Top 5 Supercharger Brands for the Nissan 370z: Which One Boosts Power Best?

Power Increase: Up to 550 horsepower at the crank
Key Features: Eaton TVS R1900 roots-type supercharger, cast aluminum manifold with integrated intercooler, CARB legal with EO number, full gasket and hardware kit included
Warranty: 3-year limited warranty

Edelbrock took a different approach with their 370Z kit, using an Eaton TVS R1900 positive-displacement supercharger instead of a centrifugal unit. This is a roots-type blower that sits directly on top of the engine. The result is instant boost response from low RPM, providing a power curve that feels like a much larger naturally aspirated engine. There is no waiting for boost to build; the torque is available immediately, making the car feel incredibly responsive in everyday driving. The Eaton TVS series is known for its efficiency and low heat generation compared to older roots designs, and Edelbrock pairs it with an integrated air-to-water intercooler cast into the intake manifold.

Installation is one of the simplest among supercharger kits because the blower mounts directly to the engine using the existing intake port locations. The kit includes all necessary gaskets, hardware, and a fuel system upgrade kit. Like Stillen, Edelbrock provides a CARB-legal calibration, so you retain emissions compliance. The power curve is different from centrifugal kits, with strong low-end and mid-range torque that tapers slightly at the very top. For street driving and autocross, this character is often preferred. The three-year warranty reflects the durability of the Eaton supercharger and the engineering quality of the kit. At 550 crank horsepower, it offers competitive peak numbers while delivering a unique driving feel.

Best for: Drivers who prioritize low-end torque and instant throttle response for street driving, and who want a straightforward installation with emissions compliance.

4. Jackson Racing Supercharger – Compact and Refined

Power Increase: Up to 400 wheel horsepower (approximately 470-480 at the crank)
Key Features: Centrifugal design with custom-cast mounting bracket, CARB legal, oil-less bearing system, integrated charge cooler
Warranty: 2-year limited warranty

Jackson Racing has built a reputation for producing supercharger kits that are elegant in their simplicity and engineering. Their 370Z kit is no exception. The system uses a compact centrifugal supercharger that is smaller and lighter than many competing units. Jackson Racing chose an oil-less bearing design, which eliminates the need for any oil lines or external lubrication system. This dramatically simplifies installation and reduces maintenance requirements. The mounting bracket is a beautifully cast piece of aluminum that positions the supercharger securely without interfering with other engine components.

Power output is more conservative than some of the bigger kits in this list, topping out around 400 wheel horsepower. However, the power delivery is exceptionally smooth, with linear boost progression that integrates seamlessly with the VVEL system. The included fuel system upgrades and base calibration are well-sorted, and the kit maintains excellent drivability. Jackson Racing prioritizes reliability and longevity, and this kit is known for being very gentle on the engine while still providing a meaningful performance increase. The two-year warranty is reasonable, and customer support from Jackson Racing is highly regarded in the community. This is not the kit for drag racing or chasing dyno records, but it is arguably the most refined and daily-driver-friendly option available.

Best for: Enthusiasts who value engineering refinement, reliability, and ease of installation over maximum peak power.

5. AAM Competition Supercharger Kit – The Power Junkie

Power Increase: Up to 650 wheel horsepower (over 700 at the crank) with full supporting modifications
Key Features: Large air-to-air intercooler, high-flow intake manifold, billet aluminum brackets, Requires custom tuning and fuel system upgrades
Warranty: 1-year limited warranty

AAM Competition builds kits for enthusiasts who are not satisfied with 400 or 500 horsepower. Their supercharger kit is designed to be the foundation for a high-horsepower build. It utilizes a large centrifugal supercharger head unit, typically a Vortech or ProCharger depending on the specific build configuration, paired with an oversized air-to-air intercooler and a custom intake manifold designed for high flow. The billet mounting brackets are robust and designed to handle the stress of high boost levels.

This is not a kit for beginners. It requires custom tuning, upgraded injectors, a high-flow fuel pump, and often a built engine to handle the power levels it is capable of producing. AAM Competition provides the hardware, but the final calibration is your responsibility. With proper supporting modifications, this kit can push the VQ37VHR to over 650 wheel horsepower, making the 370Z competitive with powerful modern supercars. The trade-off is reduced drivability at low speeds, increased heat management requirements, and a shorter component lifespan compared to lower-boost kits. The one-year warranty reflects the aggressive nature of the setup. This kit is for experienced builders who understand the demands of high-horsepower forced induction.

Best for: Enthusiasts building a dedicated high-horsepower street or track car and who have the budget and expertise to support a full build.

Comparing the Contenders: Key Differences at a Glance

Supporting Modifications You Cannot Skip

Installing a supercharger is not a standalone modification. To safely handle the additional power and heat, you need to upgrade several supporting systems. Regardless of which kit you choose, consider these essentials.

Fuel System Upgrades

Boost requires fuel. The stock fuel pump and injectors are insufficient for any supercharged application beyond low boost levels. Most kits include a fuel pump upgrade, but high-horsepower builds often require a full return-style fuel system with larger injectors and a boost-referenced fuel pressure regulator. Running lean under boost is the fastest way to damage your engine.

Cooling System Improvements

Forced induction generates significant heat. A supercharged 370Z benefits from an upgraded radiator, an oil cooler, and potentially an auxiliary transmission cooler if your car is automatic. High-quality intercooler fluid and a dedicated heat exchanger pump for air-to-water systems ensure consistent intake temperatures.

