• Nissan 240SX
• BMW E36
• Nissan Skyline R33
• Mazda RX-8
• Honda Civic
• Mazda MX-5 Miata (Eunos)
• Lexus SC (Toyota Soarer)
• Lexus IS (Toyota Altezza)
• Nissan 350Z (Z33)
• Toyota GT86 (BRZ, FRS)
• Honda S2000
• Ford Mustang
• Subaru WRX STI
• Volkswagen Golf GTI
• Volkswagen Beetle

In a hurry? Then watch our best project cars roundup

You don’t have to be going through a midlife crisis to feel the need for a project car. Owning one can be one of the most enjoyable, yet tough, decisions you’re likely to make.

Whether you just want to strip the car back to a bare shell and start from scratch or create a budget street weapon, this guide will undoubtedly help with your decision.

Sure, chances are it’s probably not going to be the wisest financial choice you’ve ever made, but you can’t put a price tag on the amount of enjoyment you can get out of cheap project cars.

Often, you can sell them for what you paid, in fact, some of our choices are already increasing in value, so it could well be the perfect time to snap one up as a future investment before they continue to escalate further.

Initial considerations for best project cars

We highly recommend considering some important factors before you decide which car you’d like to go with, especially if this is your first project car adventure.

First, consider what body style you want. Are you interested in trucks? Or would you have a sports coupe instead? Do you want to spend time figuring out a fancy dual-clutch transmission? Or would you rather put affordability first and settle on a manual gearbox?

Will the car be daily driven? Or are you one of those tuners who strictly purchase sports cars just to take them out on track days? In the case of a daily driver, the mods you make will most likely need to be done over the evenings and weekends. On the other hand, you can perform sports car modifications anytime you see fit.

If you’re lucky enough to have storage space then this is obviously not a concern and you can leave the car on axle stands for a few days or weeks without worry when carrying out upgrades/maintenance/repairs.

Are spares easily available and within your budget? Now, there are heaps of alternative project cars you could potentially go with outside of our recommendations, but we’ve already considered the fact that most parts for these cars are available on the used market for relatively reasonable prices.

If you’re considering something super rare that’s likely to break every other week and cost you a fortune in impossible to source parts, it’s probably going to end up being more frustrating than enjoyable. So, we recommend you choose a platform that has good aftermarket support and plenty of aftermarket parts to choose from.

Should I look for a high-powered car?

Is the car going to provide enough power for your current plans? Is the engine even running? You’ll need to think about which upgrades are planned further down the line and what potential upgrades and engine swaps are available for that specific car.

We’ve noticed that budgets rarely work with these things, but it’s always good to have a rough idea in mind.

If drifting is your aim, you’re obviously going to need to be looking at the rear-wheel-drive platforms in our guide. It’s always easy to want to buy something with huge power to begin with, but lower powered cars can be heaps of fun too, so they’re definitely worth considering.

And do not forget, you’ll have to spend a fair chunk of money for some suspension upgrades and a heavy-duty set of brakes too!

Thankfully, you can enjoy what high-powered cars have to offer without having to spend a penny from the comfort of your computer with games such as Drift Hunters and Madalin Stunt Cars 3.

Think outside the box

Sure, you’re probably already thinking along the lines of, “Drift car? Simple, I’ll get a 240SX!” However, remember that this is what others are thinking too, and this is where ‘drift’ or ‘scene’ tax comes into play, and you’ll probably end up being screwed over on prices for parts.

And of course, the size of your engine bay is the only limiting factor for the endless amount of engine swap options out there.

With that being said, it’ll undoubtedly be worth it if you have your heart set on a specific selection that you’ve always dreamed of owning. We’ve made some pretty questionable choices in our time but we don’t have any regrets!

You’re on Drifted, so chances are you’re set on something Rear Wheel Drive. However, don’t completely rule out Front Wheel Drive cars too, these can be heaps of fun, especially if you’re looking for something cheap. A great-handling, cheap FWD on a tight and twisty track would provide great bang for your buck.

Before we begin, check out what Donut Media’s opinion of the best tuner cars for under $10k to give you some initial ideas!

Now, let’s take a look at our budget project cars

Remember, project cars don’t have to be the absolute best cars on the market, nor does it have to be what your buddies think is cool. Find something YOU like, pour a s**tload load of blood, sweat, and tears into it, and it’ll soon win over your heart. (Or become your worst enemy, but we’ll hope for the best!)

Best Project Cars #1 – Nissan 240SX (S13, 180SX)

• Model year: 1989-1999
• Engine size: 2.4L
• Power output: 1989-1990 – 140 bhp (100 kW) | 1991-1994 – 155 bhp (116 kW)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: Yeah, you knew it was coming! It’s been hugely popular since it rose to fame in the ’90s, and the 240SX is certainly no exception now. Due to their cult following and age/drifting taking its toll, the 240SX has undoubtedly risen in price over time. Reasonably priced models can still be had, but be prepared for it to be a little more of a project than you perhaps planned.

If you have a choice, we recommend going with the KA24DE which has more power out of the box, and far more tuning potential. Many owners choose to swap out the engine for an SR20DET, which it actually left the factory with on the JDM equivalent (180SX).

If power is your aim, then you may feel a little riskier and want to opt for a Skyline RB25 or RB26 replacement for something a little different!

As you’ve probably guessed, the 240SX is an incredibly capable lightweight chassis with great handling for drifting and will undoubtedly make a great platform for a project if you’ve got the cash. If you want to know more about why we recommend 240SX’s so highly, make sure you check out our ‘Why the Nissan 240SX is the best drift car’ guide.

If you feel like the 240SX is the ideal project for you, and maybe have a little more money to splash, we highly recommend checking out S14’s!

CarThrottle Review: “The chassis, the chassis is where this car shines. Now I am not going to talk about the drift potential of this vehicle. The internet will tell 1000 times its great for drifting and it will tell you 1000 more times. The car is tossable into corners. It can really carry a lot of speed through sweepers and tight twisties. The steering is fast, transmission is tight, pedals in the perfect spot and a chassis that communicates really makes this a fun car to carve in.”

“I genuinely feel like people who buy this JUST for drifting are missing out. Not that doing that is a bad thing but SO many people look at this vehicle like its god given talent was drifting that they miss out on the other great things this car can achieve. You S-chassis owners that don’t, try some canyon carving, autocross or track, you guys are really missing out. This car has plenty more on its resume than its drifting career.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #2 – BMW E36

• Model year: 1990-2000
• Engine size: 1.8L-2.8L
• Power output: 73 kW (98 bhp) to 142 kW (190 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: The German legend has arrived. Known throughout America and Europe as one of the best budget drift cars, the BMW E36 has definitely earned its place on our list. In Europe, E36’s generally out-number most other cars at drift days, and with parts easily sourced and common, they’re becoming a great alternative to the more expensive JDM cars.

Their popularity in the US has also risen quickly in recent years, with companies such as Pandem modernizing it with their Rocket Bunny kits to keep the stance (and brave drift) scene happy.

There are several different models of the E36, but a few basic mods will allow even the lowest power ones to go sideways. We highly recommend these for some cheap, great handling fun!

With E46’s more affordable than ever, these are also a fantastic option if you fancy something a little more modern. If you like the old-school look, E30’s have to be a sure temptation. We always love M3’s, but we also know first hand the cost involved with owning them, so proceed with caution if they tickle your fancy!

Motortrend Review: “The E36 generation BMW 3 Series Coupes has a quite a few highs, the odd low and a whole heap of appeal. There are some rough examples around and buying a well-serviced car that’s been kept as close to standard trim as possible is a wise move.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #3 – Nissan Skyline R33

• Model year: 1993-1998
• Engine size: 2.0L-2.5L
• Power output: 96 kW (128 bhp) to 184 kW (247 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: Nissan Skyline R32 and R34 prices have shot through the roof in recent years, even for the lesser models. Luckily, if you’re after a Skyline, the R33 has remained relatively affordable during that time.

It’s certainly not the cheapest option on our list, but it’s a whole lot of car for the money. We expect that these will eventually creep up in value like their siblings too, even if they are the ugly duckling of the bunch.

With up to 250hp available from the RB engine in stock form, they also take extremely well to upgrades with some simple bolt-on modifications to squeeze the extra horses out.

Weighing in at 1,360kg, these certainly aren’t the lightest of our choices, but strip out the interior and some handling mods and we have no doubt it’ll keep you grinning ear to ear around the track.

Autospeed Review: “The RB25DET is undoubtedly one of the best single turbo engines we’ve ever sat behind. Off-boost torque is strong, but get some load on above about 3000 rpm and she’s a real rocket. Torque holds strong until close to the 7000 rpm redline.”

“The R33 is quite a large car – but its chassis is very well suited to an urban chuck-about. Tromp it a little early exiting a corner the back end squats, cork-screws a little and then eases to the side oh-so progressively. It’s so sublime you don’t always realize that it’s happening.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #4 – Mazda RX-8

• Model year: 2003-2012
• Engine size: 1.3L
• Power output: 141 kW (189 bhp) to 177 kW (237 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: You’re probably upset that we didn’t include the RX-7, and believe me, we wanted to. If you can get one reasonably enough, don’t even hesitate! However, we can’t ignore that RX-8 prices are plummeting while FC and FD prices rise, so we think it could well be the perfect time to land an RX8 for a project car base.

With a chassis that is comparable to the legendary FD, the RX8 provides up to 250hp weighing in at just 1,309kg.

On paper, it sounds like the perfect option, however, the reason for these being so cheap is due to the difficult to maintain rotary engines. Despite being incredible technology, they’re definitely not the most reliable engine on the market.

If you can get one cheap enough, consider adding something like an LS1, or take it back to its true heritage with a 13B turbo. This way, you’ve got an affordable AND reliable lightweight drift car!

Although the rotary powerplant can put you off, these fantstic cars happen to be a great platform for an engine swap!

Autocar Review: “First off, there’s still nothing else like an RX-8. That low, sleek coupé shape, those wacky suicide rear doors and two-rotor engine that sounds like a hoover on full chat continue to make it a unique proposition.”

“The RX-8 feels really well balanced, eager to turn in, gripping more strongly at the front and with body roll now much reduced. The back end sticks very well, but switch the DSC off and as you exit a tight bend with power on, round it comes. And that’s in the dry. But it’s all well telegraphed and easy to catch.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #5 – Honda Civic

• Model year: 1991-2000
• Engine size: 1.3L-1.6L
• Power output: 52 kW (70 bhp) to 93 kW (125 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: FWD

Our comment: No sighing, please. You’ve probably already realized that here at Drifted, we don’t exactly claim to be Honda Civic experts. That being said, we’ve been out in some track-prepped ones and we know that these can provide a s**tload of fun for the money!

With some models weighing a mere 925kg and capable of up to 125hp before you’ve done any upgrades, these are great value for money.

If you want some cheap, reliable, high-revving front-wheel-drive fun, these are definitely worth considering!

Autocar Review: “Peak horsepower is developed at a lofty 6600 rpm. And there’s no serious penalty for turning the VTEC engine so fast, as it stays remarkably smooth right up to the point where its electronic rpm limiter steps in.”

Best Project Cars #6 – Mazda Miata (Eunos, MX5)

• Model year: 1989-2005
• Engine size: 1.6L-1.8L
• Power output: 86 kW (115 bhp), to 99 kW (133 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: Cheap, cheerful and a fantastic base for a daily or a track-car alike. We love the Mazda Miata MX-5 and this throwback to British roadsters really is a unique car to throw sideways with the wind in your hair.

Miatas are certainly not the most powerful, but they’re light and can take a good old-fashioned ass-kicking without causing too much of a fuss. Coilovers and an exhaust can really transform these. If you’ve got some spare cash, you can even go down the supercharger route for maximum potential!

Roadandtrack Review: “By mixing the fun of yesterday’s roadsters with the technology of today, it marks a giant leap forward in the evolution of the sports car.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #7 – Lexus SC400 (Toyota Soarer)

• Model year: 1991-2000
• Engine size: 4.0L
• Power output: 186 kW (250 bhp) to 216 kW (290 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: The SC400 was $40,000 worth of car when it was first released, and now they can be had for a steal. The 290hp from the 1UZ-FE V8 isn’t to be sniffed at, but they’re not the lightest cars out there.

Whether you’re looking for a drift car, or a VIP/daily, these will fit the bill extremely well. Many owners have gone all-out with 1JZ and 2JZ swaps from the Supra for maximum tuning potential.

The Truth About Cars Review: “There is nothing quite like it!” Every enthusiast I know has that attitude towards their car. But rarely is it actually true. If you find a well preserved one with less than 150k. Buy it. If you can find an SC300 with an all too rare manual tranny in it. Call me first. I’ll buy it and be your new best friend.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #8 – Lexus IS300 (Toyota Altezza)

• Model year: 1999-2005
• Engine size: 4.0L
• Power output: 186 kW (250 bhp) to 216 kW (290 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: The Lexus IS300 is quickly becoming a modern-day legend. With great looks and easy tuning ability alongside the potential of plenty of convenient off-the-shelf turbo kits, the 2JZ powerplant has a huge amount of potential.

These once again are great drift, daily or VIP-style cars with a huge amount of mods available on the market. We’ve got guides to show you our favorite coilovers and exhausts specifically for the IS300, and believe me, there’s certainly no shortage of selection!

