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The Nissan 350Z is a beloved sports car that has captured the hearts of enthusiasts around the world. With its sleek design and powerful VQ35DE engine, it offers a fantastic platform for performance modifications. In this article, we will take you through a comprehensive step-by-step mod list that can transform your stock 350Z into a beast producing 450 wheel horsepower (whp). We will also share dyno results to illustrate the effectiveness of each modification.
Understanding the VQ35DE Engine
The VQ35DE engine is a 3.5-liter V6 that is known for its durability and performance potential. It features an aluminum alloy block and DOHC design, making it lightweight and efficient. Before diving into modifications, it’s essential to understand the engine’s capabilities and limitations.
Initial Dyno Run: Stock Performance
Before making any modifications, it’s crucial to establish a baseline for your vehicle’s performance. A stock 350Z typically produces around 280 whp. We conducted a dyno run to confirm our baseline numbers:
- Stock Horsepower: 280 whp
- Torque: 260 lb-ft
Step 1: Intake Modifications
The first step in our mod list is upgrading the intake system. A high-performance intake will improve airflow to the engine, resulting in better performance. We chose a cold air intake for this purpose.
- Installed: Cold Air Intake System
- Estimated Gains: 10-15 whp
After this modification, we returned to the dyno for another run:
- New Horsepower: 290 whp
- Torque: 265 lb-ft
Step 2: Exhaust System Upgrade
Next, we focused on the exhaust system. A performance cat-back exhaust system enhances exhaust flow and sound. We opted for a full cat-back exhaust system.
- Installed: Cat-Back Exhaust System
- Estimated Gains: 15-20 whp
Following the exhaust upgrade, we hit the dyno again:
- New Horsepower: 310 whp
- Torque: 270 lb-ft
Step 3: ECU Tune
To maximize the gains from our intake and exhaust modifications, we needed an ECU tune. A proper tune adjusts the engine parameters to optimize performance.
- Installed: ECU Tune
- Estimated Gains: 20-25 whp
After tuning, we returned to the dyno:
- New Horsepower: 335 whp
- Torque: 280 lb-ft
Step 4: Headers Installation
Next, we upgraded the exhaust headers. Performance headers reduce back pressure and improve exhaust flow, further enhancing power output.
- Installed: Long Tube Headers
- Estimated Gains: 15-20 whp
After installing the headers, we conducted another dyno run:
- New Horsepower: 355 whp
- Torque: 290 lb-ft
Step 5: High-Performance Fuel System
With the increased airflow, we needed to ensure the fuel system could keep up. Upgrading the fuel injectors and fuel pump was essential for achieving our horsepower goals.
- Installed: Upgraded Fuel Injectors & Fuel Pump
- Estimated Gains: 10-15 whp
After these modifications, we returned to the dyno:
- New Horsepower: 370 whp
- Torque: 300 lb-ft
Step 6: Forced Induction
To achieve our goal of 450 whp, we turned to forced induction. A supercharger or turbocharger is necessary for significantly increasing horsepower. We opted for a supercharger kit.
- Installed: Supercharger Kit
- Estimated Gains: 80-100 whp
After this monumental upgrade, we hit the dyno once more:
- New Horsepower: 450 whp
- Torque: 400 lb-ft
Final Thoughts and Considerations
Through this step-by-step mod list, we successfully transformed a stock 350Z into a 450 whp powerhouse. Each modification contributed to improved performance, showcasing the potential of the VQ35DE engine. Remember, while performance upgrades can be exciting, always ensure your vehicle is maintained properly and consider the implications of increased power on reliability and drivability.
Mod Summary
- Cold Air Intake: 290 whp
- Cat-Back Exhaust: 310 whp
- ECU Tune: 335 whp
- Long Tube Headers: 355 whp
- Upgraded Fuel System: 370 whp
- Supercharger: 450 whp
With these modifications, you can enjoy the thrill of driving a highly tuned 350Z. Each step in this journey not only enhances performance but also deepens your understanding of automotive engineering.