Well, some stuff is cheap. Like exhaust and a chip. An exhaust doesn't have to be $1000. Swap out that awful '90 resonator and the mufflers and you could have a free flowing, nice sounding exhaust for under $500 labor included. With a chip you may pick up 10-20hp in addition to having a more enjoyable car to drive (no CAGS, better fan control, etc)
The labor on the plenum and IH's is easy to do yourself, then send it off for porting anywhere from $1000-$2000. And it's a good chance to verify everything underneath is in good working order. Though it means your car will be down for a couple weeks.
Tell your buddy they don't dyno test the fender when determining the power output. That, or go show him what "240" hp can do.
