The GM 3800 engine (L36, L67, L32, and derivatives) is one of the most popular platforms for budget-minded performance enthusiasts. Its iron block, robust bottom end, and easy-to-boost architecture make it a prime candidate for forced induction. While a supercharger swap is the classic route to big power on a 3800, the price of a complete kit can vary widely. This guide highlights five supercharger kits available for under $3,000 that deliver serious horsepower gains without requiring a second mortgage. Each kit has been selected based on proven dyno results, ease of installation, and overall value. Whether you own a Grand Prix GTP, a Regal GS, a Monte Carlo SS, or a Firebird with a 3800, these kits offer a reliable path to 350+ horsepower.

1. ZZP Stage 2 Supercharger Kit

ZZPerformance (ZZP) is the dominant aftermarket supplier for the 3800 platform, and their Stage 2 kit is a proven performer. Unlike entry-level kits that simply bolt on an M90 blower, the ZZP Stage 2 package includes an upgraded supercharger, custom tuning, and essential fuel system components. This kit is designed for owners who want a substantial power increase without upgrading injectors or altering the engine block.

  • Power Gains: 350–400 whp (depending on exhaust and intercooler setup)
  • Included Components: Gen V M90 supercharger with 3.4" pulley, 42 lb/hr injectors, ZZP 3-bar MAP sensor, and a USB cable for the HPTuners-compatible tune.
  • Installation Difficulty: Moderate – requires removing the stock blower and swapping the pulley; basic hand tools and a jack are sufficient.
  • Price: ~$2,800

What makes it compelling: The ZZP kit comes with a “canned” tune that is safe for pump gas (93 octane) and works with standard catalytic converters. Many owners report low 13-second quarter-mile times in a 3,800-lb car with a 4T65E-HD transmission. The Stage 2 also supports future upgrades like an intercooler or headers. For an extra $200, ZZP will include a 3.0" pulley and updated tune for those willing to run race fuel or meth injection.

2. Intense Racing Supercharger Kit

Intense Racing has long been a respected name in the 3800 community, known for their focus on reliability and drivability. Their supercharger kit is often chosen by owners who want a moderate boost that won’t stress the transmission or cooling system. Intense Racing’s engineering centers around maximizing efficiency from the Eaton M90 blower without pushing it to its limit.

  • Power Gains: 330–370 whp (conservative tune with standard pulley)
  • Included Components: Rebuilt Gen V M90 supercharger with billet coupler, Intense RACING 3.1" pulley, 36 lb/hr injectors, and a preloaded PCM with Intense’s Stage 2 calibration.
  • Installation Difficulty: Easy – similar to swapping a stock blower; all gaskets and hardware are included.
  • Price: ~$2,500

Why it stands out: The kit is tuned conservatively to minimize knock and heat soak, which is important for daily drivers. The PCM flash eliminates the need for a separate tuning device. Intense also offers optional intercooler spacers and heat exchanger upgrades that can be added later. Many enthusiasts report a smooth powerband with no low-RPM surging, making this a great choice for heavy sedans or station wagons.

3. DHP Supercharger Kit

Digital Horsepower (DHP) started as a tuning company and later introduced their own supercharger kit. The DHP kit is often overlooked but offers excellent value for those who want a complete package with tuning capability. The kit is engineered for the 3800 Series III (L32) but can be adapted to earlier motors with minor modifications.

  • Power Gains: 300–350 whp (conservative on 91 octane); 350+ whp with supporting mods
  • Included Components: DHP Stage 2 blower (Gen V case with custom rotors), 42 lb/hr injectors, Bosch 044 fuel pump (included as a drop-in), and DHP tuning software (including a preloaded base tune for HPTuners).
  • Installation Difficulty: Moderate – the fuel pump installation requires dropping the fuel tank or cutting an access panel, though many owners opt for a Walbro 255 instead.
  • Price: ~$2,300

Value proposition: The DHP kit is the cheapest on this list by a significant margin, yet it still includes a fresh blower and a custom fuel pump. The included tuning software allows users to tweak parameters like spark advance and fuel curves, making it ideal for builders who plan to test different pulley combinations or add an intercooler later. Downsides include the need for a laptop and some tuning knowledge, but the community provides ample support.

4. GMPP Supercharger Kit

General Motors Performance Parts (GMPP) offered a factory-engineered supercharger kit for the 3800 platform back in the early 2000s. Though no longer produced by GM, NOS kits and used versions still circulate on the market. Because GMPP kits were designed to pass emissions and retain factory drivability, they are a popular choice for enthusiasts who want a reliable, warranty-like solution.

