What is the limit of the motor/trans?

ballhawkdawk · 10-01-2009, 01:40 PM

I tried searching since I'm sure this has come up before, but I couldn't find anything specifically asking about this. I was curious as to the HP/TQ limit of the motor and transmission.

Here's my scenario. I had a son 10 months ago when all I had was a 2000 WS6 with a cam, full exhaust, nitrous, and a few other supporting mods. I bought a TrailBlazer SS as the 'family car', but had to get rid of the WS6 recently because it's just not practical for me right now to have two nice vehicles, and 4 doors is a must, so the Trans Am had to go. My dilemma now is whether I should stick with the TBSS (ancient 4-speed transmission, fat biyatch), get a G8 GT (also heavy, no AWD, no nav/DVD screen, and it's the most expensive option), or get a 2009/2010 WRX (questionable power limit).

My main concern is it doesn't seem like many people here are over 350 WHP in their 08/09 WRXs. Is it difficult to attain such a power level out of these cars without having to build up the motor and transmission? Any help would be appreciated.

newtothegame · 10-01-2009, 01:57 PM

If you are looking at the newer ones, thats the issue, its new, new layout means it needs new parts designed for it. There isnt much room for a much bigger turbo on the 08 WRX. Although the 09 does come with a slightly more capable turbo from the factory. I have had my 07 at 326 AWHP 319 AWTQ for almost 2 months, stock engine, and tranny, no issues yet. But I know I have a good tune and I know the limitations of my car. If you are looking for power and relability then you should look at the 08/09 STI instead. They have more options and more parts for them from what I have read.

ballhawkdawk · 10-01-2009, 02:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by newtothegame

If you are looking for power and relability then you should look at the 08/09 STI instead. They have more options and more parts for them from what I have read.

I don't like the hatch style. They should make an STi sedan.

mosc · 10-01-2009, 03:11 PM

They did... from 2004 to 2007

ballhawkdawk · 10-01-2009, 03:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mosc

They did... from 2004 to 2007

Bah. You know what I mean. Not sure why they stopped.

turmic · 10-01-2009, 10:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ballhawkdawk

Bah. You know what I mean. Not sure why they stopped.

They changed it for WRC....then in 08 dropped out of WRC.

08-09 STI uses the old layout in the turbo and TMIC. So, you can pretty easily get 350+. But, I've been told from my tuner that the 08-09s will throw a bearing or blow a piston pretty easily once over the 350 whp mark. So, they'd suggest doing at least a simple built engine. New CP pistons, eagle rods, and APR studs. If not CP pistons...the Alloy or whatever the stronger non-forged pistons are.

synolimit · 10-05-2009, 08:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by turmic

They changed it for WRC....then in 08 dropped out of WRC.

08-09 STI uses the old layout in the turbo and TMIC. So, you can pretty easily get 350+. But, I've been told from my tuner that the 08-09s will throw a bearing or blow a piston pretty easily once over the 350 whp mark. So, they'd suggest doing at least a simple built engine. New CP pistons, eagle rods, and APR studs. If not CP pistons...the Alloy or whatever the stronger non-forged pistons are.

09 wrx motor is the same as the sti no? when im done im gonna be near 350 maybe, fingers crossed. wonder if ill throw a bearing or blow a piston

turmic · 10-08-2009, 08:39 PM

Eh...It should still be a EJ255 in the WRX and EJ257 in the STI just like previous years. Unless they've changed that. Different cams, lowered compression, and a few other odds and ends.