The AW list: 10 best cars to modify

For many, a car right off the showroom floor just isn’t good enough. Luckily, there’s the aftermarket to help cars make more power, handle better and (sometimes) look better.

Below are AW’s picks for the 10 best new cars to modify. Some have been around and have good aftermarket chops; a few are new, but we know tuners are hard at work churning out parts as you read this.

BMW 3-series

Our take: From Alpina to Dinan to Korman, BMW tuners abound, ready to do just about anything you want to your 3-series. First, though, ditch the run-flats.

Ford Mustang

Our take: The Mustang is one of the most modified cars on the planet. With new, bolstered V6 and V8 engines from the factory, there’s less of a reason for underhood tweaks now. But plenty of bodywork is possible, and hey, don’t be afraid to bolt on something mechanical if the mood strikes you.

Chevrolet Corvette

Our take: The Corvette, America’s sports car, doesn’t need much help, but there are plenty of options for those who want to customize to taste.

Chevrolet Camaro

Our take: If the stock 304 hp isn’t good enough, several tuners offer kits to increase the 2010 Camaro’s horsepower. In fact, Hennessey has shoehorned the ZR1’s engine into one.

Honda Civic

Our take: The Civic Si’s high-revving 197 hp can be easily doubled by several tuners with forced induction. Suspension kits are also plentiful to enhance its reflexes.

Hyundai Genesis Coupe

Our take: Hyundai’s first crack at a rear-wheel coupe should offer a good canvas with the turbocharged four-cylinder. The Track trim adds Brembo brakes straight from the factory for a really good starting point.

Mazda MX-5 Miata

Our take: Few things are better than a cruise around the lake with the top down. But a stainless exhaust, headers and upgraded suspension parts can transform the Miata into respectable road-course warrior.

Mini Cooper

Our take: Not that it’s required, but plenty of companies boost the horsepower with superchargers and a sport exhaust. A great starting point.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

Our take: If 291 hp doesn’t cut it, then more power is easily unlocked with upgraded bolt-on parts and a remapped ECU. Combined with an unflappable chassis, telepathic steering response and all-wheel drive, you have a street car that’s hard to beat.

Subaru Impreza WRX/STI

Our take: Along with the Evolution, the Impreza WRX and STI have made their mark on the tuning world with their turbocharged all-wheel-drive setups. A 400-hp-plus Impreza is becoming more and more common, and it can be done rather affordably.

By null