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If you're diving into the world of car tuning or already a seasoned pro, picking the right car is all-important. Here are some of the coolest tuner cars to get your hands on, perfect for any category. From classic legends to wallet-friendly picks, we’ve got something for everyone.
The Best Ever Cars To Modify
1. Subaru WRX/STI
The Subaru WRX/STI stands out with its all-wheel-drive system and turbocharged engine, making it a solid choice for those new to tuning. There’s plenty of aftermarket support, so you won’t have trouble finding parts. You can tweak the performance and look, making the WRX/STI a flexible option.
Popular Subaru WRX upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Baer Brake Baer Tracker Kit, which improves bump steer.
Mishimoto performance radiator, for increased engine cooling efficiency.
Spyder Auto headlights and taillights, to customize the look of your ride.
Moroso air-oil separator kits, to aid in decreasing engine crankcase pressure.
DeatschWerks fuel injectors, for use when increasing horsepower.
2. Toyota Supra
The Toyota Supra is an icon in its own right, mainly because of its 2JZ-GTE engine, which can produce more horsepower. Its rear-wheel drive and balanced chassis are perfect for everything from drag racing to drifting. The Supra’s awesome design and huge support from the aftermarket scene make it a modder’s paradise.
Popular Toyota Supra upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Whiteline sway bars, which provide better cornering ability.
McLeod clutch kits for reduced slippage and improved performance.
Manley pistons, for increased horsepower.
AWE Exhaust & Tuning exhaust kits, for improved exhaust note and reduced backpressure.
Dinan aluminum wheel spacers, allowing custom wheel staggering and wheel/tire combinations.
3. Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is a favorite in the tuning world thanks to its affordability and the massive amount of aftermarket parts available. It’s lightweight, and engines like the B16 and D16 are super reliable, offering plenty of room to play around. The Civic is incredibly versatile whether you’re after performance upgrades or want to make it look cooler.
Popular Honda Civic upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Injen cold air intake systems, providing cooler, denser air for more power.
Wilwood brake upgrade and conversion kits, for improved stopping performance.
Ignition coils, which creates a stronger spark and increased ignition combustion.
Headlight assemblies allow you to create a unique look.
Struts and shocks, for increased handling ability.
4. Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is all about that lightweight, balanced feel, making it a hit for those who want to focus on handling. Its straightforward design means engine swaps and suspension upgrades are a breeze. Miata’s budget-friendly price and strong community support make it a consistent favorite.
Popular Mazda MX-5 Miata upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Sway bars and kits, to reduce body roll and increase traction.
Exhaust systems and components, to improve sound quality and exhaust flow, which increases power.
Brake pads, rotors, and kits, which increase stopping power.
Cold air intakes, for cooler denser air, resulting in more horsepower.
Oil breather tanks, which reduce crankcase pressure and improves power.
5. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
With its turbocharged 4G63 engine and all-wheel-drive system, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evo is built for speed and agility. Known for its rally roots, it’s excellent for handling and power mods. Its fierce look and tunability make it a must-have for performance lovers.
Popular Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Brake pads, rotors, and kits, which increase stopping power.
Oil cooler kits, for increased engine cooling and reduced oil lubrication breakdown.
Camshafts, for improved engine power and performance.
Silicone radiator hose kits, which provides long-lasting and leak-free performance as well as great looks.
Cold air intake kits, for cooler denser air, resulting in more horsepower.
6. Nissan 240SX
The Nissan 240SX is a tuner favorite thanks to its rear-wheel-drive layout and balanced design. Its KA24DE or SR20DET engines offer solid stock performance and are super modifiable. The 240SX is affordable and drift-friendly, making it a popular choice for tuners on a budget.
Popular Nissan 240SX upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Sway bars and kits, to reduce body roll and increase traction.
Brake pads, rotors, and kits, which increase stopping power.
Cold air intakes, for cooler denser air, resulting in more horsepower.
Aluminum radiators, for improved engine cooling performance.
Fuel injectors, a necessity when modifying the engine to make a lot more horsepower.
