I went 2.73 to 3.55. At 65 my rpms are right at 2,000. If you are running 3.08s, you might want to consider 3.73s to get the most for your money. My parts + install came to $450.
I don't like underdrive pulleys because I have a sound system in my car. Underdrive pulleys take power away from things like the alternator and air conditioning. If I were to run my system in the rain (windsheild wipers) at a stop, my car would probably die. That and if you don't drive it frequently on decent length 'trips', you may run into low-charging issues.
Soooo...Here is what I say:
1) Gears - $ 500
2) MAC Cat-Back exhaust ($269 (includes shipping from
www.mustangwarehouse.com). You don't need to know what you are doing really. Just some simple instructions and maybe a friend who is semi-mechanically inclined. If not, pay no more than $50-75 to have this done!) This should also increase gas mileage. (Compliments future mods...)
3) New Air Filter ($70-170) + air intake silencer removal (free) You could do some sort of ghetto/custom 'PVC pipe to cone filter' installation with a K & N air filter. The alternative is a cold air intake. (BBK or MAC), not much better, but looks awesome in the engine bay.
Neither of thise will add significant HP, but increases pep, helps top end, and sounds cool. (Compliments future mods...)
4) New short throw shifter (150-170). There are about 3 different kinds which all rank pretty close, but Steeda Tri-Ax is my personal favorite. Makes your car more fun to drive and shifts are much shorter.
Total comes to about $ 989-1109....depending on which options you choose.
Thanks,
DoranW