RAC Review: “If you can track down a reasonably priced IS300, it makes a very satisfying ownership proposition. The interior is well appointed, the engine is delightfully smooth and the reliability record is second to none. As one of those cars that seems to make a whole lot more sense used than new, the IS300 deserves a little recognition.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #9 – Nissan 350Z (Z33)

• Model year: 2003-2008
• Engine size: 3.5L
• Power output: 214 kW (287 bhp) to 228 kW (306 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: The 350Z has been popular for many years in all sorts of motorsport, and with the arrival of its younger brother, the 370Z, chances are that you’ll be able to pick one of these up at a more impressive price than ever.

With the reliable, yet underpowered, 3.5L power-lump under the hood and a bombproof gearbox, the 350Z has heaps of tuning potential and we have the perfect guides to help you find the ultimate parts for your build. Some basic mods will make this an extremely capable drift car with a lot of room to progress if you decide to go down the forced induction route later on.

Check out our wide variety of guides for the 350Z, there are simple bolt-on mods such as coilovers, exhausts and cold air intake to get you started.

Once you’ve got the car sitting and sounding nice, you may want to consider the forced induction route. If so, there’s an epic range of tried-and-tested off-the-shelf supercharger and turbo kit options to turn your 350Z into a tire-shredding monster!

If you have big bucks to spend and fancy something a little different, the 370z is a fantastic consideration too.

Evo Review: “I’ve become a massive fan of the latest-generation Z-car. I reckon it’s one of the greatest affordable performance cars of the last ten years.”

Best Project Cars #10 – Toyota GT86/Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S

• Model year: 2012-2021
• Engine size: 2.0L
• Power output: 147kW (197 bhp) to 153 kW (205 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: GT86, BRZ, FR-S, whatever you want to call it! It’s undoubtedly one of the best cars of this decade and prices on the earlier models are now becoming more affordable than ever.

Based on the original AE86, this stunning creation really does tick so many boxes. It may not have a huge amount of power from the factory, but the lightweight with skinny-tire combination makes it insanely fun to drive.

If you do fancy giving it an extra kick up the a**, we’ve got our GT86 turbo and supercharger guides to keep you happy!

For those of you that want to keep it simple and do some basic modifications, make sure you check out our exhaust, coilover guides!

We highly recommend the AE86 as a project car, but unfortunately, prices are soaring. If you’re able to pick one up at a bargain price, don’t even hesitate as it’ll undoubtedly be a great investment!

Top Gear Review: “The simplest and most exciting Toyota in years is also a real pleasure to drive. It says a lot that Toyota took a whole five years to update the GT86, and kept the changes so light when it did. This is a fundamentally great car that may not look or feel especially modern, but that’s sort of the point.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #11 – Honda S2000

• Model year: 1999-2009
• Engine size: 2.0L
• Power output: 177kW (237 bhp) to 184 kW (247 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: The S2000 doesn’t typically spring to mind when thinking of project cars, but we think it has heaps of future potential. Prices are starting to get lower and for some of you it will be an affordable consideration

Honda created the S2K to mark the company’s 50th anniversary, and it was certainly lived up to expectations. Think of it as a high-revving modern-day Miata on steroids. Once again, these have a huge variety of off-the-shelf parts if you feel the need for more than 247hp!

If you have the balls to whack a turbocharger on this lightweight chassis, you’ll definitely want to take a look at our turbo and supercharger guides to keep you happy!

For those of you that want to keep it simple and do some basic modifications, make sure you check out our coilover and exhaust guides.

Top Gear Review: “You rev until you think pistons are going to burst through the bonnet, before grabbing the next gear via the utterly, utterly superb manual shift. One of the best I’ve ever used. Perhaps the best.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #12 – Subaru WRX STI

• Model year: 1992-2021
• Engine size: 2.0-2.5L
• Power output: 184 kW (247 bhp) to 231 kW (310 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: AWD

Our comment: We get it, some of you guys aren’t that much into drifting. Well, then let us present you our next choice – a multiple-time WRC championship-winning rally car!

From the beginning, Subaru’s main goal with the WRX STI was to conquer the world of rallying. And to say that they achieved their goal would be an understatement. Powered by Subaru’s legendary boxer engine, this AWD saloon won the WRC constructors title 3 times.

This is one of the most popular tuner car platforms in the world, and you’ll find plenty of “Subie” aficionados no matter where you go. Oh, and did we mention that it can comfortably carry your whole family?

If you decide to go for a WRX STI, there are a few well-known reliability issues that you should keep an eye out for. And we have one more request – Please don’t start vaping!

Car And Driver Review: “The STI is the mightiest and most aggressive WRX, but also the noisiest, stiffest-riding, and rawest.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #13 – Volkswagen Golf GTI

• Model year: 1976-Present
• Engine size: 1.6-2.0L
• Power output: 82 kW (110 bhp) to 180 kW (241 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: FWD

Our comment: Let’s take a break from the Japanese stuff and head to Germany for our next entry. The Golf GTI makes a great family car, and an even greater project car if you decide to go crazy with the modifications.

As of 2023, there have been 8 generations of the Golf GTI. You can pick up an early-generation model for cheap, strip out the interior, and have a great, lightweight hatchback to take to the track.

If you have some more cash to spend, you can splash out on an R32 or a modern Golf R, which will give sportscar-beating levels of performance with just a few bolt-ons.

CarWow Review: “The Golf GTI is a great all-rounder – fast enough to be great fun, sensible enough to drive every day comfortably. But the Golf R is even faster”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #14 – Volkswagen Beetle

• Model year: 1938-2003
• Engine size: 1.1-1.6L
• Power output: 16kW (22 bhp) to 84 kW (115 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: We know your thoughts, but hear us out! Rear engine, RWD, air-cooled – the VW Beetle is effectively a budget Porsche 911.

Jokes aside, if you are serious about picking up a project car for the cheap, there are few better options than this venerable “people’s car” Although it came with a mind-blowingly slow motor from the factory, there are plenty of modifications available to give this little car some get up and go.

If you are crazy enough, you can do some wild engine swaps with the Beetle as well. Everything from Subaru EJs to Honda’s K-series motors has found its way to the engine bay of this affordable family car.

RAC Review: “You’ll either love or hate the ‘new’ Volkswagen Beetle. Some will celebrate it as an icon brought up to date, whilst others will feel it’s a sad pastiche of a best-forgotten relic and a Golf in drag. Whatever way you look at it, the Beetle is here, it’s sold rather well and it’s great fun to own”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #15 – Ford Mustang

• Model year: 1985-Present
• Engine size: 2.3-5.0L
• Power output: 220 hp (Foxbody) to 412 hp (Ford Mustang GT)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: When the Ford Mustang isn’t busy trying to run over spectators, it can make a pretty damn good project car!

Although many of you may have gotten bored of seeing Mustangs over the years and feel they’ve somewhat lost their appeal, why not use that to your advantage?

Let’s face it, the best project cars are those that are easy to source parts for, preferably with adequate power already under the hood, and the Mustang ticks both of those boxes.

Although there’s no shortage of Mustangs waiting to be transformed into tire-shredding monsters in the US, you may still be able to pick up a bargain elsewhere.

With the early Foxbody versions pushing out 220 hp in stock form, the Mustang GT can also be found with ever-impressive price tags.

If possible, we’d be hunting down a 5.0L V8 GT, with a great power-to-value output of 412 hp, and a 0-60 time of 4.6 seconds.

With drivers such as Chelsea DeNofa and Diego Higa keeping Mustang’s in the drifting limelight, there’s no question that the chassis is more than capable when it comes to being thrown sideways at the track.

Although Ford has achieved a whopping 760 hp from the 2020 GT500 in stock form, we doubt you’ll be finding one of those on a budget just yet.

CarandDriver Review: “The Mustang GT accelerates with a sound and fury that imported sports coupes cannot match.”

– Read the full review

We normally decide our winner here…

This time, all our choices are winners for different reasons.

We’ve selected these cars from literally thousands of possibilities, and we’ve tried to give a wide variety of price ranges and choices. Admittedly, they may be a little drift biased, but what else would you expect from Drifted?

We have no doubt that whichever car you select, you’re most likely going to have a rollercoaster ride at some point during your ownership, but as long as you see the project through, we have no doubt it’ll be worth every minute you put into it.

Project cars have a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts, and it’ll open up a whole realm of possibilities as you begin to build the car, take it to meets and take it to the track. We hope you manage to build the car of your dreams and make new friends that last a lifetime.

Thank you for reading our best budget project cars guide

We hope that you’re now confident in choosing the right car to satisfy your inner urges!

Photography credits

We would like to thank the following sources for the use of their images:

• Fitment Industries

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Here, you can click on a particular section within this article, otherwise, scroll down as we look at every aspect of the Nissan 350z.

• Nissan 350z (Z33) History
• Nissan 350z Pros & Cons
• Building the Ultimate 350z
• Nissan 350z’s In Drifting
• What’s Next For The Fairlady?
• Conclusion

Introduction

Given the ever-increasing popularity for 350z’s in the tuning world, it’s the perfect time to grab yourself the ultimate bargain in reasonably priced motoring.

For the money, you’re going to struggle to find such a perfect all-rounder, with its sleek and stylish body combined the well-refined reliable powerplant and chassis and modern interior.

If you’ve already bagged yourself one, congratulations, we have no doubt you’ve made the right choice! We’ve written his article to help you learn a little more about the history and to tweak it to its full potential.

A Legend is Born

When the 350z was launched in 2002, the fifth generation of the Nissan Z car line caught the attention of several markets and became an instant hit.

Before we knew it, the car was being featured in popular games such as Madalin Stunt Cars 3, where fans could enjoy what the Z has to offer without having to stump up the cash for the real thing.

Some were interested in its unique, modern shape, curves and design, whilst the petrolheads rejoiced at an awesome new reasonably priced sports car.

It certainly wasn’t the fastest car on the market in its natural form, but its price and availability made it a far more tempting offering for those who were looking for something a little less appealing to a hairdresser than the Miata (Sorry, not sorry!).

It’s front-engine, rear-wheel drive two-seater layout ticked many boxes and made for a unique drift car or an awesome daily which was more than capable of putting a huge grin on your face during the weekend canyon run.

Naturally, it didn’t take long before the aftermarket tuning scene sets its eyes on this new offering, and within no time at all the 350z was taking podiums in Formula Drift and various other motorsports across the world.

With a huge inventory of modifications and upgrades available off-the-shelf, it’s more convenient than ever to build yourself the ultimate weapon for the street or the track, whether you’ve got bottomless pockets or simply looking to build yourself a budget weekend skidder.

The Best JDM Deal on the Planet

Given that it’s now harder than ever to get yourself a good deal on a used Nissan s-chassis, or most popular drift cars for that matter, the 350z still remains an affordable temptation. Once you’ve paid the s-chassis scene tax, you’re going to be left with even less money for the ever-increasingly priced used and highly sought-after parts that you’ll undoubtedly be craving.

Starting with a cheaper rear wheel drive platform such as the 350z, which also has reasonably priced brand-new parts on the shelf, can often make things far cheaper and more convenient than buying overpriced used ‘JDM y0′ parts.

Also, you’re not going to be forced to buy yourself a rust-bucket which has spent several years being bounced off walls and the rev limiter for your budget either.

Simply getting yourself coilovers, an exhaust and a cold air intake can transform your car, and if you’re looking to go even further, the tuning potential is certainly impressive.

From turbocharger or supercharger kits, right the way through convenient LS swaps, there really is something for everyone when it comes to building your perfect 350z.

Here at Drifted, we’ve always had a soft spot for cars which have a story behind them, and Nissan’s Fairlady family history certainly doesn’t disappoint.

With one of the greatest stories in the JDM world, which spans from 1969 until the present day with the 400z and the slightly older 370z (which includes a shared FR platform with the Infiniti G35/G37), it’s continued to satisfy the needs of petrolheads across the globe throughout that time.

If you are also interested in the G35 platform, you might want to check out our G35 Vs 350z article.

Performance Figures

With the original Datsun Fairlady 240z being based on a 2.4-litre straight-six engine, the 350z initially featured a 3.5-litre V6 VQ35DE under the hood, before Nissan later upgraded to the VQ35HR.

With the original VQ35DE creating 287hp, they later released a 300hp Rev-Up upgrade from 2005 before later swapping for arguably the best VQ35 engine, the HR.

With the 306hp HR, it was originally introduced in 2007 and they continued to use it until production ceased to make way for the 370z in 2009.

If you’re keen to know more about the various models and the differences between them then make sure you check out our 350z History section below.

You can probably tell that we’re already huge fans of the 350z, but the fact that they can be had for so cheap these days just makes them a no-brainer in our mind.

It made the list on BOTH our Best Drift Cars for Beginners AND Best Budget Project Cars articles.

Keen to know more about the 350z?

You’ve certainly come to the right place! We’re going to look at the history of these epic motoring bargains, before looking into the tuning potential available to make the most out of them.

This is the ultimate guide whether you already own a 350z or if you’re looking to learn more about them, before creating the ultimate weapon you stay up at night thinking about!

Nissan 350z (Z33) History

With the 300ZX being withdrawn from the U.S. market in 1996, Nissan intended to re-create the prestigious 240z the following year.