Clutch and Drivetrain

The stock clutch in the manual transmission 370Z is marginal for naturally aspirated power. With a supercharger, it will slip under hard acceleration. A heavy-duty clutch kit, and potentially a lightweight flywheel, are necessary upgrades. The rear differential bushings and axles should also be inspected and upgraded if you plan to drag race or track the car aggressively.

Exhaust System

A supercharger creates backpressure in the exhaust system. A high-flow cat-back exhaust and preferably long-tube headers allow the engine to breathe properly and maximize power gains. Many supercharger kits will not achieve their advertised power figures without a free-flowing exhaust.

Tuning: The Most Critical Step

No supercharger kit will perform correctly without proper tuning. Kits that include a base calibration, such as Stillen and Edelbrock, provide a safe starting point. However, every engine responds differently to boost. Variations in fuel quality, altitude, and engine condition mean that a dyno tune with a professional tuner is always beneficial. For kits from Vortech and AAM that do not include tuning, a custom calibration is mandatory. You will need a standalone ECU like a Haltech or Motec, or an ECU flash using software like UpRev or ECUTEK. Skimping on tuning is the most common mistake that leads to engine failure. Budget $1,000 to $2,000 for professional tuning services, including dyno time and street logging.

Installation Considerations: DIY or Professional?

Supercharger installation on the 370Z is an intensive project. Most kits require removing the front bumper, radiator, intake manifold, and various accessories. The process typically takes 15 to 30 hours for a first-time installer. While detailed instructions are provided, mechanical experience with engine disassembly and fuel system work is necessary. Mistakes during installation can lead to boost leaks, oil leaks, or component damage. If you are not confident in your abilities, paying a reputable shop $1,500 to $2,500 for installation is a worthwhile investment that ensures the kit is installed correctly the first time.

Cost Comparison and Value

Supercharger kits for the 370Z range in price from approximately $5,500 to $8,500 for the hardware alone. Installation, tuning, and supporting modifications can easily double that total investment. Here is a realistic budget breakdown for a complete supercharger build:

• Supercharger kit: $5,500 – $8,500
• Professional installation: $1,500 – $2,500
• Professional tuning: $1,000 – $2,000
• Clutch upgrade: $800 – $1,500
• Exhaust system (cat-back + headers): $1,500 – $3,000
• Cooling upgrades (radiator, oil cooler): $500 – $1,200
• Fuel system upgrades (if not included): $500 – $1,500

Total investment typically falls between $10,000 and $20,000. This is a significant commitment, but the transformation in performance is dramatic. A supercharged 370Z with 500 wheel horsepower can run with cars costing three times as much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a supercharger kill my 370Z engine?

Not if the system is properly installed and tuned. The VQ37VHR is a robust engine and can handle moderate boost levels reliably for many miles. The key is maintaining proper fuel delivery, managing heat, and not exceeding safe boost thresholds. Kits that run 6-8 psi on a safe tune have proven longevity. Pushing beyond 10 psi on a stock engine is where reliability risks increase significantly.

Can I pass emissions with a supercharger?

Yes, if you choose a CARB-legal kit. Stillen and Edelbrock both have CARB Executive Orders for their 370Z kits, meaning they are legal in all states that follow California emissions standards. Other kits may not be emissions-legal, so check your local regulations carefully before purchasing.

Which supercharger is the quietest?

The Edelbrock roots-type blower produces a distinctive whine that is more pronounced at low RPM but less intrusive than the high-pitched scream of a centrifugal supercharger at high RPM. For the most discreet setup, the Jackson Racing kit is known for being very quiet, as the compact centrifugal unit and oil-less bearing system minimize noise.

How much maintenance does a supercharged 370Z require?

Superchargers require periodic maintenance. Centrifugal units need belt inspections and potential replacement every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. The supercharger oil in units with oil systems should be changed at similar intervals. Roots-type blowers like the Eaton TVS are generally maintenance-free for the supercharger unit itself. Overall, the engine maintenance schedule remains similar to stock, but you should check boost levels and listen for unusual noises regularly.

Final Verdict: Matching the Supercharger to Your Goal

There is no single best supercharger for the Nissan 370Z. The right choice depends entirely on how you use the car and what you want from it.

If you want a complete, street-legal daily driver with proven reliability and a factory-like feel, Stillen remains the benchmark. If you prioritize low-end torque and instant response, Edelbrock offers a unique driving experience that is hard to beat on the street. For the enthusiast who values engineering refinement and simplicity Jackson Racing delivers a beautifully executed kit. If your goal is to build a high-horsepower monster and you have the budget for supporting modifications and professional tuning, Vortech provides the foundation for serious power. Finally, if only the highest numbers will satisfy you and you are building a dedicated performance machine, AAM Competition offers the most aggressive path.

For more detailed technical information on each kit, visit the official manufacturer websites. Stillen’s official product page provides comprehensive documentation. Vortech’s engineering resources explain their head unit technology in depth. Edelbrock offers installation guides and tuning support. The 370Z owner community forums are an invaluable resource for real-world experiences and build threads. Choosing carefully and building smartly will reward you with a Nissan 370Z that delivers an unforgettable driving experience every time you get behind the wheel.