Performance kinda doesnt come cheap or easy with these motors. You best bet may be do what i did. Realize that its not fast so it should atleast handle and look good. Hahaha. Look for some cheap mustang rims you like on craigslist maybe, clear corners, tail lights, tint the windows, just do some searching on here and you will see whats popoular and what to pass on. I also have a 97 so if you have any questions feel free to ask me and ill do my best to help you out.

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'97 xlt 2wd, regular cab, 4banger, auto.
Mods: 8k HIDs, clear corners with LEDs, 06+ tails modded to have 3 bulbs, third brake blinker mod with LEDs, billet grille, 4x4 valance, factory fog brackets, replica factory lights, airbox silencers removed, roll pan, 17" mustang rims with spacers, 5/7 drop, kenwood double din ddx318, alpine type-s 5x7, sony xplod 4ch, LED dome light, LED glove box light , 01 white face expo cluster and silver HVAC both LED, OHC...and more.