Oh dear. You're looking at Turbo Kits aren't you? I won't lie, it's an involved process but on these engines, it's the most rewarding upgrade you can ever do to your Zed.
Whether it’s the raw 350Z (Z33) or the more refined but equally naughty 370Z (Z34), the Zed platform is unparalleled in the sports car world. The VQ series engines—from the early DE to the high-revving VHR—offer incredible exhaust notes - depending on who you ask, responsive chassis dynamics, and a massive aftermarket community.
But if you’re reading this, you’ve either reached that inevitable plateau, or want to go full bore into the excitement that is forced induction. We don't just want fast, we want 4th gear burning, frightening fast.
However, boosting a high-compression VQ engine isn't as simple as slapping on parts and hitting the key. It requires planning, quality components, and respect for the platform's limits. This is your factual guide to doing it right.
The VQ Reality Check: Why Quality Matters
The VQ35 and VQ37 are award-winning engines, but they were designed for naturally aspirated response, not forced induction pressure.
They run relatively high compression ratios. The engine bays in both the Z33 and Z34 are notoriously tight, making piping routing difficult and turning heat management into a critical challenge.
When you add positive manifold pressure to this equation, the margin for error disappears. Cheap manifolds crack under heat cycling. Poorly designed intercoolers lead to dangerous intake temperatures. Inaccurate fueling destroys pistons.
In the world of VQ forced induction, "budget" almost always costs more in the long run. A successful build relies on precise engineering and components designed specifically for the unique constraints of the Nissan Z chassis.
Know Your Platform: DE vs. HR vs. VHR
While the end goal—massive horsepower—is the same, the starting point differs depending on your Z's model year.
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VQ35DE (03-06 350Z): The original. It has simpler electronics and a single throttle body, making tuning somewhat straightforward. However, the stock connecting rods are generally considered the weakest link. Reliable stock-block limits are usually cited around 400WHP, though a safe tune is paramount. We have track vehicles running TMR Performance Turbo Kits at 400WHP on Ethanol that are running safely and happily.
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VQ35HR (07-08 350Z): The "High Rev" version featured a stronger block design, dual throttle bodies, and better flowing heads. It handles boost significantly better than the DE in stock form. Commonly, stock blocks run into the 5-600WHP range for street use and are often quite robust.
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VQ37VHR (370Z): The 3.7L powerhouse. It features a very stout block and crank, capable of handling significant power. However, the introduction of VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) adds complexity to tuning, and the engine bay is even tighter than the 350Z.
Regardless of which engine you have, they all share one trait: they absolutely sing when turbocharged, providing a rush of top-end power that N/A setups simply cannot match.
The Premium Solution: ModsDirect Turbo Kits produced by TMR Performance
At ModsDirect, we are VQ fans. We have owned 350Z's since early in their production, we still have heavily overbuilt 350Z in fact! We have also got a 370Z in the stable. Both cars are boosted, both cars run happily, and to build both cars, we had to investigate every possible combination of kit and custom fab solution.
We know what fits, what lasts, and what makes reliable power.
When customers ask us for the best "do-it-once, do-it-right" solution for the Z platform, we exclusively recommend TMR Performance Turbo Kits, available here at ModsDirect.
We carry TMR as our premium offering because they address the specific headaches of boosting a VQ:
1. Engineered Fitment in Tight Spaces
The biggest hurdle in turbocharging a Z is physical space. TMR Performance manifolds and piping are expertly jigged to navigate the cramped VQ engine bay without interfering with steering columns or melting crucial wiring harnesses. The fit and finish mean less time fighting installation and more time driving. And just to reiterate, they are DESIGNED to fit our Right Hand Drive (RHD) cars! Big plus.
2. Thermal Management
VQs run hot. Turbo VQs run hotter. TMR kits utilize high-grade stainless steel for manifolds and downpipes designed to withstand extreme heat cycling without cracking—a common failure point in lesser kits. Their intercooler cores are sized appropriately to keep charge temps down during spirited driving, and for the track driver, low mount turbo kits are available to keep the heat well out of the way.
3. Scalable Power
Whether you want a punchy 450whp street car on a stock block or are building a 700whp+ monster with forged internals, the TMR architecture can support it. They use high-quality, reputable turbochargers that offer excellent spool characteristics relative to their power output.
The Essential Supporting Cast
A turbo kit is only about 60% of a forced induction build. To ensure your TMR-boosted Z is reliable, you must budget for the supporting modifications. You cannot skip these:
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Fuel System: Stock injectors and pumps cannot keep up with boost. You will need larger injectors (typically 650cc-1000cc depending on power goals and E85 use) and an upgraded fuel pump. We can supply all of these, some of which can be plug and play on stock wiring. These 731CC Injectors from Bosch are a great plug and play option! Otherwise our Injector Dynamics Catalogue have options all the way to 2600CC!
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Engine Management & Tuning: This is non-negotiable. You need a professional dyno tune using proven software like UpRev or EcuTek to safely manage timing, fueling, and VVEL. HALTECH and LINK ECU also have options that may be suitable depending on your budget and aspirations.
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Drivetrain: Your stock clutch will likely slip immediately under boost. An upgraded clutch and flywheel kit rated for your new torque levels is mandatory.
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Water Cooling: An upgraded radiator, such as these CSF Radiators for the VQ35DE, VQ35HR, and VQ37VHR are paramount for managing water cooling temperatures.
- Oil Cooling: Oil cooling is also a non-negotiable. Available for the 350Z and the 370Z with bespoke bracketry.
Conclusion
Turbocharging your 350Z or 370Z is a major undertaking, but the reward is a driving experience that rivals modern exotics. By choosing a premium, engineered solution like the TMR Performance kit and supporting it with the right fuel and tuning, you build a machine that is as reliable as it is exhilarating.
Ready to transform your Z? Browse our selection of TMR Performance Turbo Kits here or contact our support team to discuss your horsepower goals.