[Infinitrium]

Bad timing very well could make that much of a difference. I'm not sure what the timing is set at the factory for the 96's, but I suggest setting it at 7-8 degrees and see how it goes. Hopefully this'll make it run a lot better. It sounds as if you're mechanically inclined, so if you're willing to splurge a bit, get a performance cam and cam gear from 3techperformance, or the head package (rebuilt head plus your choice of cam) then follow it up with the cam gear and the underdrive pulley, and a larger than stock exhaust if money isn't a concern. . Those would set you back probably 500 not counting the exhaust but that sure would give your Metro a kick in the balls, and would probably help fuel economy a bit too since you wouldn't be flooring it to keep up with traffic.