imagine a bit of drainpipe welded to the engine. Stick to a maximum of about 2 inches in the pipe width for the best effect.

[StevieDB9]

dont worry, its not that custom!!!
There is a reputable specialist company close to where i live that makes full system exhausts to order for the customer depending on the car and what there looking for.

whats your advice on insurance concerning such modified cars, will it make much of a difference?

[waynne]

I did an article on car insurance as this is a question that keeps popping up - you can read the article in its entirity here
modified car insurance