Having been created by Nissan North America’s design team during their free time, a new 240z concept was later introduced in a four-state Road Show in 1998.

Yutaka Katayama, known as the ‘Father of the Z’ unveiled the sketch to the public, however, the original 240z designer, Yoshihiko Matsuo, was not impressed, and stated it looked more like a Nissan Bluebird or Leopard.

Despite this, they continued with the 240z concept and produced a model for the 1999 North American International Auto Show.

Nissan was happy with the initial idea; however, they weren’t so keen on the planned KA24DE engine, which understandably didn’t fit their modern plans and intentions, and also felt that the 240z based-design needed improvement before it hit the mass-market.

Although the original concept had been shelved, it showed public interest and undoubtedly was a step closer to launching the latest in the Z-car line.

After an extensive design overhaul and a brand new straight-six engine, this concept would later make way for what we now know as the much-loved 350z.

A New Beginning

During the later unveiling of the brand-new 350z at the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show, Nissan President Carlos Ghosn said, “In the fall of 1969, Nissan (Datsun) introduced a two-seat sports car that revolutionized the automotive world at the time.

It had European styling, American muscle, Japanese quality, and global desirability.”

Ghosn was referring to the Datsun 240z, which was referred to as the ‘Fairlady Z’ in the Asian markets. This was the first-born model of the Fairlady family, and the global desirability which he mentioned has never been stronger than in the present day.

Keen to know more about the family history?

Check out this video to see the evolution of the Fairlady Z:

The 240z is undoubtedly one of the most significant cars in automotive history books, and Nissan was the first Japanese company to introduce sports models in the United States.

With their impressive growth and popularity, they then went on to overtake Volkswagen as the best-selling import brand in the US by the mid-1970s, having already sold almost a million Z’s worldwide by this time.

John Yukawa, Chief Product Specialist stated, “The customer wants to purchase the Z at first sight because of its excellent design, and afterwards, he goes on to love the Z forever because of its high performance.”

Although by the standards of modern-day drifting, the 350z isn’t particularly high powered, it’s still got enough ponies under the hood to provide enough fun when throwing it down at a smaller track.

If you do wish to push it to its full potential, the chassis is capable of much more than Nissan initially intended.

Let’s take a look through the various models of the 350z:

Nissan 350z 2002 (VQ35DE)

The first ever model first hit the reorganized Nissan Blue Stage showrooms back in July 2002 in Japan. Just one month later, it would also surface in the U.S in five different trim packages, ‘Base’, ‘Enthusiast’, ‘Performance’, ‘Touring’ and ‘Track’ editions.

For Europe, only the ‘Track’ variation was initially made available, badged and marketed as the ‘350z’.

With the base model, it lacked some of the more worthwhile extras if you wanted to get the most out of the car, such as the VLSD and Traction Control, and only ever came with cloth seats.

It also lacked some additional luxuries such as cruise control and electronically adjustable and heated seats.

If you opted for the ‘Enthusiast’ model, you would get the VLSD and traction control along with the convenient cruise control.

For the ‘Performance’ model, they also added 18-inch wheels, front air dam, a rear spoiler, optional Brembo brakes and VDC instead of traction control.

With the ‘Luxury’ model, you were provided with electronically-powered leather heated seats, VDC, VLSD, xenon headlamps, optional Brembo’s, the 18-inch wheels and also an optional GPS system.

Finally, the ‘Track’ model included Brembo brakes, front air dam, rear spoiler, traction control, cloth seats, 18-inch wheels, VLSD, and optional GPS.

Nissan 350z 2004 (VQ35DE)

For the 2004 model year, Nissan introduced the 350z Roadster to the market, which had an electronically retractable soft-top roof for those of you that like cruising with the roof down.

For the U.S. market, these were available in two trim packages – Enthusiast and Touring.

Nissan 350z 2005 (VQ35DE Rev-up)

In 2005, Nissan released some substantial upgrades to the 350z to commemorate the 35th Anniversary of the 240z. This significant update provided both interior and exterior revisions.

Early 2005 35th Anniversary Editions were fitted with the original 287hp engine and automatic transmission. However, for the 6-speed manual models, they would get the newly-updated VQ35DE Rev-up engine, which was capable of producing 300hp.

Alongside the power upgrade, they also released a newly updated CD009 transmission, as well as making minor adjustments to suspension tuning and parts.

Nissan 350z 2006 (VQ35DE Rev-up & Mid-Cycle Facelift)

For 2006, even more changes were made during the mid-cycle facelift. This meant that the Rev-up engine was available for every trim level which had a manual transmission option.

However, for those that decided to stick with the automatic option, the 287hp 5-speed VQ35DE was the only option.

The changes made for the mid-cycle facelift included bi-xenon projectors, a revised front fascia, LED rear lights, interior trim changes and speed sensitive steering.

Any trim levels above the basic ‘Enthusiast’ package also got a brake system upgrade including a larger brake booster, front dual piston calipers, and larger diameter brake discs.

For the upper-end Touring and Grand Touring models, radio-steering controls came as standard, alongside MP3 CD compatibility and Satellite Radio also became an available option.

Nissan 350z 2007 (VQ35HR)

For the final 350z models to ever roll out of the showrooms, they opted to swap the VQ35DE, instead opting for the upgraded VQ35HR engine.

This was capable of producing just 6hp more than the Rev-up at 306hp, which certainly doesn’t sound like much, however, it also featured a dual throttle body design and a raised redline to 7,500 rpm and provided more torque throughout the rev range which made for a much improved experience over the original engines.

From our experience, we found the HR to be a far more refined engine and you could certainly feel the power difference between this and the original DE.

Some of the Rev-up engines were known for excessive oil consumption, which we’ll take a look at in our Pros and Cons section.

Nissan 350z Special Editions

Nissan produced a number of special editions for their Z33, these included:

Nissan 350z 35th Anniversary Edition (2005)

To celebrate 35 years since the original launch of the 240z, Nissan opted to create this tuned version of the 350z coupe, which initially went on sale in January 2005.

This includes the 300hp Rev-up VQ35DE for the 6-speed manual models, however, the automatic variants still had the original 287hp engine.

Also included were 18-inch allow wheels, front spoilers, Brembo brakes and unique ‘Z’ badging.

It was available in “Ultra Yellow” and “Pearl Blue” options and also featured a Bose 6-speaker premium sound system.

This Series was only sold in Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK and were only ever produced with a right-hand-drive setup from the factory.

Nissan 350z GT-S (2006)

During the UK’s prestigious motorsports event, The Goodwood Festival of Speed, in 2006, Nissan Technical Centre Europe (NTCE) unveiled the 350z GT-S.

This featured a unique radial flow supercharger which could be turned off simply by flicking a switch on the dashboard.

This raised the VQ35DE’s output to an impressive 382.6 hp and 313 ft/lb torque without modifications to the engine components.

Despite these never hitting the market, it would encourage aftermarket manufacturers to build off-the-shelf supercharger kits so that enthusiasts could create a similar setup at a fraction of the price.

Fairlady Z Type F (2008)

The Fairlady Z Type F was created specifically for the Japanese market (hence the name not being 350z) and was launched in both coupe and roadster variants.

With a choice of six body colors, it also had exclusive red leather heated seats, as well as red leather on the shift knob, parking lever, door trim and armrest.

It also featured some subtle touches such as an aluminium kicking plate and RAYS forged aluminium wheels.

A BOSE audio system was fitted as standard, as well as VDC, Brembo brakes and some of the rarer color offerings.

Nissan 350z NISMO Editions

Nissan’s Racing division (Nissan Motorsport International Limited) is well-known for releasing limited edition revisions for both road and competition-only cars.

NISMO R-Tune (2004)

The first-ever NISMO 350z was the R-Tune, which included modified headers and cat-back exhaust system, a cold-air intake, camshafts, and pulleys.

This also included an uprated R-tune single disk clutch and cover and a NISMO shift knob alongside a clutch-type adjustable LSD with four pinion gears.

Not only that, but it also included an uprated suspension system which included sway bars and shocks and springs.

Uprated brake pads were used as well as an oil cooler kit.

It also received several cosmetic upgrades, such as an aero body kit and larger 5-spoke forged alloy wheels.

This was designed for track racers and voided the Nissan factory warranty at the time. It was reported to be capable of 305hp.

NISMO S-Tune GT (2005)

Built to celebrate 20 years of NISMO, the S-Tune received another freshly updated body kit and sat 20mm lower than the original car. The chassis was stiffened, and the suspension upgraded to G-Attack springs and dampers.

On the interior, it featured NISMO racing bucket seats with embroidered NISMO logos.

The stock engine was upgraded to 296hp and a 7,200rpm redline with the use of improved timing control, stronger con-rod bolts, uprated valve springs, a lightweight flywheel, a re-mapped ECU and a carbon cold-air intake and a sports exhaust.

355mm front 4-pot Brembo’s also provided more than enough stopping power to make this another fantastic track offering. Just 20 were produced each month in Japan, making them extremely rare and sought-after.

NISMO 350z (2007-2008)

After the rarer two models above, NISMO also opted for creating a model for the mass market.

This featured the uprated VQ35HR engine and was only available with a 6-speed manual transmission. It featured a VLSD, Traction Control and had NISMO aero based on their Super GT Championship car.

It also features stylish RAYS forged alloy wheels and a NISMO exhaust.

The suspension utilizes a multi-link system and front and rear dampers produced by Yamaha with Brembo 4-pot front and 2-pot rear brakes.

The upgrades weren’t purely bolt-on parts, as NISMO specifically pulled 350z’s from the production line to be sent to Autech to have structural seams hand-welded for greater body rigidity.

This made the NISMO 350z more capable than the stock trim levels available from the factory.

After going on sale in July 2007, just 1,607 were produced for the 07-08 model years. The NISMO models had a suggested retail price of $38,070 on the U.S. market.

NISMO Type 380RS (2007)

This was the road version of the 380RS-Competition race car, which features a detuned version of the 380RS-C race engine, which is rated at 348hp.

This features Brembo brakes, Yamaha front, and rear dampers and RAYS forged alloy wheels. Just 300 380RS models were produced between 2007-2008 and were priced at $38,695 (5.397 million yen) in Japan.

NISMO Type 380RS-Competition

This is the race-spec version of the 380RS which has a tuned VQ35HR which is capable of 400PS at 7,500 rpm. According to Nissan, these were sold at 26.25 million yen (around $241,750).

NISMO Police Version

We’re not sure if this is more cool, or amusing, but the Tochigi Prefecture police force had their own specifically-designed NISMO 350z’s, undoubtedly purchased for catching those damn drifters!

You certainly wouldn’t want to be chased by one of those in your stock 350!

Nissan 350z (Z33) Pros & Cons

Pros

• Undoubtedly a great drivers car, especially with some minor modifications
• Fantastically priced, particularly in the present market
• Reliable – the Rev-up is sometimes known for burning oil, but other than that they are well-known for their strength and tuning potential
• Stunning looks, which have stood the test of time
• A huge selection of off-the-shelf bolt-on modifications – we’re going to take a further look into some of the best products on offer in the next section
• Parts availability – this is often a huge problem with owners of rarer cars, especially cars like the S-chassis which has been around in the drift scene for a LONG time. With parts getting older, they’re also getting rarer, much like the cars
• Forced induction capabilities – with such strong internals, these engines are capable of achieving far bigger power figures than Nissan provided

Cons

• Rear blind spot – due to the design, some owners have had difficulty seeing out the rear 3/4
• Rev-up oil consumption – these engines have been known to burn a little excess oil, it seems to be worse with the rev-up’s than other models, so it’s well worth researching if you are planning to buy one and think this may be an issue for you
• Two seats – this could be a positive for some owners, we sure as hell don’t like having to carry too many passengers all the time and regularly strip the rear of our car, but given there’s no option, I guess it’s a con
• Weight – they’re not the lightest chassis out there, but it’s the perfect opportunity to carry out some weight saving
• Limited cargo space – if you’re often moving big items such as golf clubs, you may want to reconsider your car choice, these aren’t exactly the most spacious method of transport

Building the Ultimate 350z

With the ever-increasing popularity of 350z’s in the tuning world, we’ve created a huge variety of articles helping you choose the very best parts for building the ultimate 350z.

We highly recommend checking out all of our 350z tuning guides, but let’s take a look at our recommended mods for the 350z:

Vortech Supercharger Kit

• Manufacturer: Vortech
• Fitment: Nissan 350Z, Z33
• Supercharger type: Centrifugal
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Buy the Vortech Supercharger Kit here

Our comment: Vortech have put their years of valuable knowledge in the supercharging scene to create the ultimate kit for 350z owners.

Combining great value for money with the fantastic build quality, reliability and customer service. Not only that, it’s also one of the easiest kits to install (around 8-12 hours).

With owners making an impressive 410hp from the kit and 440hp from the ‘Rev-Up’ variation, it’s easy to see why so many have made this their choice.

This kit also includes upgrade options to gain additional power. Check out the video below where someone has managed to achieve a crazy 577whp!

Manufacturer description: “The 350Z system uses Vortech’s V-3 SCi supercharger. Continued development in Vortech’s Lab resulted in the V-3 SCi. The “i” stands for improved and with its new patented oil control system and state of the art centrifugal compressor stage this V-3 literally blows away the competition.

