Best option to get more HP from ST202 (excl buying GT-Four), tl;dr: Like my ST202, want more HP, willing to spend 2-3k EUR. Options

[nerevar]

I've had my car for a few years now and I really like it. I also know all its faults and I did quite a lot of work on it (repaint, interior etc.). However, the car is way too slow, be it just 170 HP or the horses that died since it was new. I think something around 250 HP should be enough to give it a bit more ooomph for a few more years (and avoid being chased by vans on the highway).

There are very few LHD GT-Fours in continental Europe so buying one is out of the question. I'm also not buying a different car because anything I'd like is in the 15k-20k EUR range. And I'm not willing to spend that much on a car with all the new issues that it'll bring.

So I'm willing to spend another 2-3k EUR to get more HP from te current car. What is the best option? Getting a 3SGTE, boosting the current engine, something else?

If I get 3SGTE, how much work is the swap? Since most engines are from RHD cars, are there any complications installing it into LHD?

[Box]

Here's an article on modifying your engine: http://www.roadandtrack.net.au/images/stor...urbo_engine.pdf

Here's one on swapping from a 5S-FE to a 3S-GTE, I'd imagine 3S-GE to 3S-GTE would be even simpler: http://www.6gc.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=82196

170 hp in a 2,500-2,600 pound car should feel fairly spirited, so first thing would be to make sure the engine is healthy by running compression and leak down tests and then you'll have a better idea on where you stand. Last time I looked it was around $3,000 USD for the 3S-GTE, ECU, and harness which prices could be higher or lower in your area. If the engine you have is healthy and running optimally you'll probably only be happy with the power the 3S-GTE can readily deliver.