Of the countless types of modifications people do to their cars every year, only one positively affects every metric of performance while increasing fuel economy at the same time – reducing weight. Automotive engineers spend countless hours and dollars balancing safety with efficiency and affordability, but this typically leaves some weight-shedding available for those motivated enough to go the extra mile.

Take the Porsche 911 for example. There are many weight reduction options available right on the vehicle’s options list as well as on the aftermarket. Some of these options require deep pockets, but a lighter car is a better car in every way.

GT2 RS Weissach Package

Cost: $31,000

Weight Savings: 40lbs

If you’re considering buying a GT2 RS, chances are you’re either a driver who can benefit from every bit of weight saved, or you have pockets deep enough for it to not make a difference. Either way, the Weissach Package fills the car’s interior with carbon fiber, including the roof, steering wheel, shift paddles, and even the sway bars and their end links. Additionally, forged magnesium wheels shed 25 rotational pounds on their own.

Porsche Carbon Shell Bucket Seats

Cost: $5200

Weight Savings: 32lbs

Many modern cars are built with seats that feature technologies like heating, cooling, massaging, power adjustability, airbags, and more. While the GT3 RS forfeits most of these in the name of performance, there is still room for improvement. The Porsche Full Bucket Seats are built of a single carbon fiber tub trimmed in leather and Alcantara, resulting in a significant savings over even the sporty standard options.

Akrapovic Titanium Exhaust

Cost: $5900

Weight Savings: 10lbs

This is a rare instance where a part not only reduces weight, but improves horsepower output as well. Akrapovic claims a 19-horsepower gain while shedding 10lbs due to its titanium construction that makes it stronger than steel, but the weight of aluminum.

Porsche Carbon Ceramic Brakes

Cost: $8250

Weight Savings: 46lbs

Often seen as a necessity by serious track drivers, Porsche Carbon Ceramic Brakes offer a huge rotational weight savings, but the rotors can wear out quickly under track conditions. Normally that wouldn’t be a huge issue, but the carbon ceramic units cost a dizzying $20,000 to replace. The reduction in fade and unsprung weight is nice though, if you can swing it.

It of course depends on what your goals are with your car and what you’re willing to spend, but in terms of our 911 example, the ability to shed over 100lbs is nothing to scoff at. If you’re looking for the most effective way to improve your track car’s performance, look into shedding that unneeded weight first.