7. Ford Mustang
Who says American cars can’t be tuners? The Ford Mustang offers a pony car experience with modern amenities, making it easy and fun for anyone to jump in. Its V8 engine is just waiting for performance upgrades, and its simple mechanics mean it’s a breeze to work on. Plus, there are many resources and community support to help you along the way with your projects.
Popular Ford Mustang upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Headers, which improve exhaust flow and increase horsepower as well as enhance sound.
Cold air intake kits, for cooler denser air, resulting in more horsepower.
Exhaust systems and kits, increasing both exhaust flow and enhance engine sound.
Computer tuners and programmers, which help to maximize ignition and fuel delivery for additional power and performance.
Coil springs, providing improved handling and a lower stance.
8. Volkswagen Golf GTI
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a brilliant mix of practicality and performance, making it ideal for newbie tuners. Its turbocharged engine and front-wheel-drive layout offer a smooth driving experience, and the piles of aftermarket options mean you have a world of possibilities.
Popular Volkswagen Golf GTI upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Clutch kits, for improved shifting performance and less slippage when shifting gears.
Cold air intakes, for cooler denser air, resulting in more horsepower.
Struts and shocks, for increased handling ability.
Exhaust systems and kits, increasing both exhaust flow and enhance engine sound.
Brake pads, rotors, and kits, which increase stopping power.
9. BMW 3 Series (E36 and E46)
The BMW 3 Series (E36 and E46) is known for its balanced chassis and rear-wheel-drive layout. Popular for engine swaps, turbocharging, and suspension tuning, it has strong aftermarket support for performance and styling upgrades.
Popular BMW 3 Series upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Struts and shocks, for increased handling ability.
Cold air intake kits, for cooler denser air, resulting in more horsepower.
Exhaust systems and kits, increasing both exhaust flow and enhance engine sound.
Brake pads, rotors, hoses, and kits, which increase stopping power.
Taillights, providing a custom and unique look.
10. Nissan GT-R
The Nissan GT-R is a legendary sports car with all-wheel drive and a turbocharged engine. Known for its tuning potential and performance capabilities, it's popular for high-horsepower builds, aerodynamic mods, and suspension tuning.
Popular Nissan GT-R upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Sway bars and kits, to reduce body roll and increase traction.
Brake pads, rotors, and kits, which increase stopping power.
Nitrous systems, for instant power gains on demand.
Computer tuners and programmers, for improved power and performance.
Aluminum radiators, for improved engine cooling performance.
Best Tuner Cars For Beginners
1. Subaru WRX
The Subaru WRX stands out with its all-wheel-drive system and turbocharged engine, making it a solid choice for those new to tuning. There’s plenty of aftermarket support, so you won’t have trouble finding parts. You can tweak the performance and look, making the WRX a flexible option.
2. Volkswagen Golf GTI
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a brilliant mix of practicality and performance, making it ideal for newbie tuners. Its turbocharged engine and front-wheel-drive layout offer a smooth driving experience, and the piles of aftermarket options mean you have a world of possibilities.
3. Ford Mustang (S197)
The Ford Mustang offers a pony car experience with modern amenities, making it easy and fun for anyone to jump in. Its V8 engine is just waiting for performance upgrades, and its simple mechanics mean it’s a breeze to work on. Plus, there are many resources and community support to help you along the way with your projects.
Popular 2005-2013 Ford Mustang upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Ignition coils, which creates a stronger spark and increased ignition combustion.
Exhaust systems and kits, increasing both exhaust flow and enhance engine sound.
Cold air intake kits, for cooler denser air, resulting in more horsepower.
Computer tuners and programmers, which help to maximize ignition and fuel delivery for additional power and performance.
Sway bars and kits, to reduce body roll and increase traction.
4. Scion FR-S (Toyota 86/Subaru BRZ)
The Scion FR-S, aka the Toyota 86 or Subaru BRZ, is a lightweight sports car that’s perfect if you’re new to tuning. Its naturally aspirated engine and balanced chassis are a dream for mods. The car’s simplicity and budget-friendly price make it an ideal first project.
