Mustang Parts On The Cheap

by Tom S Powers

You can't find high quality Mustang parts on a small budget--when somebody asks how fast you want to go, you need to remember that speed really does cost money. But beyond a certain point, you'll need lots of money to improve. At the high end, thousands of dollars can mean only a hair's breadth better performance.

But what if you don't want to race? What if you just want to have a little more oomph between stoplights, or even just keep your old ride on the road? What's available for the average guy or girl who just wants to stand out a little in a car that everyone loves?

The Mustang has catered to the tuning industry since it was first developed. Performance Mustang parts are even available from the manufacturer, Ford Motor Company. Also, accessories for the Mustang, ranging from chrome lock buttons to wheels, are easy to find.

Supercharger kits can be bought that will make wicked power gains for around $3000, at the cost of your warranty. However, with some headers and a new exhaust out of the Mustang parts bin, a few extra horsepower is obtainable, giving your car a much better sound and keeping the factory satisfied.

Wheels are a good place to start when you want to jazz up your car's personality. The tendency is to use larger wheels along with understated tires. They look a lot like a street racer but they're likely to run a bit rougher and louder than standard tires. That can be jarring when you're driving home after an exhausting day on the job. The good news is you can go with smaller wheels, fatter tires and higher sidewalls that will give you a smoother ride without have to skimp on your car's appearance.

Usually the last thing to cross someone's mind is car graphics. Not simply sponsor stickers that are present on race cars and that have recently become popular among street racers, but tribal patterns, flames, or even pinstriping reminiscent of the rockabilly days. Many variations are available for your specific year and model as a Mustang part. They are available in easy to remove vinyl sheets so that you can change them to suit your mood. They aren't a permanent commitment like a custom paint job, and they don't cost nearly as much.

Mustang parts that minimally increase a car's racing performance can cost thousands. Performance-quality Mustang Ford parts are available from the manufacturer. Mustang accessories like wheels and chrome door lock buttons are everywhere. For $3000 you can get a supercharger kit while losing your car warranty. However, if you dig around in the parts bin for some headers and a new exhaust, you can keep your warranty intact and boost your horsepower. Wheels and tires can also be customized and made bigger or smaller depending on an owner's personality. Car graphics that are less permanent and less costly than custom paint jobs can also dress up a car.

Published May 5th, 2008

Filed in Recreation