  • Power Gains: 360–380 whp (with included PCM)
  • Included Components: Gen V M90 supercharger with cast aluminum inlet, GMPP-specific 3.0" pulley, 36 lb/hr injectors, and a reflashed PCM with factory-level driveability.
  • Installation Difficulty: Easy to moderate – genuine GM gaskets and factory instructions make it a bolt-in affair.
  • Price: ~$2,900 (if you can find a kit; used prices vary)

Key strengths: The GMPP calibration is exceptionally smooth, with no cold-start issues or surge. The kit includes an oil-catch can and unique vacuum routing to comply with OBD-II readiness. Because of the factory pedigree, resale value remains high. However, the injector size is small for those who want to push beyond 380 whp, so future upgrades may require injector swaps. GMPP kits were originally sold for F-body Firebirds and FWD W-body cars; confirm fitment before buying.

5. Comp Cams Supercharger Kit

Comp Cams is best known for camshafts, but their supercharger kit for the 3800 is a complete package that includes their own high-flow camshaft. This kit is designed for the serious builder who wants to extract maximum horsepower from the supercharged 3800 without switching to a turbo setup. The combination of a supercharger and a performance camshaft yields broad power gains across the entire rev range.

  • Power Gains: 380–410 whp (with proper tuning and exhaust)
  • Included Components: Supercharger (Gen V M90 or optional Magna Charger TVS for $500 more), Comp Cams 3800 camshaft (available in several grinds), valve springs, seals, injectors (42 lb/hr), and a tuning file.
  • Installation Difficulty: High – requires removing the front cover to install the camshaft; this is a major job that most owners pay a shop to perform.
  • Price: ~$3,000 (slightly over budget, but the camshaft alone costs $400, so the value is high)

Why consider it: The camshaft eliminates the mid-range torque dip that plagues stock 3800s with small blowers. This kit is ideal for a car that will see strip time as well as street use. The included springs support higher rev limits (up to 6,800 RPM) without valve float. Note that the price can exceed $3,000 if you choose the TVS upgrade, but the base M90 version stays under the limit and still makes impressive power.

Key Considerations Before Buying

Engine Compatibility

Most 3800 supercharger kits are designed for the L67 (Series II) or L32 (Series III). The L36 naturally aspirated engine has dished pistons and a lower compression ratio that is not ideal for boost without careful tuning. Verify your engine code. Kits for FWD applications (Grand Prix, Regal, Bonneville) may not fit RWD versions (Firebird) without modifications to the intake manifold and throttle body.

Fuel System Upgrades

All kits listed include larger injectors, but additional fuel pump support is not always included. The stock 3800 fuel pump can handle about 350 whp; beyond that, a Walbro 255 or similar pump is recommended. Some kits (like DHP) include a pump, but others expect you to buy one separately. Heat management is also critical: consider an intercooler or a methanol injection kit if you plan to push over 400 whp.

Tuning Requirements

All five kits require a recalibration of the ECU. Some provide a preloaded PCM (Intense, GMPP), while others supply a tune file for HPTuners (ZZP, DHP, Comp Cams). If you are not comfortable with tuning, choose a kit with a plug-and-play PCM. However, a dyno tune is always recommended for maximum safety and power. Expect to pay an additional $300–$500 for a professional tune session.

Transmission Capacity

The 4T65E-HD transmission in most FWD 3800 cars is the weak link. Stock units can fail above 400 whp. A shift kit, larger cooler, and a performance torque converter (e.g., 2800–3200 RPM stall) are smart upgrades when installing any of these kits. The 4L60E in F-body cars is slightly stronger, but still benefits from a cooler and shift kit.

Supporting Mods

To fully realize the power gains from any supercharger kit, plan on adding a free-flowing exhaust (2.5” dual or 3” single), headers or downpipe, and a cold air intake. Intercooling is highly recommended for sustained performance; even an inexpensive air-to-water heat exchanger can drop intake temps by 30–50°F, allowing more timing and less knock.

Final Thoughts

Building a 3800 on a budget is one of the most rewarding projects in the automotive hobby. Each of these five supercharger kits offers a proven path to 350+ horsepower for under $3,000. The ZZP Stage 2 is the most complete and user-friendly, while the Comp Cams kit is best for those wanting to combine boost with a cam upgrade. Intense and DHP provide excellent value for tight budgets, and the GMPP kit offers a factory-calibrated solution for purists. Whichever kit you choose, remember that proper supporting modifications, a good dyno tune, and a healthy transmission will make the difference between a fun daily driver and a towed project. Do your research, buy from reputable distributors, and enjoy the surge of boost that makes the 3800 such a legendary engine.

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