If they put $25k into an EVO and only got it into the high 12's, then they either spent their money foolishly or don't know how to tune. There are people putting EVOs deep into the 11's for only about $7k...
http://www.ultimate-racing.com/Produ...Index-US.shtml
As for XMODs weight, it is easy to reduce weight by gluing on the hood, getting rid of the screws that hold it in place, plus the plastic posts. You can also do that with the bumpers and sideskirts.