Industry leading 75% adiabatic efficiency [SAE J1723 standard] means less heat is being generated, reduced drive power and more net power is produced. Less heat also means better durability, easier on the engine than any turbo installation.“

“Vortech supercharger systems are great value. Dollar for dollar, Vortech systems deliver more horsepower than virtually any other method of upgrade. Also, driven normally, gas mileage usually increases.“

“Vortech’s 350Z Supercharger Systems are available as either a complete, fully calibrated bolt-on system, or as a Tuner Kit for custom installations at over 500 HP. And with Vortech’s many upgrade solutions, there is always more power when you are ready.“

Jim Wolf Technologies Twin Turbo kit

• Manufacturer: Jim Wolf Technologies
• Fitment: Nissan 350z Z33, G35
• Turbo configuration: Twin turbo
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Buy JWT Twin Turbo kit here

Our comment: The JWT kit is a great starter turbo kit that comes in at a mid level price point. Offering 125 WHP out of the box and impressive reliability claims, this could be the perfect solution to safely increasing your power. Further upgrade options are available to really make things interesting. Nice kit!

Manufacturer description: “JWT originally designed this kit as a feasibility study in conjunction with Garrett and Infiniti’s product planner at the time. The kit is designed around the O.E. criteria for reliability, no boost lag, and safe but significant power levels.”

“The JWT Twin Turbo Kit has accomplished this and more over thousands of miles of reliable track and street use since it’s release. All critical airflow junctions use application-specific castings to maximize flow and eliminate boost lag. Turbo outlets have isolated waste paths to improve turbine efficiency.”

“JWT has combined high-efficiency Garrett GT Ball Bearing Turbos, Garrett charge cooler cores (700+hp rated) with over 300 individual parts, to create the most complete and reliable bolt-on forced induction system available for Nissan and Infiniti VQ35 vehicles.”

“No other boosting solution combines the reliability, performance, and throttle responsiveness of this system.”

“This system is complete requiring no other modifications to deliver an additional 125WHP and much more with additional JWT upgrade stages.“

APEXi N1 ExV Damper Coilover Kit

• Manufacturer: APEXi
• Levels of damping adjustment: 32
• Construction type: Monotube
• Spring rate front: 10kg/mm
• Spring rate rear: 8kg/mm
• Fitment: Nissan 350z, Nissan Fairlady Z, Z33
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Buy your APEXi ExV’s at FRSport

Our comment: These coilovers are a great out of the box option for a no thrills sports setup. These would be suitable for anybody looking to improve the looks and handling of their 350z for a reasonable budget. They are the cheapest coilovers in our guide and offer good value for money.

Manufacturer description: “APEXi N1 ExV is the newest line of coilover kits from Apexi featuring dual height and 32-way dampening adjustments. ExV, which stands for “Expert Type V” was designed to the be ultimate street suspension with no compromise for ride quality and price.”

“Features include:
– 44mm Monotube Damper w/32-way adjustments
– Full dual height adjustable body for fine adjustments
– Spanner wrench and accessories included
– High-quality design and manufacturing”

“A must have for anyone doing track days and spirited driving. Will improve car handling and response effectively.”

TOMEI Expreme Ti 350z exhaust

• Internal pipe diameter: 60.5mm
• Tailpipe configuration: Single 76.3mm exit
• Primary exhaust system material: Titanium
• Fitment: Nissan 350z (Z33)
• Manufacturer: TOMEI
• Value for money:rating
• Our comment: The TOMEI Expreme Ti series are highly regarded exhaust systems, they offer stunning titanium build materials, sleeved joins, massive weight savings and a beautiful burnt titanium tip. They are designed to use efficient pipe routing to significantly increase power levels. Considering everything you are getting I think this exhaust system is a bargain.
• Manufacturer description: “Instead of creating an exhaust system that focuses only on maximum peak power, Tomei’s priority for this kit is overall engine performance gains. Each tube’s length and size are selected to suit the engine’s characteristics and chassis to maximize torque, response, and exhaust flow efficiency.The use of titanium combined with the single piping layout reduces overall weight from approximately 45 pounds to an ultra-low 10 pounds.”
• Purchase link: TOMEI Expreme Ti 350z exhaust

TOMEI Expreme V2 350z Exhaust Headers

• Manufacturer: TOMEI
• Fitment: Nissan 350z (z33) 2003-2008
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Buy the TOMEI Expreme 350z Exhaust Headers here

Our comment: TOMEI produces some great aftermarket parts for most JDM platforms, version 2 of the Expreme exhaust header is no exception. Excellent weld quality, high-end materials and dyno tested results make this a great fit for your 350z.

A nice feature is that this kit includes not only the fitting hardware but also a heat shield. You can read a great article about how they selected their tube design here.

TOMEI claim 5-15bhp (at the fly) from these headers, opting for a smaller 1.5″ pipe diameter to maximise airflow. Priced at a mid-level, these are an excellent choice for your 350z.

Manufacturer description: “The new Tomei Expreme exhaust manifold V2 design targets a sharper throttle response, a true race-exhaust sound, and increased power gains. Tomei tests their designs on both a dyno and in real road conditions in the Z Masters race series in Japan, so you know you are getting an exhaust manifold that gives you a competitive edge. This exhaust manifold gives you the high airflow you need for a better driving experience.“

“With the V2, Tomei has added a heat shield, thermal protector, and flexible thermal tube cover – eliminating hard-to-use thermal bandages – to the kit for added performance and to help reduce performance-robbing heat.“

• The Tomei Expreme exhaust manifold V2 is engineered for maximum performance
• The pipe bends are designed to maximize exhaust flow efficiency
• The merging section joint angles have been flow tested
• The smooth pipe layout
• Bolt on kit

Takeda Air Intake for Nissan 350z

• Manufacturer: Takeda
• Fitment: Nissan 350z (z33)/ Infinity G35 2003-2006
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Buy the Takeda Air Intake here

Our comment: Takeda is claiming that this high-quality cold air intake is going to bolt on an extra 19bhp and 16flt/lbs of torque to your 350z. That is a serious boost for under $300.

This is a well designed but simple kit that includes an aluminium short ram pipe with a Takeda Pro Dry S oil-less filter.

For the cost and the performance increase, this intake is rewarded with five stars. What a bargain.

Manufacturer description: “Takeda Retain is the Takeda Short Ram lineup. These intakes create simple, bolt-on horsepower that requires simple, quick installation and no bumper removal. Some of the short ram intakes include a wrinkle black heat shield.“

“Takeda Air Intake Systems use a revolutionary new Pro Dry S Filter Media that works without filter oil. This media is easier and faster to clean than traditional foam and requires no costly and messy solvents or oils. “

“Takeda filters can be cleaned in a matter of minutes and are ready to use after only a couple of hours of drying time. Unlike pre-oiled or disposable filters, Takeda Filters are Lifetime Filters that will last as long as you own your vehicle. “

JWT High Clamping Force HD 350Z Clutch Kit

• Manufacturer: Jim Wolf Technologies (JWT)
• Fitment: Nissan 350Z
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Buy the JWT 350Z clutch kit here

Our comment: JWT offers 350Z owners the clutch which is undoubtedly the most popular choice in our list with their clamping force HD kit. This, combined with their lightweight flywheel is the perfect choice for those who want the stock, OEM pedal feel but with a clutch that can handle a little more of a kicking.

Often regarded as the perfect option, this is ideal for daily driving and light track/drift use. If you’re intending to go down the higher-powered forced induction route, you may want to look for something a little more hardcore.

When coupled with the lightweight flywheel, the only complaints we’ve ever heard is about the amount of chatter noise, but it’s a small price to pay for such a fantastic option otherwise.

Manufacturer description: “1200KG clamping force and a smooth organic disc makes this the best choice for street/track 350Z-G35 including boosted cars!”

350z’s In Drifting

It comes as no surprise that the Z33 has been an extremely popular chassis within the drift scene throughout the years.

During the 2006 D1GP exhibition event at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Tanner Foust became the first competitor to achieve the perfect score of 100 whilst piloting his 350z. He eventually went on to take the 2007 Formula Drift title with the Rockstar-AEM 350z.

In the same year, Chris Forsberg also took the win at Round 2, also behind the wheel of his VK56-powered 350z, while Youichi Imamura also took the win at the Las Vegas US D1 series with his RB26DETT powered 350z.

In 2009 Tyler McQuarrie campaigned a pair of competitive 350z’s in Formula DRIFT. The first car was a 350z Roadster (convertible) and in 2011 he upgraded to a hardtop coupe. Tyler and his Z33 cars performed well in the championship, landing him numerous high scored qualifying positions and two outright wins; Las Vegas in 2010 and Irwindale in 2011.

Not only has the 350z been extremely popular and successful chassis in competitive drifting, but it also shot to fame when it was thrown sideways for the Hollywood movie, The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, with the lead character “Drift King” Takahashi behind the wheel.

As well as drifting, the 350z also continues to break records around the world in various other forms of motorsport. Check out this insane VQ35-powered 6-second 1,900hp drag car!

What’s next for the Fairlady?

If you’re already here, you most likely already know that the 350z’s successor, the 370z has already been on sale for quite a few years. Despite being a worthy upgrade, where we put the two head-to-head in this guide, the 370z is still out of the price range for many.

But what about looking to the future? What’s not quite so well-known is the fact that Nissan’s Vice President for Global Design claims that they’re already working on the 370z’s replacement, which could mean that the Fairlady dream can continue!

There are all sorts of rumors floating around as to what the new Z-car will look like, and how much power will be under the hood. Some are claiming it’ll be a 400z, with a 475hp powerplant and an AWD drivetrain, but we somehow doubt that will be the case.

Either way, we can’t wait to see what the future has in store, and we’re sure it’ll be worth the wait!

Conclusion

As you can probably tell, we’re huge fans of the 350z here at Drifted. They were a fantastic price when they were initially released to the new market, but now they’re simply an absolute bargain.

Whether you’re looking to purchase one as your first car, looking to strip one out and build a track weapon, or looking to slam it on its ass and head to the local stance meets, this is one car that ticks all the right boxes. (Well, unless you’re looking for rear doors, of course!)

With a satisfactory amount of power from the factory, and decent handling to match, the huge range of aftermarket modifications available makes transforming these easier than ever.

If you’re even considering purchasing one, we highly recommend that you go for a test drive and consider the true potential that it has to offer. Believe us when we say that there are very few cars out there on the market which have so much potential to offer for the money.

Additional 350z Related Content

We’ve chosen some of our favorite 350z YouTube picks here:

We love Best Motoring videos, if you’re a 350z fan, you’re gonna enjoy watching it teach some ‘superior’ cars a lesson on the track!

We have to admit, it’s a pretty cool car and video!

Sure, it may have an LS3 under the hood, but why the hell not?!

Adam LZ takes a ride in TJ Hunt’s 350z!

You didn’t think we were gonna let you leave without a sound compilation video, did you?!

Photography credits

Drifted would like to extend thanks to the following sources for use of their images:

• Wikipedia user Zach87
• Wikipedia user Ypy31

Planning to mod your Nissan 350Z? Check out our Ultimate Nissan 350z Modification Guide.

You can also check out our Ultimate Nissan 350z Buyer’s Guide.

If you’re looking for the best 350z lowering springs on the market, here’s our Ultimate 350z Lowering Springs Guide.

The post Ultimate Nissan 350z Guide – Everything You Need To Know first appeared on Drifted.com.

When Nissan unveiled their most recent addition to the much-loved Fairlady family, the 370Z immediately went on to take the tuning world by storm.

Got a G37 and looking for a supercharger? We have an Infiniti G37 supercharger guide.

The Japanese manufacturer got it all just right when it came to shedding weight whilst also improving the looks and handling over the 350Z.

However, many owners will argue that the 370Z left the factory with an underwhelming amount of horses packed under the hood of their 3.7 liter V6 VQ37VHR engine.

This is where tuning houses across the world were handed the perfect opportunity to squeeze more power from the tamed beast as they still maintain reliability to make an ideal option for daily driving and the track alike.

Not sure if a supercharger is the right upgrade for your Z34? Check out our 370Z turbo kit guide.

STILLEN to the rescue

Stillen initially had competition from GTM/Gamma Motorsport in the 370Z supercharging scene, however with the latter failing to stay in business, it’s safe to say that former 300ZX racing legend Steve Millen’s ‘STILLEN’ option is by far the best choice available on the market.

For those of you who don’t know already, Steve Millen is also the uncle of Formula Drift Champion Rhys Millen.

Take a quick look at the involved precision engineering of Steve Millen’s legendary 300ZX which handed him the most all-time wins in IMSA GTS history with 20 victories.

“Looking to extract more horsepower and torque from your 370Z, G37 or Q50? How does around 380HP at the wheels grab you?”

Since we assume you’ve already done the necessary upgrades to get the most out of your 370Z, such as a free-flowing exhaust, new fuel pump, flywheel, larger injectors, and coilovers, a supercharger from STILLEN engineers could well be the perfect compliment to end your quest for additional power!

With the STILLEN specialty being their 370Z kit opting for the Vortech V 3 centrifugal supercharger which is capable of producing typical results between 480-520hp (with supporting mods), the 50-state emissions compliant intercooled setup is available for purchase at Enjuku Racing.

