Auto Racing: Tranny swap?, speed conversions, rally edition

Question
I wanted a Mitsubishi Lancer OZ Rally Edition, they only had it in automatic. As of now I have a Weapon R Secret Weapon short ram intake, and a perf. muffler.

I have money and was wondering which would be more economical, time and money wise...

a. Buy a turbo

b. Convert to 5 speed trans., beef up clutch, CAI, piggy-back ecu prgm. etc...?

Answer
Mark-

  Well I'm terribly biased towards turbos to begin with.  an automatics isn't so bad with a computer reflash...unless you plan on auto-crossing the car.  A CAI and piggybacked ECU are all fine and good, but they won't give you much in the way of power.  Then again, if you had your heart set on a 5 speed it may give you more enjoyment until you can save up again for that turbo.  I will say that 5 speed conversions are extremely time consuming...but turbo kits aren't exactly a drop in install either.  Really it comes down to what you'd be happier with...a 5 speed and relatively stock power, or considerably more power but the automatic you didn't want.  Hope this helps.

Steve