i'm not sure how you can be sure how much money you have left for mods when you aren't sure what's wrong with the car right now

 

get it running rite first..

 

I must have missed it. What year and how many miles? I am guessing that you didn't get any maintenance records with it, so I would start with a complete fluid change and brake system check.

Then I would look at the ignition and don't skimp and replace the opti with a cheap piece of crap off eBay. Go with a genuine Delco unit. Replace the water pump while you have it apart for the opti.

Don't forget to check all of the suspension pieces, ball joints, steering linkages, and bushings. Replace anything that is worn and your car will handle like new.

 

I have a 95 six speed.

 

cold air intake, headers and a good cat back exhaust will use up most of the 2500. pick up some drilled and slotted rotors and some ceramic brake pads. while your doing them check out the calipers to make sure they are not leaking.