Check out this awesome video where THE DRIVE head to the their factory to drive their fully custom 500hp 370Z:

Deciding your G37 supercharger options

Since the above option comes with a cable enabling you to put the preset tune file onto your ECU, you also have the option of a non-cable version of their polished-look supercharger kit if you want to get tuning done locally which is available here.

Should you have the Nismo offering of the 370Z, Stillen techs also have another kit which will be perfect for your needs, you can view all of their variations here.

Power on tap

One of the best things about the kit is that the setup to gift your Z with boosted goodness is straightforward with their off-the-shelf parts and a typical install time of just 12 hours.

“Scenery gets blurry-in-a-hurry as the centrifugal Vortech blower spins up to hyperspeed with a telltale hiss.”

If you’re on a quest for big power, the Vortech V3 is more than capable of huge power gains of over 500 horsepower with 9psi of intercooled boost pressure whilst delivering compressor efficiencies above 75%.

The V3 also benefits from a self-contained oiling system which is completely independent from the engine’s lubrication system.

The beast in action

We’ve searched the web to bring you some of the best offerings to decide whether supercharging is the ideal route for you.

Varying from dyno to full car reviews, we have no doubt that these videos will help you make your mind up!

DRIVN invite you to join them for a trip to the dyno where this stunning example of a 370Z pulls 410whp on the Stillen supercharger:

Test Drive Blogs give you a drive, walk-around, in-depth view and close-up look of the kit here in their video:

TheSmokingTire allow you the opportunity to get behind the wheel and experience how the supercharger feels when you hit the open road in this entertaining review.

The following quote was a personal highlight – “I don’t f**k around, I drive around with my dyno sheet in the car because people don’t believe me I’m just like ‘Read the sheet, man.”:

If you’re like us and are fascinated by the Nissan ‘Z’ series, check out Donut Media’s great video showing the history of these epic cars:

If dyno runs are your thing, Stillen have you covered as they show off a Nismo 370Z on the rolling road as they push the power output from 277 hp to 430 hp!

Tell me more!

Now that you’ve enjoyed the videos you’re probably more tempted than ever to supercharge your 370Z. Here’s some more helpful information from the manufacturer regarding their off-the-shelf kit from Enjuku Racing:

“Looking to extract more horsepower and torque from your 370Z, G37 or Q50? How does a typical output of around 380HP at the wheels grab you?”

“Add a dose of torque, better-than-stock heat management and airflow, 50 state emissions compliance and near stock fuel economy at low RPM. Now you’ve got the formula for superchargers done the STILLEN way.”

“We’re talking driveable horsepower too, suitable for daily drivers, canyon carvers and track days.”

“What does ‘driveable’ mean? Take an unsuspecting passenger for a low RPM cruise around town in your STILLEN supercharged Nissan 370Z, Infiniti G37 or Infiniti Q50. Keep a light touch on the gas pedal and they might be fooled into thinking there’s a bone stock motor under the hood.”

“They won’t suspect a thing….until you hit the town limit sign and crack the throttle wide open.”

“Scenery gets blurry-in-a-hurry as the centrifugal Vortech blower spins up to hyperspeed with a telltale hiss. The STILLEN designed and built intake manifold sucks in cubic yards of cool air to keep the temps down low. The remapped ECU fuel management module jacks the boosted fuel pump to inject the precise amount of high octane cocktail into the maelstrom.”

“Your right foot is orchestrating a symphony of controlled violence that delivers a linear, bottomless powerband. If you can peel your head off the headrest to sneak a glance at your passenger you’ll see instant enlightenment and heavy G’s at work.”

The design

“STILLEN designed a new cast aluminum intake manifold specifically for this system, featuring longer runners and a large plenum for the engine to have improved airflow. An integrated air-to-water intercooler system dramatically cools the air charge from the Vortech Supercharger unit for better engine health.”

“The V-3 features a self-contained oiling system and quiet V-belt design, with plenty of additional boost capability for those wanting even more power down the road for a thrilling driving experience without spending extra on a hood replacement.”

“STILLEN took extreme care and had year-long development in designing this system’s engine entry point to fit under the stock hood, ensuring that all additional coolers (oil, transmission, power steering, etc) would work with the intercooler system, as the Nissan VQ37 engine is prone to high oil temperatures unless provided with cool air flow.”

“At all levels of development the system was tested, with individual results for street drivability and reliability under normal traffic and freeway conditions. Stillen drivers flogged the test car at El Toro Air Base, with repeated 140+ mph runs and hard driving on tight courses with excessive revving and redlining. The testing process included extensive monitoring of all pertinent air and fluid temperatures.”

“They won’t suspect a thing… Until you hit the town limit sign and crack the throttle wide open.”

Cable or non-cable?

“To tune these supercharger systems STILLEN works with UPRev software. This software requires a license and a tuner cable to load the tune into the vehicle’s ECU. The With Cable option is designed for customers who may not live near an UPrev certified tuner or for a dealership who is completing the installation. This is also a great solution for the DIY guy looking to install the kit in his garage.”

“The “without cable” option is supplied with all of the hardware and the tune. This solution is good for someone who is working with an UPrev pro tuner that already has the licenses and loading cable for the reflash of the ECU fuel management settings in their facility. This way you don’t need to pay extra for something you might already have access to. Either way, the tune is the same.”

Ease of installation

“One of the hallmarks of a STILLEN supercharger system tuner kit is ease of installation. Much of the assembly of the kit is completed here at STILLEN before we pack and ship your supercharger. The main supercharger unit is pre-assembled to the laser-cut billet aluminum mounting brackets. The kit has a very straight forward installation, including detailed step-by-step instructions in fine print. Typical install time for a competent shop is 12 hours.”

“Much of the assembly of the kit is completed here by our supercharger experts at STILLEN. The main supercharger unit is pre-assembled to the laser-cut billet aluminium mounting brackets. Installation is very straight forward, including detailed step-by-step instructions, requiring a typical shop 12 hours on a particular day for the complete install.”

We hope you’ve enjoyed our review of the Nissan 370Z Stillen complete supercharger kit, don’t forget to visit our friends over at Enjuku Racing to find the perfect kit to suit your needs!

If you’re on the hunt to add an additional level of modification to your 370Z, make sure you check out our 370z intake and 370z header guides.

Wanting to upgrade your Nissan 370Z? Here’s our Ultimate Nissan 370z Mods Guide.

Photography credits

We thank the following entities for use of their photography in this article:

• conceptzperformance.com
• blog.stillen.com
• www.zcarblog.com
• dsportmag.com

The post Ultimate Nissan 370Z Supercharger Guide first appeared on Drifted.com.

• BMW E36 M3
• Nissan 350Z
• Nissan Skyline R33 GTS-T
• Mazda MX-5/Miata NB
• Nissan 240sx S14
• BMW E46 M3
• Toyota JZX-90
• Nissan 180sx
• Toyota Corolla AE86
• Mazda RX-7 FD3S
• Mazda RX-8
• Mercedes C230 Kompressor
• Lexus IS200
• Infiniti G35
• Toyota GT86/BRZ/FR-S
• Ford Mustang GT

Introducing: The best beginner drift cars

With so many potential platforms to choose from when picking your first drift car, getting the perfect ride can prove a little challenging.

For just that reason, I have written this guide to provide you with the cars that myself and the Drifted team think are solid choices when it comes to choosing a beginner drift car.

Best drift cars list

New to the world of drifting?

Well then, you need to check out our drifting tips for beginners article. It is also worth having a look at our Drifting 101 guide. If you prefer things a bit more “hands on” then try a bit of sideways action with the Drift Hunters game.

Ready to start on your drifing journey? Let’s see some cars!

BMW M3 E36

The BMW M3 is the mainstay drifting car for many countries around the world, this is especially true in Europe where the number E36 and E46 models on track even outnumber the s-bodies.

With solid German engineering underpinning every aspect of the car, high performing naturally aspirated engines, and great looks it is no big surprise that this is a great drifting platform.

The E36 offered 3.0 litre straight six engines which ran through five-speed manual transmissions and limited slip differentials. In European trim the engine produced 282 bhp as standard.

E36 examples are plentiful and relatively cheap for the performance that they offer. This would be a solid, low cost entry into the drifting world and could also be a great platform for a street sleeper.

With BMW M3 prices continuing to increase in recent years, it may also be worth considering one of the modern-day 3 Series options.

Browse BMW E36 articles

• BMW E36 Coilover Guide

Nissan 350Z

The Nissan 350Z was released in 2003 to rave reviews, this car was the latest in the ‘Z’ car lineage and carried many of the traits that made the cars before it a great success with sports car fans of the period.

The 350Z was built by Nissan in the classic sports car drivetrain configuration of front engine and rear wheel drive. Oh, and did I mention its retro-inspired looks?

As standard, the cars came with a bulletproof 3.5 litre V6 engine producing 287bhp at the flywheel which was put to the tarmac through a six speed manual transmission and a limited slip differential.

These mechanical assets make the Nissan 350Z a perfect beginners drift car; a potent and tough power plant mated with a manual gearbox and a limited slip differential ensure that as you learn the ropes and increase your drifting abilities this car should see you through until you feel ready to substantially increase your car’s power level.

If you end up loving this platform there are forced induction options available for the V6 engine (depending on your budget) so the Nissan 350z could well be your perfect partner.

With the 350Z’s sibling, the 370Z, now becoming increasingly affordable, more drifting beginners than ever opting for the modern-day Z as their weapon of choice.

Wondering if you should take a 350Z or save up for a 370z? Try our 350z vs 370z guide to see which Z car is the right fit for you.

Browse Nissan 350Z articles

• 350Z Buyer’s Guide
• Ultimate 350Z Mods Guide
• 350Z Turbo kit guide
• 350Z Exhaust Guide
• 350Z Coilover Guide
• 350Z Front Bumper Guide
• 350Z LS Swap Guide
• 350Z Seat Buying Guide
• 350Z Front Lip Guide
• 350Z Rear Diffuser Guide
• 350Z Wing Guide
• 350Z Lowering Springs
• 350Z Wheels Guide
• 350Z Bash Bar Guide
• 350Z Wheel Spacers Guide
• 350Z Battery Guide
• VQ35DE – Everything You Need To Know

Nissan Skyline R33 GTS-T

The Nissan Skyline is a high-performance sports coupe with a lineage going as far back and as equally impressive as the Nissan ‘Z’ cars.

The model we have picked for this guide is the R33 GTS-T, this model was built between 1993 and 1998 and offers some great features for the aspiring drifter.

The R33 GTS-T uses a 2.5 litre straight six RB25DET engine mated to an efficient turbo charger. The power is fed through a five speed manual transmission and into a limited slip differential.

This six-cylinder engine produced a healthy 280bhp from the factory and there is proven power potential of up to 400bhp with a few bolt on modifications.

As standard there is plenty of power to hone your skills plus the potential is there if you want to up the power.

There are many Skyline owner’s clubs available to help you out if you want to do your own mechanical work or face problems, which is always a bonus.

There is also very strong aftermarket support for the R33 so you can customise it to your heart’s content. A good solid choice.

If you are interested in importing your own Nissan Skyline into the US, then you best check out this article first: Why are Nissan Skylines illegal in the United States?

Mazda MX-5/Miata NB

There is a popular saying among gearheads that goes “Miata is always the answer!” The same applies here, as we believe anyone who is on the hunt for a great entry-level drift car should definitely have the MX-5 on their radar.

The MX-5 (Europe/EDM), also known as the Miata (US/USDM) and Eunos (Japan/JDM) is a classic Japanese take on the iconic drop-top sports car concept. The original model was unveiled in 1989 and went on to become one of the best-selling sports cars of all time.

The NB designation refers to the second generation of the model of this fun roadster, this version received many improvements over the original including a useful hike in power output.

We recommend the 1.8 litre option as the four-cylinder engine offers 138 bhp on tap, which is plenty for any drifter starting out.

The car offers solid and reliable mechanicals throughout and is naturally aspirated.

This means that improving the power output will be challenging without spending out on forced induction and the supporting modifications needed to run it.

Great aftermarket support and active enthusiast communities mean it should be a good platform to adopt. Prices are very reasonable. Please note: Drifted’s own Dan H’s MX-5 NA pictured, not an NB (sorry but I love Dan’s car!).

Browse Mazda Miata / MX-5 articles

• Ultimate Miata Mods Guide
• Mazda Miata Coilover Guide
• Ultimate Miata Supercharger Guide
• Ultimate Mazda Miata Exhaust Guide
• Ultimate Miata Engine Swap Guide
• Ultimate Mazda Miata Cold Air Intake Guide
• Ultimate Miata Turbo Kit Guide
• Ultimate Miata Battery Guide
• Ultimate Mazda Miata Wheel Guide
• Ultimate Miata LED Headlight Guide

Nissan 240sx S14

If you ask someone to imagine a drift car, we can guarantee that 9 out of 10 people will imagine the Nissan 240sx.

No drift cars list could ever be complete without at least one generation of Nissan’s 240sx being mentioned, this car (after the expensive AE86) is the recognised face of drifting with hundreds of the cars around the globe being used in both grassroots and pro levels.

