Sometimes, mods are necessary when you can no longer find original stuff or when you want efficiency or speed. I have done a number of performance mods on my NA (CAI, header, high flow cat, 2.25" exhaust, etc.), but only to increase efficiency. My '94 XR2 remains stock original because it is rare, but eventually, I may have to change some things to accomodate shortage.
Having said that, it's good to see people on this site like Russ, Joe, Josh, Jamie, et al, who push this car and motor to the limits. If no one does it, then the rest of us have no idea where to go to maintain status quo. It's sort of like the history of auto technology - the companies that build the best cars also race. Those that don't have a race agenda simply follow those that do in making improvements.
Anyway, that's my 2 cents. As for you Bob, you're eventually gonna get bit in the ass for the "pretty and reliable" comments - but I'll defend you if you need it.
