The Nissan 370Z is one of the most popular and iconic sports cars of the past decade. With its sleek styling and powerful V6 engine, it's easy to see why the 370Z has amassed such a loyal following. Many 370Z enthusiasts are interested in turbocharging their vehicles to take performance to the next level. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about turbocharging your Nissan 370Z.
When it comes to choosing the best turbo kits for the Nissan Z34, we chose some of the best turbo kits available. Each kit offers massive power gains, quality components, reliability, and fully comprehensive supporting mods. Both twin turbo and single turbo options made the cut, using top-brand turbochargers and upgraded fuel, oil, exhaust, and tuning systems proven to safely deliver dramatic horsepower increases. Only kits we evaluated as offering great value with reputations for quality, easy installs, and extreme real-world performance potential made our list so you can rest assured knowing that these are OEM quality kits you’re considering.
The GReddy Twin Turbo Kit turns the 370Z into an absolute beast. This complete stage 2 forced induction system is specially engineered for 2009+ Nissan 370Z models. It packs a punch with a pair of TD05H 18G turbochargers and Type-S external wastegates. Custom stainless steel manifolds and a large front-mount intercooler provide the supporting mods to deliver a hurricane of power. A pre-programmed EcuTek ECU ensures everything runs in perfect harmony. With the GReddy kit, 370Z owners can reliably generate 100-150 more intense wheel horsepower on otherwise stock engines. The components are integrated for factory-quality fitment and hassle-free installation. If you're looking to seriously boost your 370Z's performance without piecing together a hodgepodge system, the GReddy Twin Turbo Kit is an excellent option.
The Soho Motorsports Single Turbo Kit packs a single turbo punch from its innovative top mount design. As the first reverse rotation single turbo system developed for the 370Z’s VQ37VHR engine, it set the bar high. The Garrett GTX3576R turbocharger, Turbosmart wastegate, and Injector Dynamics 1050x injectors deliver brute force up to 500+ horsepower. The kit stays sturdy under pressure with reinforced silicone couplers and billet aluminum fittings throughout the Vibrant stainless steel piping. With a factory-style fitment, the Soho single turbo kit installs smoothly for big turbo power gains in the 370Z. If you want monstrous turbocharged output without the complexity of a twin setup, the Soho Motorsports kit is a premier single turbo solution.
AAM Competition broke new ground with their 370Z Twin Turbocharger System. It takes forced induction to the next level by utilizing innovative BorgWarner EFR turbochargers for instant throttle response and 500+ HP each. The OEM-quality stainless steel manifolds and motorsport-grade oil and coolant lines handle the output reliably. A large vertical flow intercooler and polished aluminum intake piping maximize airflow. With up to 700+ wheel horsepower potential, this system will thrill in both stock and highly built engines exceeding 850HP. The combination of cutting-edge performance and robust engineering cements AAM's Twin Turbo Charger System as the new benchmark in 370Z turbo kits.
The extensively engineered Fast Intentions Twin Turbo Kit takes 370Z performance to the extreme. It leverages 3D CAD design to flawlessly integrate innovative technologies like ball bearing Xona Rotor 2868 turbochargers, billet TiAL components, and a robust Bell intercooler core. The cast manifolds and U.S.-made piping withstand intense heat and pressure, while the reinforced oil and cooling components enable 800+ HP output. Top-tier Bosch 650cc injectors and AFE intake feed the beast with max fueling and airflow. With insane turbocharged power backed by intelligent and robust design, the Fast Intentions Twin Turbo Kit was created to dominate.
The VPF Single Turbo Kit produces the most monstrous horsepower of any single turbo system available for the 370Z. Their Garrett G35-1050 turbo and divided twin scroll manifold create sports car-like response with up to 500 ft-lbs of torque by just 3500 RPM. The stainless steel manifolds and piping, V-band clamps, mammoth intercooler core, and efficient oiling system ensure this beast stays reliably tame. With reinforced components and optimized charge piping, VPF built their single turbo kit to push 370Z performance to the absolute limit.
A turbocharger is a forced induction system that uses exhaust gases to spin a turbine, which then spins an air compressor. This compressed air is forced into the engine, allowing more air and fuel to be combusted in each cylinder. The result is a significant horsepower and torque boost.
Turbocharging has two major benefits for the Nissan 370Z:
For many owners, the 370Z is an incredible sports car straight from the factory. But some desire even greater power and performance. Bolting on a turbo kit is one of the most effective ways to achieve this goal.