We have picked the S14 variant as there are plenty still available (the S13 is becoming rarer and more sought after and therefore more valuable), they offer a solid engine package and come with great looks.

The 240sx S14 houses a 2.4 litre naturally aspirated engine that produces 155 bhp, this is fed into a five speed manual transmission and put onto the tarmac through a limited slip differential as standard.

The lightweight chassis means you do not need a lot of power to get the 240sx loose at the rear end and the natural balance will help you learn faster than with many other cars.

The aftermarket support for this platform is huge so you can pick up a standard example, learn the ropes and this car can grow with you by introducing upgraded aftermarket parts – if you want it to.

A great option for the drifting beginner, highly recommended.

Browse Nissan 240sx / 200sx articles

• Ultimate Nissan S14 Coilover Guide
• KA24DE – The Ultimate Motor Guide
• Ultimate KA24DE Turbo Kit Guide

BMW M3 E46

The BMW M3 E46 was the more powerful and better-looking younger brother of the E36. The engine performance was increased to an impressive 338 bhp out of the box with the inclusion of a new inline six-cylinder engine that has proven to be bulletproof to this day.

Everything that applies to the E36 above also applies to this car with the exception that they are on the higher end of the price range.

The E46 is a staple part of the drifting landscape with one powering Michael Essa to a Formula Drift win in recent years. If you can afford to stretch to an E46 M3 you will not be disappointed.

With prices continually increasing on the older-generation M3’s, while modern-day M3 and M4 prices drop, it may well be worth considering the latest platform if the M3 is already an option. Keep in mind that the latest G80 M3 will be the last of its kind to be offered with a manual transmission.

Browse BMW E46 articles

• BMW E46 M3 Exhaust Guide
• BMW E46 M3 Supercharger Guide
• BMW E46 Coilover Guide
• DRIFT CAR: 2JZ E46

Toyota JZX-90

Here’s a car that you might have never heard of. The Toyota Mark II has been active in the drift scene in Japan and Asia since the early nineties however in the West these JDM cars have been a rare sight on the road.

As these cars have gotten older and more affordable they are seeing their way across the ocean and are popping up on our shores in increasing numbers.

In most markets these cars are at a price point lower than the E46 M3 mentioned in this guide and they offer many benefits the beginner drifter would do well to consider.

Packing a potent and highly tuneable straight six 2.5 litre 1JZ-GTE Specs turbo charged engine the JZX-90 is not lacking for power or for tuning potential.

The transmission was a five-speed manual and it featured a limited-slip differential as standard.

This big, luxury four-door sedan offers an easy road into drifting with a well-balanced chassis and fast engine response.

If you can get one in your country, this would be my pick of the bunch for a beginner’s drift car that not only drives well, but also looks and sounds the part.

If you’re a JZX fan, make sure you check out this insane Toyota JZX-100 build from Daigo Saito.

Browse Toyota Chaser articles

• 1JZ Vs 2JZ – Which Is Best?

Nissan 180sx

The JDM Nissan 180sx is one of the icons of the drifting world. Launched back in 1989 with a potent turbocharged CA18DET under the hood, the lightweight and RWD FR platform was a hit with both mountain touge racers and track enthusiasts.

The car was equipped with a limited slip differential and it’s great natural balance made it a little easier to get the hang of the tricky drifting learning curve.

As the years went by Nissan decided to upgrade the CA18DET with their new SR20DET powerplant, this engine produced over 200bhp out the box and was tuneable up to 400bhp with just bolt-ons and tuning.

The 180sx aftermarket is one of the largest available today, with everything from aero parts, engine components and drivetrain upgrades available off the shelf.

Right now in 2023, the 180sx has appreciated in value and is a little out of reach from budget drifters. However, if you can get your hands on one, and if you take care of it, the Nissan 180sx will make both a superb road and drift car.

Browse Nissan 180sx articles

• CA18DET Vs SR20DET- Which One Is Better And Why?
• Ultimate SR20DET Turbo Guide
• Hiro’s 180sx car feature
• The Perfectionist 180sx car feature

Toyota Corolla AE86

Here we are at last, the Hachi Roku (hachi-roku meaning “eight six”), the Drift King’s trusted steed – Toyota’s mighty AE86. I had left this car out of the beginners guide so far due to the rising value of the “twincam” AE86.

These iconic drift cars are now so valuable you’d have to be very financially well-heeled, to buy one, let alone to drift it!

But really, no drift car guide is complete without the AE86 so let’s crack on…

The plucky little Toyota offers a wonderfully balanced front engine, rear-wheel-drive platform. Nestled up front is the naturally aspirated 4A-GE inline four-cylinder DOHC powerplant which develops 128bhp @ 6,600rpm. This power was put through the rear wheels with an optional limited slip differential.

Back in the eighties safety restrictions were nothing like today so manufacturers had a lot of scope to create lightweight cars. Toyota managed to keep the kerb weight to just under a ton. This light weight and solid power are a perfect recipe for a nippy little sports car.

There are plenty of tuning options, engine swaps, aero kits and parts available for the little Corolla, there are even AE86 dedicated part suppliers based in Ireland and Japan.

If you can afford one, you will love the Hachi Roku. Keiichi salutes you!

Browse Toyota Corolla AE86 articles

• Keiihci Tsuchiya’s AE86 car feature
• 7 Epic AE86 Roundup

Mazda RX-7 FD3S

The third generation of Mazda’s RX-7 line, the FD3S, is a great choice for a budding drifter. Stunning looks, great aftermarket support, potent powerplant and a finely tuned chassis make the FD3S a great choice.

The Mazda RX-7 enjoyed a long and successful career, with the model receiving numerous upgrades and improvements as it was revised for each iteration. The initial cars were called Series 6 cars (1992-1995), Series 7 cars (1996-1998) gained more power, improved engineering and revised looks.

The final Series 8 cars (1998-2002) are the most desirable, with a slew of updates covering power, interior and exterior. This culminated in the Spirit R – the ultimate RX-7.

The RX-7 uses the 13B-REW twin-rotor engine, running twin sequential turbochargers. The nature of the rotary engines means RX-7 drivers enjoy a huge powerband, the car pulling hard all the way to the redline. The downsides of this powerplant are fuel economy, heat generation and potentially “apex seal” failure.

Most RX-7’s on the market today will have already had an engine rebuild, however, I would still budget in a rebuild if you are planning on beating on the car (let’s be honest, of course you will!).

The FD3S has some excellent aftermarket support, many specialists worldwide support the platform, especially in Japan which has several dedicated RX-7 tuning houses.

The large displacement offered by the rotary engine means it will spool up turbochargers very effectively, so single turbo conversions are very common within the RX-7 community. This means the drivetrain has potential for big power.

If you can find a good one, that has been looked after and has had the right parts upgraded, it will make a fine drift car.

I ran an FD3S for a year, it was tuned with a single turbo to 350bhp and was great fun, spinning up second and third gears in the dry. The fun lasted until I needed to gas the tank up – I calculated it achieved less then 10mpg! Ouch.

Mazda RX-8

Let us take a small detour from traditional piston engines to one shaped like a Dorito. With RX-7 prices continuing to soar, yet RX-8’s popping up on the market cheaper than ever, this younger brother of the FD could be the perfect answer for those looking to get into drifting.

The RX-8’s four-seat cockpit is bedazzled with rear-opening suicide doors, making it more practical than the FD RX-7 too!

Weighing in at just 1,309kg, the RX-8 makes the perfect candidate for an engine swap further down the line if you’re like us and terrified of rotary maintenance!

If you’re brave and you’ve got deep pockets, you could even consider taking it back to its original 13B heritage.

With its sleek shape, rear suicide doors, incredible handling, and insanely cheap price tag, the Mazda RX-8 is a fantastic car that can present a real bargain.

Browse Mazda RX-8 articles

• RX-8 Turbo Kit Guide
• RX-8 Coilover Guide
• RX-8 Exhaust Guide

Mercedes C230 Kompressor (W202)

Mercedes is probably one of the last car manufacturers that you would think of when it comes to finding an ideal drift car for beginners, but let us surprise you with this entry to our list.

The W202 C Class 230 Kompressor, which in short is a supercharged 2.3 litre, 4 cylinder engine is the perfect drift car for a beginners to start with and is comes recommended by Dan from YourCar.co.uk, who is currently building one.

From the factory, it has 190 BHP and 280 LB/FT of torque from the bulletproof M111 engine that can take abuse all day long.

They were produced from 1993 to 2000 and with the predecessor being the mighty 190E. In around 2012, they could have been picked up for around £500 but have creeped up to around the £1,000 mark these days.

Manual C230 Kompressors are becoming harder to find but there are still many around and loads of spares parts available.

An alternative to the C230 could be the 2.5 turbo diesels but modified by fitting a larger turbo but this will become an expensive drift car to begin with.

Lexus IS200 / Altezza (XE10)

The Lexus IS200 (or Altezza in Japan) was one of Lexus’s most sporty cars when it was released back in 1998.

Nobuaki Katayama (lead engineer on the AE86 project) was responsible for the technical development of this car.

Nobuaki-san’s efforts paid off as the car won Japan’s prestigious “Car of the Year” honour when it was released and continued to retain the title until 1999. The car was praised for its stylish looks, luxurious cabin, high revving engine and solid handling dynamics provided by the classic FR layout.

Now, in 2020, this compact and sporty sedan is a very tempting proposition for a beginner’s drift car.

These cars are widely available in most Western markets, normally well under the USD 1k range. They come with the reliable 1G-FE BEAMS engine, a front-engine and rear-wheel-drive platform plus a limited-slip differential as standard.

Although the power output of 158 bhp and 147 lb-ft of torque isn’t going to set anybody’s hair on fire, it is plenty to allow you to break traction and learn how to get to grips with the car.

The US market was also blessed with the IS200’s bigger brother, the IS300 which came equipped with a 2JZ variant, but, as these cars are more desirable, they will command considerably more cash.

While tuning potential is limited by the naturally aspirated engine, some owner’s that wanted to keep hold of this platform have been known to add mild superchargers onto the engine, this typically brings power up to the 250-300 bhp mark.

Overall this is a great drift car for a beginner and certainly worth keeping an eye out in the local classifieds for.

However, if you can get your hands on an IS300, it’s likely to be the better choice if you’re looking to keep the car long-term, with plenty of upgrades available for the naturally-aspirated 2JZ.

Check out my favorite IS300 turbo kits, coilover kits, exhaust upgrades, and body kit options to see the potential that it has in store.

Infiniti G35 Coupe

The Infiniti G35 is the second car on our list to utilize Nissan’s potent VQ35DE engine. The G35 is an upmarket version of the 350Z platform aimed at a more “premium” target audience. Classy looks, a high-quality interior, and better components separated the G35 from it’s cheaper cousin.

The classic drift car recipe is fully represented in the G35; a powerful and high revving V6 engine, manual transmission, front engine and rear-wheel-drive layout, and a limited-slip differential (on manual models).

While the car tipped the scales a little more than the 350Z, stripping the interior of all those lovely materials makes a big difference and helps to boost performance for no cost.

And when we talk about boosting performance, the G35’s VQ35DE really is ripe for the tuning.

From off the shelf supercharger and turbocharger kits to a plethora of NA upgrades, the G35 is a platform that can grow with you as you get to grips with the art of drifting and you want more from your car.

The fact that these cars are quite plentiful in supply and are becoming very affordable is just another reason this may be the perfect beginners’ drift car.

I strongly encourage you to consider an Infiniti G35 for your first drift car.

With Infiniti G37 prices continuing to fall in recent years, it could now present the perfect opportunity to get your hands on the G35’s younger, more powerful sibling.

We’ve weighed up the positives and negatives of both platforms in our G35 vs G37 guide to help make the decision easier.

If you think the G37 may be the ideal choice, make sure you head over to our G37 mods guide to learn how you can unleash its true potential.

Browse Infiniti G35 articles

• Infiniti G35 Guide – Everything You Need To Know
• Infiniti G35 Tuning Guides
• Infiniti G35 Turbo Kit Guide
• Infiniti G35 Vs Nissan 350z – What’s Best?

Toyota GT86/Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S

After already securing its spot as one of the best drift chassis’ ever built, the Toyobaru is finally starting to fall in price and become more affordable to beginners that are willing to spend a few extra bucks.

With stunning, modern looks, and plenty of gadgets to match, the GT86 is the perfect drift car for those looking for something more recent to enjoy.

Since Toyota recently announced the 2022 GR 86, GT86/BRZ/FR-S prices will likely continue coming down, which is excellent news for drifting fans!

With the GT86 already capturing numerous podiums in drifting competitions across the globe, there’s no question that this epic platform has insane potential.

Admittedly, it doesn’t come with a massive amount of power from the factory, but luckily for our readers, we’ve written several GT86 Tuning Guides to show you how to unleash its potential.

The GT86/BRZ/FR-S are fantastic, stylish, modern-day drift cars with an ever-dropping price tag, and we’re already eyeing them up as future candidates for our personal goals.

The reign of the GT86/BRZ/FR-S came to an end in 2021, with a brand new, slide happy successor taking its place. We’ll talk more about the car that replaced the GT86 later on in this article.

