well, you keep saying the words "cheap" throughout, and I completely agree with you on this. I wouldnt even mind if the allowable modifications were even more restrictive (like no bump of half a point in compression, or porting half inch in, or even R tires). Wouldnt it be great if we all had to run toyo's or some such?
But, if removing a washer bottle cost's nothing, then doesnt it meet your criteria of "cheap"?
Also, I also really want your 25 year old car to still be competitive in it's class. Adjusting weights within each class would fix this (just like the pro classes do). This way, a 90's model could race with your fiesta, and both be somewhat equal in performance.
But, the lack of flexibility is hurting us here. Ask any business owner about flexibility. If you cannot adjust to the times, you will not succeed.
matt