Popular Scion FR-S, Toyota 86, and Subaru BRZ upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Ignition coils, which creates a stronger spark and increased ignition combustion.
Clutch kits, for improved shifting performance and less slippage when shifting gears.
Exhaust systems and kits, increasing both exhaust flow and enhance engine sound.
Cold air intake kits, for cooler denser air, resulting in more horsepower.
Struts and shocks, for increased handling ability.
Best Tuner Cars Under $10K
1. Honda Civic (6th Gen)
The 6th gen Honda Civic is a classic choice if you’re tuning on a budget. It’s affordable and reliable, with many engine swap options and a huge aftermarket. Whether you want to boost performance or upgrade the style, this Civic gives you great bang for your buck.
Popular 1996-2000 Honda Civic upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Performance fuel pumps, providing additional fuel needed for performance engine modifications.
Brake pads, rotors, and kits, which increase stopping power.
Struts and shocks, for increased handling ability.
Performance seats, adding a custom look to the interior and providing increased comfort and safety.
Cold air intake kits, for cooler denser air, resulting in more horsepower.
2. Mazda RX-7 FC (2nd Gen)
The Mazda RX-7 FC is a rotary-powered gem you can snag for under $10k. Its lightweight design and rear-wheel-drive setup are perfect for tuners. You can turn the RX-7 FC into a high-performance beast with a little TLC. Plus, it’s got loads of attitude!
Popular 1986-1991 Mazda RX-7 upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Performance batteries, for reliable and consistent starting and power for electrical components.
Brake pads, rotors, and kits, which increase stopping power.
Performance seats, adding a custom look to the interior and providing increased comfort and safety.
Performance sway bars, struts, shocks, and bushings, to improve handling and cornering ability.
High-flow electric fans, providing improved engine cooling and performance.
3. Nissan 240SX
The Nissan 240SX is a tuner favorite thanks to its rear-wheel-drive layout and balanced design. Its KA24DE or SR20DET engines offer solid stock performance and are super modifiable. The 240SX is affordable and drift-friendly, making it a popular choice for tuners on a budget.
Roll cages, for improved safety and reduced body flex in racing applications.
Brake pads, rotors, and kits, which increase stopping power.
Clutch kits, for improved shifting performance and less slippage when shifting gears.
Aluminum radiators, for improved engine cooling performance.
Sway bars and kits, to reduce body roll and increase traction.
80s Tuner Cars
1. Nissan 300ZX (Z31)
The Nissan 300ZX Z31 is a turbocharged beauty from the 80s with excellent tuning potential. Its VG30ET engine can handle serious power boosts, and its retro look adds to its cool factor. The 300ZX Z31 is a top pick for anyone looking to tweak a classic 80s ride.
Popular Nissan 300ZX upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Aluminum radiators, for improved engine cooling performance.
Clutch kits, for improved shifting performance and less slippage when shifting gears.
Fuel injectors, a necessity when modifying the engine to make a lot more horsepower.
Performance struts and shocks, for increased handling ability.
Brake pads, rotors, and kits, which increase stopping power.
2. Ford Mustang Fox Body
The Ford Mustang Fox Body is an iconic 80s muscle car perfect for tuning. Its 5.0L V8 engine offers plenty of power and is easy to modify. The Fox Body’s affordability and huge fanbase make it a favorite for tuners.
Popular 1979-1993 Ford Mustang upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Performance spark plugs, spark plug wires, distributors, caps, and rotors, for improved spark and engine performance.
Headers, which improve exhaust flow and increase horsepower as well as enhance sound.
Control arms, providing increased handling and cornering performance.
Camshafts and kits, for increased engine performance and horsepower.
Ring and pinion gear sets, which provide improved acceleration and performance.
3. Toyota MR2
The Toyota MR2 is a mid-engine sports car from the 80s, known for its balanced handling and lightweight design. It's popular for engine swaps and suspension upgrades, making it a unique choice for tuning enthusiasts.
Popular Toyota MR2 upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Sway bars and kits, to reduce body roll and increase traction.
Clutch kits, for improved shifting performance and less slippage when shifting gears.
Brake pads, rotors, and kits, which increase stopping power.