Browse Toyota GT86 articles

• GT86 Exhaust Guide
• GT86 Turbo Kit Guide
• GT86 Supercharger Guide
• GT86 Coilover Guide

Ford Mustang GT

Thanks in part to its appearance in great car movies like Bullitt and Gone In 60 Seconds, the Ford Mustang has cemented its legacy as one of the most popular vehicles on the planet.

The history of the Ford Mustang goes back to the 1960s, and it continues to thrive in the drift scene to the present day.

While the most affordable Mustang on the used car market is the Fox Body, the newer GT model can also be picked up at an affordable price for many.

That’s not all; the Mustang’s fifth-generation model, which earned an unfortunate reputation for its crowd-hunting antics, also provides a roaring V8 soundtrack at a reasonable price point, with legendary aesthetics to match.

Brazilian champion Diego Higa went on to prove what this chassis was truly capable of by taking the win in the Hyperdrive series.

Sara Haro also managed to impress on the world stage with her near-stock V6 model.

As Chelsea DeNofa and Vaughn Gittin Jr continue to prove what the wheelie-poppin’ RTR chassis has to offer in the present day in Formula Drift, there’s no doubt of the Mustang’s potential capabilities.

These are all great drift cars, but where is the 240sx S13?

So the 240sx S13, arguably the “go-to” car for many drifters.. While it has been omitted from this list, Nissan’s 240sx S13 does indeed make a great beginner’s drift car. But, as we had already included the talented 180SX it seemed a little too much of the same to include it’s stateside brother. For detailed information on the S13 check out our Nissan S13 article.

An off the wall alternative to the drift cars we have mentioned already could be this truck. The truck is a mid 90’s Nissan that shares a similar floor-plan to the 240sx and also shares the KA engine and running gear. Truck drifting yeah!

Drift car frequently asked questions (FAQ)

I originally penned this article back in 2016, and I have been updating it every year since. Since it has been live for a number of years, I have received many questions about the article, and drift cars specifically. Here is a quick Q&A summary of those questions:

What are good drift cars?

A selection of good drift cars in 2023 are: Nissan 350Z, Lexus IS300, Mazda Miata, Toyota JZX-90, BMW E46 M3, Ford Mustang GT, Scion FR-S/BRZ/GT86 and Nissan 240SX.

What are the best cheap drift cars?

The best cheap drift cars in 2023 are: Mazda Miata, Lexus IS200, Infiniti G35, BMW E36, and the Mazda RX-8. If you want to go deeper on the budget side of drift cars, we have created a comprehensive guide for cheap drift cars.

What are the best drift cars?

If budget is no issue, the best drift cars are: Toyota AE86, Mazda RX-7, Toyota JZX-100, Nissan 180SX, Nissan Silvia (S15), Nissan 370Z and the Nissan Skyline GTS-T (R33/R34).

What cars can drift?

Any front engine, rear wheel drive car can drift. The best drift cars have certain characteristics out of the box to make it easier, these include excellent weight distribution, high engine power with additional tuning potential, and a limited slip differential.

Have you considered an RC drift car?

If you are not yet old enough to get behind the wheel of that first drift car, or perhaps your living accomodation won’t support another “toy” car, then why not start your drifting journey with an RC drift car? RC drift cars offer a lot of the same thrills with a lot less of the spills. If you are looking for a drift car themed present, then a Micro RC car from our Micro RC cars guide should be right up your street.

Thank you for reading my article article. If you enjoyed it, please share it using the social buttons.

If you’re leaning more into Trucks, we have the perfect JDM Trucks list for you.

If you’re looking into JDM AWD Cars, you can check the top models in the market on our list here.

The post 17 Best Drift Cars For Beginners first appeared on Drifted.com.

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• CXRacing LS1 Turbo Kit
• Jump to winner

Tired of your homies calling your LS a junkyard engine, but if they called it a ridiculous junkyard engine with a big-ass turbo strapped to it, then you’d be over the moon? You’ve come to the right place!

Jokes aside, the LS1 has some serious untamed potential lying in wait. Whether you’re looking to buy an off-the-shelf turbo kit, use a knowledgeable tuning shop for a custom build, or wanting to carry out a budget turbo conversion by yourself, this guide will help you decide what’s best.

GM initially introduced its small-block engine way back in 1955, and even then, it didn’t take long to become a hit with automotive enthusiasts, particularly in the drag racing scene.

Following the success of the small block, after a successful re-launch with the LT1 in 1992, GM opted to take it to the next level as rival manufacturers started unleashing the crazy beasts of the 90s era.

Interested to know more about how the LT1 stacks up against the LS1? We’ve put them head to head in our LT1 Vs LS1 guide.

When 1997 finally arrived, GM was ready to unveil the redesigned from the ground up, lightweight, all-aluminium LS1 engine which they’d been preparing for several years.

When Chevrolet announced the Corvette C5, it would be the first car to feature the LS1 under the hood.

It was undoubtedly the perfect combination to put the U.S. car scene back on the map at a time where the rest of the globe was rolling out some incredible machinery.

This lightweight, small-block V8 instantly became a game-changer in the tuning world, as people quickly realized the true capabilities that were just waiting to be unleashed from this impressively small and light package.

Not only was the weight a serious advantage, but it also had the added benefits of warming up and cooling down far quicker than its cast-iron brother, the LT1.

With 345hp and 350ft/lb torque in stock form, it was certainly no slouch. Also, if you’re lucky enough to have got your hands on a post-2000 LS1, then chances are you’ll have 350hp and 365ft/lb torque. That’ll come as a welcome surprise if you’re not already aware!

Even though it came with a decent amount of power, who can resist keeping it stock when your buddies have already started freeing up the sleeping horses and causing an upset on the street, or the track?

There’s no secret that plenty of LS parts are interchangeable between the various engines that they went on to produce in the following years after the LS1 initially hit the market.

You can check out our LS1 Vs LS2 guide to see some of the changes that were made between the two engines.

This benefit adds to the convenience of sourcing parts and also tapping into the easily-access tuning potential that it has to offer.

But what if you want to achieve the most impressive power gains that the LS1 is capable of providing, by strapping an epic turbo kit to unleash the inner beast? Let’s take a look.

Should I Turbocharge My LS1?

Before we jump into the world of strapping a turbo on your LS1, we’re going to ensure that it’s the route you want to go down, although turbos are INSANELY fun, the LS-platform does have a few cheaper tricks up its sleeve.

First off, what kind of power levels are you really hoping to achieve?

For example, as we spoke about previously, the LS is notoriously easy to squeeze some substantial gains out of without needing to go down the turbocharged, or even forced induction route, even if they won’t provide nearly as much fun.

If you’d happily settle for around 500hp of N/A power at the flywheel, you’re not going to need to go down the turbo route, and it could save you a lot of time and hassle.

A simple mod list like the following would be enough to help you hit these figures:

• LS6 intake manifold (which is already included on some 2001-onwards cars)
• Long tube headers
• Ported stock throttle body
• Uprated camshaft
• Uprated exhaust
• Underdrive pulleys
• Dyno tune
• Cold air induction kit

Alternatively, there are also various supercharger options available if you’re looking for more subtle power delivery.

Not sure what the difference is between a turbocharger and a supercharger? We’ve written our Turbocharger Vs Supercharger article just for you.

However, if those kind of performance figures aren’t enough, and you can’t resist the awesome sounds and neck-whipping power delivery that only a turbo kit can provide, then don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

We’ve compiled a list of the best off-the-shelf, bolt-on (or almost) kits that are available to buy on the market right now.

Trust us, we’ve given it a shot at creating our turbo kits in the past, and it’s not something that we’ll be considering again anytime soon!

So, unless you’re an experienced fabricator, or lucky enough to have your best buddy that’s talented in the fab department and owes you a few favors, this is likely to be your best bet.

Several of the commonly-used kits over the years are now discontinued (some for the better). Although these may well pop up on the used market, we’re only going to take a look at what’s available to get your hands on right now.

Are you a 350z owner that’s considering an LS swap, or know someone needs to V8-swap their Z? We’ve got you covered with our 350z LS Swap guide.

We think you will enjoy this YouTube video from Hackshop Garage that shows them adding a turbo to the side of their LS1 V8 VY “Ute”.

On3Performance LS1 Turbo Kit

• Manufacturer: On3Performance
• Fitment: Camaro/Trans-Am
• Turbo configuration: Single & twin turbo
• Value for money:
• Purchase links:

Buy the On3Performance 1998-02 Camaro Turbo System (AC Deleted) Turbo Kit here

Buy the On3Performance 1998-02 Camaro Turbo System (AC Retained) Turbo Kit here

Buy the On3Performance 1998 – 2002 Camaro / Trans-am Twin Turbo System Turbo Kit here

Our comment: On3Performance has received mixed opinions on their LS1 turbo kit, but a lot of owners have come away satisfied with their long-term results.

There’s no question that you could piece together an On3Performance LS1 turbo kit for a reasonable price, as it’s one of the cheaper options in our guide.

With a combination of mixed feedback from both their products and their approach to handling issues with customers, it does boil down to the all-too-common phrase in the car world, ‘you get what you pay for.’

We think that customer satisfaction is paramount at Drifted, and On3Performance hasn’t got the best reputation went it comes to post-purchase experiences.

Unlike the other kits in our guide, this requires a pump for the oil on the turbo, but On3Performance has recently added an optional ‘gravity drain kit,’ which is compulsory if you wish to maintain your turbo warranty.

If you’ve managed to source yourself a cheap On3Performance kit and you’re capable of making some adjustments if necessary, then it may be worth considering.

Alternatively, if you find a bargain-price used kit on the market in good condition that’s already modified to fit perfectly, then it could be an ideal solution.

Manufacturer description: “We have worked on this design for a long time now and pleased to now offer this kit to the public. If you want to have serious power potential and have a system that looks absolutely killer under the hood, look no further.“

“This kit offers a lot of our newest design products and cannot be happier with the results to this point during our testing stages.“

STS Rear-Mounted LS1 Turbo Kit

• Manufacturer: STS
• Fitment: 1997-2004 Corvette
• Turbo configuration: Twin turbo
• Value for money:
• Purchase links:

Buy the STS Turbo Remote Mounted Twin Turbo System & Fuel Injectors Without Hand-Held for 1997-2000 Corvette here

Buy the STS Turbo Remote Mounted Twin Turbo System & Fuel Injectors Without Hand-Held for 1991-2004 Corvette here

Buy the STS Turbo Remote Mounted Twin Turbo System & Fuel Injectors Without Hand-Held for 2001-2004 Corvette here

Our comment: STS offers a wide variety of popular rear/remote mounted twin-turbo options for the LS engine, for those of you that are looking for a convenient alternative.

They have an excellent reputation within the LS community, and certainly one of the biggest fan-bases out there.

If you’re not already familiar with their rear-mounted turbo kits, then you may be surprised to hear that they sit at the rear-end of the car rather than the usual mounting position that we’re used to seeing under the hood.

As you’ve probably guessed, this comes with certain advantages and disadvantages. The main advantage is that it can be far easier to access the system should you need to carry out any maintenance or repairs.

Squeezing turbos under the hood can sometimes be a challenge, especially in some of the tighter engine bays, so having the turbo’s at the rear of the car is far more convenient.

As for the disadvantages, the main downside is the spool from the gases having to travel such a substantial distance compared to front-mounted turbos. This generally makes them more ideal for cars with auto transmission due to being able to keep the revs higher between gear changes.

On top of that, the kit also sits a little low at the back, especially for lowered car owners.

Being fully exposed at the rear can also mean it has more chance of collecting rain/debris, but STS has since provided water/dirt shields and dry socks in an attempt to correct this.

The final advantage/disadvantage can be positive or negative, depending on your approach to tuning. The kit is visible from the rear of the car, which doesn’t make it ideal if you’re going for the sleeper look, but if you’re looking for attention, then it may be perfect.

There are some mixed reviews on the quality/fitment of the kits, so again, we would expect to make some minor tweaks, but the overall feedback is hugely positive.

Although the price seems high compared to some of the other alternatives, this kit is ready to run, where almost all of the others will require multiple additional components.

Manufacturer description: “STS Turbo systems overcome the challenges of traditional turbo installations by mounting the turbos at the rear of your car. This allows you to retain stock exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, and mid pipes.“

“Stock intake and throttle body can also be retained if desired. Relocating the turbos to the rear helps avoid adding additional heat under your hood and you won’t have to worry about clearance or interference issues with the belts, pulleys, or accessories in the engine bay.“

“You’ll also get better weight transfer since the turbos are in the rear and not adding additional weight to the front of your vehicle.“

PTK LS1 Turbo Kit

• Manufacturer: PTK
• Fitment: 98-02 LS1 F-body, 97-04 Corvette C5
• Turbo configuration: Single & twin turbo
• Value for money:
• Purchase links: Discontinued

Our comment: Another great off-the-shelf turbo kit choice for your LS1 comes from PTK, with their single, or twin-turbo systems for your LS1.

These are another highly-regarded company with an excellent reputation for both quality and customer service.

Some owners have recommended adding a turbo brace since the turbo flange section can crack at the v-band flange. It may also need some additional minor adjustments to fit perfectly, like almost all of the kits out there.

We’ve been informed of some ground-clearance issues on lowered cars, but this may have been rectified in time. We’d recommend speaking to them with regards to this if you do have a lowered car.

