How Much Horsepower Does the Aam Competition 370z Turbo Kit Add?

The AAM Competition single-turbo conversion for the Nissan 370Z is one of the most sought-after aftermarket upgrades for enthusiasts who want to transform their VQ37VHR-powered coupe into a serious performance machine. While the stock 332-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 is no slouch, adding forced induction takes the platform to an entirely different level. The question that dominates every buyer’s mind is simple: exactly how much horsepower does the AAM Competition 370Z Turbo Kit add? The answer is not a single number — it depends on boost pressure, fuel choice, tuning strategy, and the supporting modifications you pair with the kit. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the horsepower gains you can expect, the factors that influence those numbers, and what it takes to achieve them safely and reliably.

Understanding Horsepower Gains from a Turbocharger

Before diving into specific figures, it is important to understand how a turbocharger creates horsepower. A turbo forces compressed air into the engine’s cylinders, allowing more fuel to be burned per cycle. The result is a significant increase in power output. However, the exact gain depends on the amount of boost pressure (measured in psi), the efficiency of the turbocharger, and the engine’s ability to handle the extra air and fuel. For the VQ37VHR engine found in the 370Z, the factory internals are robust, but there are limits.

The AAM Competition kit is designed to work within safe bounds while still delivering a substantial performance upgrade. Most owners report gains in the range of 150 to 200 wheel horsepower over a stock 370Z when running moderate boost on pump gas. To put that in perspective, a stock 370Z typically puts down around 280–290 horsepower at the wheels (assuming a 15% drivetrain loss). Adding 150–200 wheel horsepower yields between 430 and 490 wheel horsepower — a massive improvement that transforms the car’s acceleration and overall driving character.

AAM Competition 370Z Turbo Kit Overview

The AAM Competition single-turbo kit is engineered specifically for the VQ37VHR engine and designed to simplify installation while maximizing performance. The kit typically includes the following components:

Turbocharger: Usually a Precision or Garrett journal-bearing or ball-bearing turbo (often a 62mm or 65mm unit) matched to the engine’s displacement.
Cast or welded manifold: T304 stainless steel construction for durability and heat management.
Intercooler: Air-to-air intercooler with piping and silicone couplers to reduce intake air temperatures.
Downpipe: Mandrel-bent, often with a high-flow catalytic converter or test pipe option.
Wastegate: A quality external wastegate for precise boost control (e.g., Tial).
Blow-off valve: Plumbed or blow-through to prevent compressor surge.
Oil and coolant lines: Braided stainless lines with all necessary fittings.
Intake piping: With a high-flow air filter and mass airflow sensor housing.
Replacement ECU harness extensions and instructions.

The kit is offered in different variants depending on turbo size and whether you choose a journal-bearing or ball-bearing center section. Ball-bearing turbos spool faster and offer better transient response, while journal-bearing units are more cost-effective and durable at high boost levels.

Expected Horsepower Gains: Crank vs. Wheel

Manufacturers and tuners typically quote power at the wheels because that is what a dynamometer measures. The AAM kit’s advertised gain of 150–200 horsepower is at the wheels on a standard boost setting. To convert to crank horsepower, you typically add 10–15% drivetrain loss. A 450 whp car would therefore be making roughly 500–520 crank horsepower. Many owners have recorded dyno sheets showing 450–500 wheel horsepower on 93 octane pump gas at moderate boost (8–10 psi). Some push beyond that with race fuel or E85, eclipsing 550 whp.

Boost Pressure and Horsepower Correlation

As a general rule, you can expect roughly 10–12 horsepower per pound of boost on a VQ37VHR when everything is optimized. At 8 psi, you might gain 80–96 horsepower at the crank, but because the turbo reduces pumping losses and improves volumetric efficiency, actual gains are higher. The AAM kit’s typical 8–10 psi setting yields the stated 150–200 whp increase. If you turn up the boost to 12–14 psi with fuel system upgrades, gains can exceed 250 whp.

Fuel Type Matters

Higher octane fuel allows more boost and more advanced ignition timing. On 91 octane, you might see 450 whp. On 93 octane, 470–500 whp is common. Switching to E85 can push you past 550 whp because of its cooling effect and knock resistance. AAM Competition offers a flex-fuel tuning option for those who want E85 capability.

