Table of Contents
The Nissan 370Z is a sports car that has garnered a loyal following due to its impressive performance and handling capabilities. However, for enthusiasts looking to take their driving experience to the next level, advanced suspension upgrades can significantly enhance handling and cornering performance. In this article, we will explore various suspension upgrades available for the Nissan 370Z, their benefits, and how they can transform your driving experience.
Understanding Suspension Systems
Before diving into specific upgrades, it’s essential to understand the basics of suspension systems. The suspension in a vehicle plays a critical role in handling, ride comfort, and overall stability. It consists of various components, including springs, shock absorbers, sway bars, and control arms, all working together to maintain tire contact with the road.
Types of Suspension Upgrades
There are several types of suspension upgrades available for the Nissan 370Z, each designed to improve specific aspects of handling and performance. Below are some of the most popular options:
- Coilovers: Adjustable coilover kits allow for customization of ride height and damping settings, providing better handling and a sportier stance.
- Anti-Roll Bars: Upgrading to stiffer sway bars reduces body roll during cornering, enhancing stability and cornering performance.
- Performance Shocks: High-performance shock absorbers improve response and control, allowing for better handling on both the street and the track.
- Control Arms: Upgraded control arms can provide improved geometry and adjustability, enhancing alignment and handling characteristics.
- Strut Braces: Installing strut braces increases chassis rigidity, reducing flex during aggressive driving.
Coilover Kits
Coilover kits are one of the most popular suspension upgrades for the Nissan 370Z. These kits replace the factory shock and spring assembly with a combined unit that allows for height adjustment and damping control. Benefits of coilovers include:
- Adjustable Ride Height: Lowering the vehicle’s center of gravity improves handling and reduces body roll.
- Custom Damping Settings: Fine-tune the suspension to match driving style and road conditions.
- Improved Aesthetics: A lowered stance enhances the visual appeal of the 370Z.
Popular coilover brands for the 370Z include BC Racing, KW Suspension, and Fortune Auto, each offering different features and price points to suit various needs.
Anti-Roll Bars
Anti-roll bars, or sway bars, are designed to reduce body roll during cornering. Upgrading to stiffer sway bars can dramatically improve cornering performance and stability. Here are some benefits:
- Reduced Body Roll: Stiffer bars keep the vehicle flatter in corners, allowing for better tire contact with the road.
- Improved Cornering Speed: Enhanced stability allows drivers to take corners faster without losing grip.
- Adjustable Options: Some aftermarket sway bars offer adjustable settings for personalized tuning.
Brands such as Whiteline and Eibach provide high-quality sway bars specifically designed for the Nissan 370Z, ensuring optimal performance.
Performance Shocks
Performance shocks are crucial for enhancing the overall handling characteristics of the 370Z. These shocks are designed to provide better damping control and responsiveness. Key benefits include:
- Improved Responsiveness: Performance shocks react quickly to changes in road conditions, providing better control.
- Enhanced Comfort: Better damping can lead to a more comfortable ride without sacrificing performance.
- Increased Stability: Enhanced control during acceleration, braking, and cornering improves overall stability.
Popular brands for performance shocks include Bilstein, KONI, and Tokico, each offering various options tailored for the Nissan 370Z.
Control Arms
Upgrading control arms can significantly improve handling by enhancing the suspension geometry and providing adjustability. Benefits of upgraded control arms include:
- Improved Alignment: Adjustable control arms allow for better alignment settings, optimizing tire wear and handling.
- Increased Camber Adjustment: Fine-tuning camber angles enhances grip during cornering.
- Durability: Aftermarket control arms are often made from stronger materials, increasing longevity.
Brands like SPL Parts and Fortune Auto offer high-performance control arms specifically designed for the 370Z, catering to both street and track applications.
Strut Braces
Strut braces are a simple yet effective upgrade that enhances chassis rigidity. By connecting the strut towers, these braces reduce flex during aggressive driving. Key advantages include:
- Increased Chassis Rigidity: Reduces flex, improving handling and steering response.
- Improved Steering Feel: A more rigid chassis provides better feedback from the road.
- Easy Installation: Most strut braces are easy to install and can be done with basic tools.
Popular strut brace options for the Nissan 370Z include those from Cusco and Nismo, known for their quality and performance.
Conclusion
Advanced suspension upgrades for the Nissan 370Z can dramatically improve handling and cornering performance, making the driving experience more enjoyable and engaging. Whether you choose coilovers, anti-roll bars, performance shocks, control arms, or strut braces, each upgrade contributes to a more responsive and stable vehicle. By investing in these upgrades, you can elevate your Nissan 370Z to new heights of performance, ensuring that every drive is a thrilling experience.