Turbochargers allow the V6 engine to produce significantly more horsepower and torque across the entire RPM range. The 370Z will offer neck-snapping acceleration at any speed, allowing you to beat competitors off the line or blow past traffic on the highway.
With a well-engineered turbo kit, many drivers also report better fuel mileage when driving normally. The boosted low-end torque means less throttle is required for daily driving.
A turbocharger by itself is just one component that pressurizes the intake air. A complete turbo kit includes all supporting mods needed for a complete installation:
Purchasing a full kit saves the hassle of piecing together all required parts. Reputable brands engineer components to work flawlessly together.
Not all turbo kits are created equal. Here are the most important factors to evaluate:
Forged aluminum and stainless steel components last longer while handling high temperatures and pressures. Stay away from cheap cast materials prone to failure.
Established brands like Garrett, Precision Turbo, and GReddy have engineering expertise. Choose a kit from a company known for producing high-quality systems.
More expensive kits tend to use larger, more efficient turbos and supporting mods. Make sure your power goals align with the kit’s expected performance.
Some kits are designed for simple at-home installation. Others require fabrication or removal of major components. Assess your mechanical skills and choose accordingly.
With the right turbo kit, your Nissan 370Z will transform from a great sports car into an absolute monster. Use the tips in this guide to select a system that meets your needs and budget so you can start dominating the streets or track.
Installing a 370Z turbo kit requires some specialty tools along with standard automotive tools. At minimum you'll need:
More advanced kits may require fabrication tools like tubing benders and clamps. Refer to the kit's instructions for full tool requirements.
The installation process will vary depending on the specific turbo kit. However, the general procedure is:
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions closely. Have a professional shop complete the installation if you lack experience.
To ensure your 370Z stays reliable after adding the turbo kit we recommend the following:
Some common issues for turbocharged Nissan 370Z may include the following symptoms -
No boost - Failed wastegate, obstructed charge pipes, blown coupler/hose. Check all charge system components.
Smoking turbo - Bad turbo seals indicated by bluish smoke. The turbo may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
Burning oil - Bad turbo seals allow engine oil into the intake and exhaust. Inspect the turbo closely.
Boost spikes - Wastegate is not opening properly at target boost levels. Inspect wastegate actuator and vacuum lines.
Check engine light - Get codes scanned to identify problems with sensors or engine misfires. The tune may need to be adjusted.
The top turbo kits for the Nissan 370Z significantly boost horsepower and torque to transform these sports cars. A properly engineered twin turbo or single turbo setup from a reputable brand like GReddy, AAM Competition, or VPF unlocks the 370Z's true high-performance potential.
While forced induction substantially increases power, integrating a turbo system requires an integrated performance approach to maximize results. Supporting modifications like exhaust, air intake, fuel system, and ECU tuning upgrades work synergistically with turbochargers.
Our other Nissan 370Z performance mod guides provide the blueprint:
Follow our guides to build the ultimate Nissan 370Z - you'll be amazed by just how much better your Z can perform!
Turbo kit installation requires advanced automotive skills and tools. An experienced mechanic shop is highly recommended, especially for more complex twin turbo systems. Proper installation is crucial for performance and reliability.
Yes, adding an aftermarket turbo kit can potentially void the factory powertrain warranty since it modifies the engine. Extended third party warranties may also be voided. Check policies before installing a kit.
Cheap turbo kits with inferior materials and improper tuning can cause major engine damage. Oil leaks, blown gaskets, pistons overheating, and excessive wear will likely occur quickly. Invest in a premium system from a reputable brand to ensure reliability and performance.
It depends on the specific kit and tuning, but most can reliably generate between 400-600 horsepower at the wheels when properly installed. With built engines, some kits can produce over 700+ HP.
Yes, turbo kits are compatible with both manual and automatic 370Z models. However, a manual is recommended to handle the extra power without transmission issues.
Fuel system upgrades, a tuning device like Uprev or ECUTek, upgraded engine internals on high HP builds, an aftermarket exhaust system, and chassis bracing are key supporting mods to consider.
At this time there are no CARB legal complete turbo kits. However, some turbochargers and manifolds are CARB approved and could be used as part of a custom setup.
Most drivers report 1-2 MPG worse fuel economy under normal driving conditions. Aggressive driving will result in significantly worse MPG. E85 flex fuel kits can improve MPG under boost.