i wanted to update after the install. the bigger ford max battery definitely feels better and sounds like quicker starting. it also eliminated my corrosion problem on the negative terminal. that was caused by cracking near the terminal.
i also updated the rear trans mount to the newer style and left the front mount installed. the car feels about 75% better on the 1-2 shift and probably 90% better on the 2-3 shift. i have noticed no additional NVH. i decided to go this route instead of the Southside Machine Performance mounts that everyone else is using due to warranty concerns as well as i didnt want to add any NVH and i dont really ever hit the strip. mainly just around town fun and some long trips here and there.
this was a very cheap upgrade, around $50 for the mount and maybe 30min to install.