So-Cal Chrysler 300M - Performance Trends
Los Angeles Auto Show PreludeWhen the Los Angeles Auto Show promoters decided to build a car to demonstrate the viability of aftermarket parts fitted to newer cars, they had no idea how well it would turn out.
The task of building the car fell to Scott Webb, aftermarket and motorsport manager for the Los Angeles Auto Show. His starting point was a '97 Honda Prelude powered by a DOHC V-TEC four-cylinder. His motivation was simple: Increase awareness of aftermarket parts manufacturers who display each year at the show.
Webb's main objective was to make the car handle and look better than stock. To this end, he added an Intrax ARS suspension system composed of shorter (131/44 inches lower than stock), higher-rate springs, and adjustable Proflex shocks. To stiffen the front end, Webb installed a Neuspeed strut tower tiebar. For rolling stock, he chose 225/40ZR18 Toyo Proxes T1 Plus tires, and he took a unique approach by fitting different model wheels to each side of the vehicle, giving the car a different look on each side. The passenger side has CEC Wheels Type 239 multi-spoke models, and the driver side is fitted with CEC's Type 169 wheels that feature seven D-shaped holes.
The results were quite impressive on the handling course. The slalom speed increased from the stock 66.2 mph to a screaming 69.0 mph. On the skidpad, the modified Prelude pulled 0.96 g compared to 0.84 for a stock vehicle (much better than a Corvette). The LA Auto Show car halted from 60 mph in 121 feet versus the stock car's 137 feet. This can be attributed to the addition of 13-inch Baer Claw brakes up front that Webb says bolted on in two hours and fit perfectly right out of the box. The stock rear brakes and ABS were retained.
In the horsepower department, Webb added a Remus high-flow exhaust system from CEC and a Neuspeed ceramic-coated exhaust header. In acceleration tests, the modified Prelude (which had loads of miles on it when Webb received it from Honda) ran about the same as a stock vehicle. In modified form, it ran 60 mph in 7.2 seconds and finished the quarter mile in 15.6 seconds at 92.2 mph.
Besides the lower stance, other image enhancements include a carbon-kevlar dash kit from Nu-Dash, IPF driving lights, graphics by Modern Image, and an in-dash, hideaway Alpine audio and navigation system.
The LA Auto Show Prelude proves that, not only is it possible to modify a three-year-old car, but that the aftermarket parts can make it look and perform better. Check out the LA Auto Show Web site for the complete story at www.laautoshow.com.