Silicone radiator hose kits, which provides long-lasting and leak-free performance as well as great looks.
Performance air filters and cold air intakes, for increased airflow and cooler denser air, resulting in more horsepower.
90s Tuner Cars
1. Mazda RX-7 FD (Third Gen)
The Mazda RX-7 FD is a 90s legend known for its rotary engine and lightweight design. Its turbocharged 13B engine provides excellent performance and tuning potential. The RX-7 FD's sleek design and strong aftermarket support make it a tuner favorite.
Popular 1993-1995 Mazda RX-7 upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Performance batteries, for reliable and consistent starting and power for electrical components.
Custom wheels, which provide a unique and eye-catching look to your vehicle.
Brake pads, rotors, and kits, which increase stopping power.
Clutch kits, for improved shifting performance and less slippage when shifting gears.
Nitrous systems, for instant power gains on demand.
2. Acura Integra (DC2)
The Acura Integra DC2 is a popular 90s tuner car with a light, responsive design. Its B18C engine boasts great tuning potential, and its front-wheel-drive layout ensures a fun driving experience. The Integra DC2 is a flexible and affordable platform for mods.
Popular 1994-2001 Acura Integra upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Brake pads, rotors, and kits, which increase stopping power.
Performance seats, adding a custom look to the interior and providing increased comfort and safety.
Aluminum radiators, for improved engine cooling performance.
Struts and shocks, for increased handling ability.
Performance fuel pumps, providing additional fuel needed for performance engine modifications.
3. Subaru Impreza WRX
The Subaru Impreza WRX is a 90s rally legend featuring a turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system. Its EJ20 engine delivers strong performance and tuning potential, and its rally roots add to the fun. The Impreza WRX’s flexibility and supportive community make it a tuner favorite.
Early 2000s Tuner Cars
1. Honda S2000
The Honda S2000 is a beloved sports car from the early 2000s known for its high-revving engine and rear-wheel-drive layout. Its F20C/F22C engines are perfect for tuning, and its balanced chassis enhances its handling. The S2000’s slick design and tunability make it a go-to for enthusiasts.
Popular Honda S2000 upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Brake pads, rotors, and kits, which increase stopping power.
Cold air intakes, for cooler denser air, resulting in more horsepower.
Fuel injectors, a necessity when modifying the engine to make a lot more horsepower.
Sway bars, bushings, and kits, to reduce body roll and increase traction.
Engine connecting rod set, providing increased bottom-end strength for higher horsepower applications.
2. Nissan 350Z
The Nissan 350Z is a top early 2000s sports car with a powerful V6 engine and rear-wheel-drive layout. Its VQ35DE engine offers excellent performance and tuning potential, and its bold styling adds to the appeal. The 350Z is affordable and highly versatile, making it a superb tuner.
Popular Nissan 350Z upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Ignition coils, which creates a stronger spark and increased ignition combustion.
Brake pads, rotors, and kits, which increase stopping power.
Headlight assemblies allow you to create a unique look.
Nitrous systems, for instant power gains on demand.
Sway bars, bushings, links, and kits, to reduce body roll and increase traction.
3. BMW M3 (E46)
The BMW M3 E46 is an early 2000s gem with a muscular inline-six engine and rear-wheel-drive layout. Its S54 engine is perfect for tuning, and its balanced chassis improves handling. The E46 M3’s sleek looks and mod-friendly design make it a favorite among tuners.
Popular BMW M3 / E46 upgrades available from JEGS Include:
Headlight assemblies allow you to create a unique look.
Sway bars, links, and kits, to reduce body roll and increase traction.
Performance fuel pumps, providing additional fuel needed for performance engine modifications.
Silicone radiator hose kits, which provides long-lasting and leak-free performance as well as great looks.
Exhaust systems and kits, increasing both exhaust flow and enhance engine sound.
Tune Your Car With JEGS
Looking for the parts to get your tuner car street-ready? Look no further than JEGS! We've got everything you need, from engine parts to driveline components and power adders, whether you’re into drag racing, drifting, or enjoying the drive.
