Performance
 

I'm pretty sure there is 200 post about this question but I need a good thread and opinions on my monte.

I have a 2004 Monte Carlo Intimidator 160,000 on the dash, I blew the motor and burned out the transmission long story (I was 18 now 20) new motor has 140,145,00 on it. (Bonneville engine)

my question is let's say I have 10,000, what can I do to make my car a little faster. would it be better to work on the engine I already have (3.8 SC ) or do a crate? You guys have helped me before id be grateful if you could do it again. Thank you!

If you staying with a 3800 SC, check out this thread for some ideas:
https://montecarloforum.com/forum/fw...n-3800s-10942/

As for rebuilding the motor vs a crate motor, depends. You could probably find a lower miles motor for a better price than a crate motor.

A few things:
-I wouldn't suggest buying a crate engine for a 15 year old car. That's a lot of money, and you'll be left with one brand new component and the rest of the car at 160k miles.
-I also wouldn't go too crazy modding a 140k engine. Depending how it was treated, it might not last too long. Even stock and in good shape, you might only get another 50-75k out of it.
-I'd definitely consider your other options if you've got $10k in cash sitting around. There are a lot of good options with that kind of money - 4th Gen f body, gto, c5 vette, etc etc.

To get it back on the road again, I'd either just drop in that engine you've got or try to find a junkyard L36 with decent mileage. Toss on a cheap turbo kit if you get bored.
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