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You may not need more power, but instead need to minimize power losses you might be suffering.
Do you know what you have and what is a reasonable baseline? What size engine, what carb, where are you driving, etc? Do you want more top end or more get off the line or what? Do you know why you want more power?
Without knowing all that, being sure the engine is in tune is probably cheapest. Fluid change, new plugs, wires, etc. If you carry extra unnecessary weight (books, lacross gear, etc), take it out. Be sure the tires are inflated properly and in alignment. Can probably do all that for under $150.
Washing and vacuuming my car, and changing the oil always seems to make it run stronger. Maybe it is just psychological, but it may work (enough) for you too.
Several aftermarket carbs are available, with multiple jets and settings to customize the setup for where you are and what you want. Free flowing exhausts can reduce power losses, and can combine with a new carb to reduce losses even more. Carb kits seem to start around $300 for a 34ICH, and go up from there. I found a properly jetted Weber 34ICH on eBay for $41, plus shipping, so they are occasionally out there. The 34ICH did not require a new manifold, 2 barrel carbs will if you don't have a 2bbl carb already. Depending on garage access/your parking situation, you might be able to install a carb in an afternoon. I think you'll need a garage to install an exhaust system. I think they start around $300 also.
How is your compression? May need an engine rebuild. If so, special cams, gear sets, and a lighter freewheel are available for different performance levels. If you don't have covered parking, I think most upgrades would need to wait as you'll pay a lot to have someone with the tools and space do them. There are a few places that will build you a much more powerful than stock engine for a not insignificant amount of $.
If you want a lot of power (much more than 80hp or so), it might be cheaper to get an older 100hp Civic and put some tuner parts on that. Easier to do, cheaper to find parts, and would be more in keeping with the spirit of each car IMO.
For links, try Chip Lamb at West of Sweden (in VA), Jack Ashcraft in OR (or WA), MSS (in NY I think). I am sure there are others, including local SAABers who can give you ideas and help out.
posted by 128.190.221...
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