traction is easy. Call up a local rally team and see what they have for used tires. Most sets that are "used", are only half worn. Plenty of traction for rally-x. Power: well, you see what a 2.5 can do. nuff said And yes, one can be swapped into your rig with very little work...
Paint: one word: MAACO. Like I said LDR did that to Tulip, and it's held up a long time......
as for suspension, I'd recommend KYB's. Either the GR-2's or the AGX's. I'd go with the AGX's if you intend on autocrossing the car. If you stick to rally-x with the subie, the GR-2's will be more than adequate. (they are about the same stiffness as AGX's on the proper dirt setting) As for coils, find some OBS coils with low miles. It will get you a stiffer ride, and give you about 3/4" of lift.
Don't forget a skidplate and mudflaps!