Need to boost performance

OK, so here's the story. Last year I bought Jordanvraptor's 2000 red GT from Damerow Ford in Beaverton. I got a pretty good deal, but that's beside the point. This year I bought a 2000 GT 'Vert from Vancouver Ford, I don't recommend going there, but anyways. Comparing the two cars, the red GT seemed to be more powerful. It would take off the line quicker, and seem to have more low-end power. What can I do to the 'vert to get it to go a little better? It is completely stock, would a K&N intake help it a little? The only real difference between the two was the red GT had "Installed B & M Transmission cooler 24,000 gvw model," "Installed K & N air filter," and "Maximum Motorsports Full length subframe connectors installed."

Any Help would be appreciated.

P.S. I would like to go as cheap as possible right now.
Thanks-Dan----KEEP THE PEACE

I don't think you guys are getting accurate reads at PIR. When I went back home to Iowa last year, I took it (the red GT) out on an almost brand new Nascar track I helped build and got a 14.2 in 1/4. Anyway, I want to do something to help my car. Thanks, Dan.

PS. It is an AUTOMATIC.