Factors That Influence Final Output

No two builds are identical. Even with the same turbo kit, power numbers vary due to several key variables:

Tuning: The most critical factor. A professional remote or in-person tune using EcuTek or UpRev is essential. The quality of the tune determines whether you get 450 whp or 400 whp on the same hardware.
Supporting modifications: An upgraded fuel pump (e.g., Walbro 450 or AEM 340), larger fuel injectors (usually 750 cc to 1050 cc), and a high-flow exhaust system are almost mandatory. Without them, the kit will be limited by fuel delivery.
Engine condition: A healthy engine with good compression and clean oil passages will tolerate boost better. High-mileage engines should be inspected before installation.
Altitude and ambient temperature: Denser air at sea level produces more power. Hot summer days reduce power compared to cool fall air.
Wastegate spring pressure: The base boost level is set by the wastegate spring. A typical kit ships with a 7 psi spring, but you can swap to a higher spring for more boost.
Drivetrain: Automatics and manuals both lose some power through their respective transmissions, but manuals usually show slightly higher wheel numbers.

Installation Process and Considerations

Installing the AAM Competition turbo kit is a significant mechanical project. While the kit is designed to be “bolt-on,” it still requires several days of work for an experienced mechanic. The following steps give an idea of the scope:

Remove the front bumper, radiator, and stock intake/exhaust components.
Disconnect the factory headers and catalytic converters.
Install the turbo manifold and mount the turbocharger.
Route oil feed and return lines. Tap the oil pan or use a pre-tapped pan.
Install the intercooler and all charge piping.
Mount the wastegate and blow-off valve.
Install the downpipe and reconnect the exhaust.
Reinstall intake components, including the mass airflow sensor.
Connect all electronic sensors and install the boost controller if used.
Fill with fresh oil and coolant, check for leaks, and begin tuning.

Professional installation is highly recommended unless you have extensive turbocharging experience. Many owners budget $1,500–$3,000 for labor. The kit itself costs between $5,500 and $7,000 depending on options. After installation, a tune will add $500–$1,000.

Common Installation Challenges

Oil pan clearance: The drain line fitting may require slight modification on some pans.
Intercooler fitment: Some couplers may need trimming if the car has aftermarket radiator or fan shroud.
Wastegate clearance: The wastegate can be tight against the frame rail; careful pipe routing is essential.
Heat management: The turbo sits close to the strut tower and brake master cylinder. Heat shielding or turbo blanket is recommended.

Tuning: The Key to Unlocking Horsepower

A turbo kit is only as good as its tune. The VQ37VHR engine uses a high-compression ratio (11.0:1), which limits the maximum safe boost on pump gas. Without proper tuning, detonation can destroy pistons. Two main tuning platforms exist:

EcuTek: The most popular choice for the 370Z. It allows full control over fuel, ignition, boost, and throttle mapping. Many professional tuners offer remote tuning via data logging.
UpRev: Another option that provides similar capabilities but is less commonly used for forced induction on VQs.

A specialized stand-alone engine management system (e.g., MoTeC, Haltech) is possible but adds significant cost and complexity. Most owners stick with EcuTek for its balance of features and ease of use. A custom street tune or dyno tune is vital. Off-the-shelf maps provided with some kits are only safe as starting points; final tuning should be performed by a professional.

Supporting Modifications for Optimal Gains

To achieve the full 150–200 whp gain — or to go beyond it — you need to upgrade supporting systems. Here is a checklist of recommended modifications:

Fuel system: Walbro 450 or 525 lph fuel pump, 750–1050 cc injectors (depending on power goals), and an auxiliary fuel pressure regulator if using E85.
Exhaust: A full 3-inch cat-back exhaust reduces backpressure. A test pipe or high-flow cat helps spool and power.
Intake: The kit comes with its own intake, but a larger air filter or intake pipe can help if you plan to exceed 500 whp.
Intercooler: The provided intercooler is adequate for 500–550 whp; for higher levels, a larger core or air-to-water system may be needed.
Oil cooling: An oil cooler is strongly advised, especially for track use, as turbocharged VQs generate more heat.
Clutch: If your car has a manual transmission and you plan to push over 450 whp, the stock clutch will slip. A heavy-duty single or twin-disc clutch is essential.
Cooling system: A lower-temperature thermostat and possibly a larger radiator help manage engine temperatures.
Drivetrain: Upgraded differential bushings and maybe a limited-slip diff help put the power down.

