jaxrm

I have been toying with the idea of purchasing/installing a Stillen Stage 1 Supercharger. Seems like the most reliable choice for everyday driving (as compared to other kits anyway), but I am certainly open to opinions....particularly if you own one already!

The specs read like I should expect to gain about 60 hp or so for the $$$ + whatever install costs are incurred, I estimate $5,000 or so total (give or take). I've seen the kit for around $3800 - $3900 online lately.

Am I wrong for thinking I can coax another 60 hp out of this car for less then $4-5,000 dollars? while remaining N/A?

Seems like by the time I add up the whole intake/headers/exhaust package, I'm already at least halfway to $4,000 in costs (but not hp), or close to it. Then let's say perhaps add a pulley set, upgraded plenum PLUS the install costs for all of the above items alone as needed, I am not that far from the cost of the supercharger and have I even added 60 hp with these items?...I suspect not, but that's why I am bringing it up to those who might have either setup already?

Thanks again to all @ 350z for their input, Peace!

-jaxrm.

Jokestrap

Go all the way man!!!!

undrgnd

iTrader: (2)

Stillen claims 67-101 whp, depending on the trim. IMO, if you shell out this kind of money, you might as well get the higher level version. At any rate, there is no way NA will ever approach the $$/whp of FI.

nlsqba

iTrader: (1)

i was thinking about going FI. SC seems the cheapest/more reliable way but it has low HP-limits and it will never give the turbo results. turbo are a lot of fun - but you have to build your engine in order to fully utilize the power.

I always thought of SC as a cheap turbo

davidv

iTrader: (2)

It sounds like a good dollar to hp value but consider this: the majority of forced induction 350Zs add all the regular bolt-ons anyway. Chasing hp is never ending. There is no point where someone says “I’m happy. I have enough.”

BTW the best place to talk about forced induction is the forced induction forum.

sp1derm00

iTrader: (11)

$4000... then $1000 labor... after tax $5500.

It all adds up!!

jaxrm

I certainly agree with you regarding the $$/whp of FI. Perhaps another way to put the matter is...let's say I have $2500 sitting tight, ready to invest in my car right now...The debate is whether I should hold on to it until I have enough for a supercharger or do I go out and buy new headers and an exhaust + install? I already have an intake, some dubs+new tires, a new HU in the mail & some minor cosmetics completed...

Let's get back to the 60hp example - Let's say I go and grab a Stillen exhaust for around $1100 (12-14 hp according to my research, refer to Turbo Mag install & dyno). Then there's the plenum spacer upgrade for let's say $300 adding 10-15 hp. At this point, I'm out let's say $1500 for grins - Am I not at the half way point to an additional 60 hp at this point? Even if we go with a 1/3 of the way to 60 hp @ 20hp with these two mods, I'm out $1500 and still have $4000 - $4500 in my pocket to spend if we compare the costs with a 60 hp Stage 1 SC from Stillen @ $5500 - $6000 with the install.

Again, not disputing the $ to hp ratio of FI, just trying to make plans with my ride and use my $ wisely...and learning from those who already have various mods going.

Thanks again for the input, peace!

-jaxrm.

azjimbo

Sport Z magazine tested the Stillen Stage 1 a while back. I think they got 306hp on the dyno. I forget what issue it is. Good reading.

Beer Goggles

iTrader: (2)

You can't Grand Tourismo add HP numbers. The best bang you're going to get from NA is changing the clutch out to something lighter and making sure the wheels are super light and finally switching the rear end. With all of those you should have a seriously quick Z.

FI is the easiest and most cost effective way to go. The Speed magazine article showed that even though it produce the least HP it was one of the quicker cars tested. Big HP means nothing if it's all wasted in wheel spin.

My suggesting is if you want the biggest jump..save for the Stillen w/IC. It's CARB legal if you live in CA, and has a warranty.

But if you want NA mods, the clutch and rear end will make a big difference.

jaxrm

Much thanks for the input. You happen to have any more info on the speed magazine article you're referring to?...Sounds like good reading for sure.

-Peace.