Suggestions and advice for going turbo

[nightwalker]

I have researched for awhile now about going KA-T. There are two turbo kits that I have my sights set on. The Import-AutoPerformance kit, and the N-sport kit. I don't like the intercooler ends on the IAP kit, but I like equal length manifolds.

My confusion lies in this...

I am weighing the differences between the two manifolds. One is tubular, and equal length, while the other is cast. I am pretty hard on my car, drift, mountain roads, etc. Anyone have any experiences that they could share weighing the pros and cons of each.

I want quick boost, and am not looking for big power. Somewhere around 220 at the wheels. So I will keep it low. The car will mainly be used for the kind of driving I mentioned. Does the equal length manifold make that much of a difference? ...or will it die and crack because of my hard driving, and not last as long as a cast manifold?

Would I be better off piecing the kit together? If so, what are your favorite pieces from different kits, and manufacturers, and why?

Thanks in advance. Hoping for an informative post with experience involved.

[alan-n]

what is wrong with the intercooler ends on the iap kit? This is hidden by the bumper anyways.

As for spool up, the IAP uses 2" piping... the smaller the more responsive at the expense of ultimate top end power... though 2" piping is plenty good enough for 400rwhp, food for thought. And yes equal length manifold does make a difference, ask anyone who has upgraded from cast manifold and how spoolup is more responsive, you'd be surprised.

http://www.cardomain.com/id/cvn0605 for pics of IAP kit

[andrave]

the IAP manifold is awfully expensive compared to a log. for your modest HP goal I would say go with the cheaper log...