Real-World Dyno Results and Owner Experiences

Forums and Facebook groups are filled with 370Z owners who have dyno-tested their AAM turbo kits. Here are a few representative results (all at the wheels, on a Dynojet):

Stock 370Z 6-speed: 287 hp, 247 lb-ft.
Base AAM kit, 7.5 psi, 93 octane: 438 hp, 396 lb-ft.
AAM kit with injectors, fuel pump, cat-back, 9 psi, 93 octane: 479 hp, 428 lb-ft.
AAM kit, 11 psi, E85, full bolt-ons: 557 hp, 485 lb-ft.

One owner on The370Z.com posted a dyno graph showing 503 whp and 450 lb-ft on 10 psi with an upgraded fuel system. Another on MyG37.com (the G37 shares the same engine) recorded 465 whp on a conservative tune. These numbers confirm that the AAM kit delivers on its promises.

It is worth noting that dyno variations exist. A Dynojet typically reads higher than a Mustang dyno. Always compare numbers from the same dyno type.

Reliability and Longevity Considerations

Adding 150–200 horsepower creates additional stress on the engine. The VQ37VHR’s forged connecting rods and cast aluminum pistons are generally capable of handling up to 500–550 whp safely — provided the tune is correct and detonation is avoided. Beyond that level, you are on borrowed time without upgrading the pistons to forged units.

Common Issues to Monitor

Oil temperatures: Turbocharged VQs can exceed 250°F on track. An oil cooler is essential for sustained high-speed driving.
Fuel system limitations: The OEM fuel pump and injectors are insufficient for anything beyond base boost. Upgrading is mandatory.
Coolant flow: The turbo adds heat to the cooling system. Some owners add a larger radiator and a lower-temp thermostat.
Pre-ignition: Always use quality fuel; monitor knock via EcuTek logging.
Timing chain stretch: High-boost applications can accelerate chain wear. Replace timing chains and guides if they are original beyond 100,000 miles.

With proper maintenance and responsible boost levels, many AAM-equipped 370Zs have accumulated tens of thousands of miles without major issues. The key is not to push the boost too high without the proper fuel system and tuning.

Cost Analysis: Total Investment for a Turbocharged 370Z

Understanding the full cost of going turbo helps set realistic expectations. Below is a typical budget breakdown:

Item	Estimated Cost
AAM Competition Turbo Kit	$5,500–$7,000
Professional installation (labor)	$1,500–$3,000
Upgraded fuel pump and injectors	$700–$1,200
Clutch upgrade (if manual)	$800–$1,800
Oil cooler	$300–$600
Custom tune (EcuTek)	$500–$1,000
Wider tires/wheels (optional but recommended)	$1,500+
Total typical range	$10,000–$14,000

Prices vary by region and brand choices. Used kits can reduce costs but inspect carefully. This investment transforms the 370Z into a car that can run with modern sports cars costing far more.

Comparing AAM Competition to Other 370Z Turbo Kits

Several manufacturers produce turbo kits for the 370Z. How does the AAM kit compare? The two main competitors are the Stillen Supercharger and the GReddy Twin Turbo Kit. The Stillen supercharger offers instant throttle response but typically produces less peak horsepower (around 400–430 whp on pump gas) and generates more heat. The GReddy twin turbo kit is more expensive and more complex to install, but it can produce similar peak numbers. The AAM kit strikes a balance: it is simpler than twins, more powerful than a supercharger in the top end, and has a strong reputation for reliability and customer support. For those wanting a true turbo experience — lag, surge, and the rush of forced induction — the AAM single kit is a top choice.

Conclusion

The AAM Competition 370Z Turbo Kit adds 150 to 200 horsepower at the wheels in its standard configuration with a proper tune and supporting modifications. That gain lifts the 370Z from a respectable 300-hp coupe into a muscle car–killing machine that can challenge modern performance cars. The exact number depends on boost pressure, fuel, and the quality of the tuning and supporting parts. With careful planning and professional installation, the AAM turbo kit provides a proven path to 500+ horsepower that remains reliable for daily driving and occasional track use. If you are ready to unlock your 370Z’s true potential, this kit is one of the most effective and well-engineered options on the market.

For more details, visit the official AAM Competition website or read owner experiences on the The370Z.com forced induction forum. For a technical deep dive into turbocharging the VQ37VHR, check out this EngineLabs article.