This setup is popular, and often replicated within the cheaper ‘eBay kit’ community, so it’s worth checking that it’s a genuine PTK kit if you’re planning to cop one on the used market.

The PTK LS1 turbo kit is great all-rounder, whether you’re looking to purchase a new or used setup.

Manufacturer description: “Almost all kits can be customized with different Intercooler and Turbo. Also fuel components can be added as well as Coating to the headers.“

“Complete kits come coated with Silver 2000deg coating on hot and cold parts. Also fuel components can be added as well. Call us for pricing.“

Huron Speed Products LS1 Turbo Kit

• Manufacturer: Huron Speed
• Fitment: 97-04 Corvette C5, 98-02 LS1 F-body (Discontinued)
• Turbo configuration: Single & twin turbo
• Value for money:
• Purchase links: Discontinued

Our comment: Huron Speed has the best reputation on the LS turbo-kit scene, and it’s easy to see why.

Not only are their kits incredibly well-built, with a wide variety of choices and upgrades to choose from, but their customer service is undoubtedly superior to their rivals.

Frequently hanging out on the owners’ clubs, and helping absolutely anyone they can with their needs, while confidently explaining anything enthusiasts need to know goes a long way with us.

Their latest kit, the V3, shows that they’ve listened to any feedback and criticisms over the years, and you’ll be able to make your purchase with confidence that any ‘niggles’ are resolved.

Their kits are often on backorder due to their soaring popularity, but they’re undoubtedly worth holding out for if you can.

It’s worth considering that if you see one pop up on the used market, it may be worth finding out which version it is and ensuring that any issues it may have had are already rectified.

It’s certainly not the cheapest option in our list, but sometimes it’s worth spending a little extra cash to ensure you’re getting the best quality available, along with their valuable lifetime warranty.

If you’re looking for a cheap, budget option, then this probably isn’t the ideal choice for you.

Manufacturer description: “We pride ourselves on our Customer Service. We have dedicated our work day to provide our customers with the very best service from getting their products to them timely as well as answering any and all questions promptly. With our model, e-mail works best for communication and we typically respond nearly immediately 7 days a week, morning, noon and night! You will not find or receive better service anywhere else, guaranteed!“

“All Huron Speed Turbo Systems come with a lifetime warranty on all piping against defects, welds, cracking, etc. to the original purchaser. Any questions? No worries we have you covered for life.“

CXRacing LS1 Turbo Kit

• Manufacturer: CXRacing
• Fitment: 98-02 LS1 F-body, 04-06 LS1 Pontiac GTO, 04-06 LS1 Holden Monaro
• Turbo configuration: Single & twin turbo
• Value for money:
• Purchase links:

Buy the CXRacing 98-02 Chevrolet Camaro LS1 Turbo Kit here

Buy the CXRacing 04-06 Pontiac GTO/Holden Monaro LS1 Twin Turbo Kit here

Our comment: Before we start hearing cries of ‘Oh, not that Chinese junk!’ hear us out.

When CXRacing came onto the scene, they were mostly a slightly superior ‘eBay turbo kit’ brand. Over time they’ve listened to the feedback of customers and realized that there’s a gap in the market for decent, cheap turbo kits.

We’ve reviewed multiple turbo kits for various cars from around the world here at Drifted, and the feedback we’re repeatedly getting is that CXRacing isn’t so bad after all, especially not for the price.

Sure, they’re not going to provide you the quality or the customer service that you’re going to get from Huron Speed, but you’ll get a consistent quality kit at an absolute bargain price tag.

You may need to make some slight adjustments, but no more than some of the expensive alternatives on our list.

Their hot side piping is also commonly used in custom/DIY kits since it’s often cheaper and far more convenient than fabricating them yourself or at a local shop.

Two considerations that frequently pop up are that the gaskets aren’t the best out there and that the wastegate flange could do with an upgrade or a custom job.

We honestly would not dismiss CXRacing, particularly for those of you that are on a budget. This could easily work out cheaper than doing the job yourself with a local fabricator, or even a buddy.

We highly recommend considering saving the time and effort by opting for the convenient (piping) route. (Excuse the pun!)

Manufacturer description: “This is CXRacing’s newest product. All parts are developed from ground up in our R&D Center in USA, Designed and built for improved performance gains, with excellent fitment and easy installation.“

Our winner

Our winner is the Huron Speed Products LS1 Turbo Kit.

To pick our winner from this choice of LS1 turbo kits, we looked at a number of criteria; quality, popularity, customer support, and price point.

Based on these criteria, we have chosen the Huron Speed Turbo Kit to be our winner.

Huron Speed Products LS1 Turbo Kit

Huron Speed consistently go above and beyond to provide for their customers, and their constant kit revisions also prove that they’re willing to accept they’re not perfect, but that they’re eager to rectify and improve.

Customer support goes a long way, and Huron Speed has absolutely nailed this aspect in every regard.

Not only that, but they’re also consistently producing the best quality and best fitment kits, with the ultimate optional extras to ensure that you’re able to provide your LS1 with the most exceptional aftermarket upgrades.

Although they have now discontinued their 98-02 LS1 F-body kit, their 97-04 Corvette C5 turbo kits are still available to purchase.

Huron Speed has won this time around, but two other companies also stand out as well worth checking out.

Firstly, STS. Although the kit isn’t perfect for everyone, STS has produced something entirely different for the LS turbo market, which is a fantastic example for those of you who are looking for a convenient and reasonably priced setup and aren’t chasing huge horsepower figures.

On the other hand, CXRacing has once again blown us away (see what we did there?) with their exceptional value-for-money, which makes their kit a real bargain.

If you’re not keen on a specific part of their kit, then just order what you need and use custom parts for the rest.

Thank you for reading our LS1 turbo kit guide

If you enjoyed this article then please share it with the sharing buttons at the side and the bottom of your screen.

Information and photography credits

We thank the following entities for the use of their information and photography in this article:

• Huron Speed
• Forced Inductions
• MotoIQ
• LS1Tech
• Engine Swap Depot
• LSXEverything
• Hawks Motorsports

The post Ultimate LS1 Turbo Kit Guide first appeared on Drifted.com.

• G35 vs G37 – Introduction
• Which is better? G35 or G37?
• G35x vs G37x
• G35s vs G37s
• G35 vs G37 Tuning Potential
• G-Series vs Z-cars (G35/G37 vs 350z/370z)
• G35 vs G37 Conclusion

G35 vs G37 – Introduction

When Nissan created its premium/luxury brand, Infinity, they aimed for the higher-end luxury car market, targeting a more ‘sensible’ consumer than the likes of the typical Z-car owner.

Style and comfort became the forefront of their agenda as they prepared to compete with Toyota’s luxury brand, Lexus.

At the same time, they were also setting sights on their new-found, typically-chosen German rivals in the marketplace.

When the G35 first entered the market, it immediately landed the Motor Trend Car of the Year for 2003, before then being nominated for the North American Car of the Year.

It also landed its spot on the Car and Driver Ten Best list for two years running in 2003 and 2004.

In the present day, the least likely cars are quickly becoming the most tempting for younger enthusiasts to modify for drifting, and the G-series is no exception.

Let’s face it; there’s nothing more exciting than seeing the least likely car being thrown down sideways at the track, and there’s certainly no shortage of Z-cars at any event.

When both the G35 and the G37 were initially released, they came with a more substantial price tag than your typical Nissan and were intentionally far less appealing to the younger generation.

However, with prices continually decreasing over time, and having now reached bargain territory, they’re quickly becoming a more viable opportunity than ever for those that want a fantastic drift chassis with a powerful engine at an irresistible price.

For those of you that have an interest in the 350Z or 370Z, but fancy something a little different – the G-series presents the perfect opportunity.

The Z-car’s popularity within the tuning scene has helped lay the perfect foundations for G35 and G37’s, thanks to the many similarities and interchangeable parts between the two chassis’.

If you like the Z-car performance, but fancy something a little different, or more luxurious, then the G-series could be the perfect answer to your needs.

Don’t be fooled by its luxurious and stylish looks either; the G-series is a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

They may look subtle and sensible, but both the G35 and G37 have proven their abilities as being a fantastic weapon of choice in Formula Drift over the years.

Underneath the stylish, elegant design sits a near-identical base to the Z-car, with the G35 being just 8” longer than the 350Z’s wheelbase, and the G37 being around 12” longer than the 370Z.

Sure, they may weigh a little more because of this, but weight reduction is easy enough to achieve.

With various luxuries such as eight-way power leather heated seats and a Bluetooth stereo, it’s clear that weight wasn’t the top priority in mind when Infiniti was creating the G-series.

Swap those out for some lightweight bucket seats, and you’ll already be well on your way to some decent weight-loss, with the bonus of not ending up on your passengers’ lap when you throw it down sideways!

With both cars based on the same front-midship “FM” platform, Nissan opted to move the engine towards the rear of the engine bay to allow for optimal weight distribution.

Infiniti’s G35 had the fantastic V6, VQ35DE engine under the hood, before later being superseded by the superior VQ35HR in the Sedan models, which was identical to what Nissan had provided the 350Z owners.

Later on for the G37, they’d opt for the highly-regarded VQ37VHR powerplant, the highly-tunable modern-masterpiece, more commonly found in Nissan’s 370Z.

This mighty 3.7-liter V6 is capable of punching out 330 hp and 270 ft-lbs of torque in stock form, and the G-series engines had reached their prime.

There’s no question that both G-series were gifted with an excellent drivetrain, and handled incredibly well as soon as they rolled out of the factory.

It can be tough to choose between the two, and we can understand the challenges that come with deciding which car provides the perfect all-around package for your needs.

Whether you’re looking for a sensible daily driver, a stance car to scrape on the chassis rails, or the perfect car to throw down sideways at the track, the G-series ticks all the right boxes. But which one is the ultimate choice?

Both cars certainly have their perks and differences.

And, most importantly for us here at Drifted, they thankfully also both have fantastic tuning potential, with an impressive range of off-the-shelf upgrades available.

Now that both the G35 and G37 are on used marketplaces at incredible value for money, we know that it’s not an easy decision to pick a clear winner between the two.

For that reason, we’ve decided to put the G37 and G35 head-to-head in this guide, so stick with us to find out which one is the perfect choice for your expectations!

Which is better? G35 or G37?

As you can probably imagine, you’ll find a lot of differing opinions between owners on both sides when it comes to this question.

For that reason, we’re going to break it down by each category to simplify the comparison.

Engine Performance

One thing is for sure – that the main difference between these two cars is their engines. And, although you’d probably think there’s no reasoning for argument there, you’d be surprised.

On paper, the G37 is the clear winner here.

Throughout the various revisions from its 2002-2007 model years, the G35 initially produced just 260hp with the VQ35DE, before later achieving its maximum 306hp with the later VQ35HR engine.

Check out this video by the Dust Runners Automotive Journal Youtube Channel to learn more about the references between the two VQ35 variants.

However, fear not, as further potential was able to be unlocked with various engine upgrades.

From the day the G37 first started rolling out of the showrooms, it was capable of producing 328-horsepower from the fantastic 3.7-liter VQ37VHR, with plenty more tuning potential available.

What’s interesting, though, is that despite the evident differences in power on paper, you’d be surprised if you got behind the wheel of both, as they have very different power delivery methods, which offer a significantly different driving experience.

This is due to the G35 having more aggressive gearing than the G37, which is a lot more evident in the lower power range.

Many owners think suspect Infiniti tweaked this for the revised model since it had initially made the G35 feel too ‘sporty,’ more like the 350Z, rather than appealing to the ‘sensible’ market that Infiniti was targeting with the G37.

For this reason, the G35 can feel quicker, even with less power, since it feels more like a ‘raw’ driver’s car, where the G37 is more refined, with its “swell” power distribution.

The positive of the G37’s VHR is it has an almost VTEC-Esque appeal when the superior power delivery eventually arrives somewhat later in the power range.

The G37 is also more substantial in the weight department, especially with the AWD models, since the transfer case alone weighs around 180lbs.

There’s also the transmission considerations, with the G37’s 7-speed transmission being significantly bulkier than the five or six-speed manual transmission in the G35.

Of course, this additional weight would cause a noticeable difference when planting the power down, especially when the heaviest G37 could potentially weigh around 3-400lbs more than the lightest G35 with its modern-day additions.

So, although the G37 wins this round when it comes to statistics, the G35 could well be the better choice for those of you seeking a ‘raw’ driving feel.

However, if you’re after a more subtle, refined power delivery, then the G37 is likely to be the better option.

Design

As you can probably guess, this is always a heated debate among owners, since it boils down to personal preference.

It’d be a pretty dull world if we all had the same tastes, right?!

Side-by-side, the two cars do look somewhat similar. It could be argued that the G35 coupe has the classic ‘G-series’ look, where the G37 perhaps brings a little too much modern styling to the table.

We prefer the look of the G37 front, but we feel that the G35 rear has a timeless shape about it. But, please don’t send us hate mail!

We’d almost say that it’s a similar scenario to the engines. The G35 has the looks of the more aggressive older sibling, where the G37 perhaps has a more sensible, eloquent look to it.

When it came to weight, the lightest G35 was 3,497lbs, compared to a chunky 3,807lbs on the heaviest automatic-transmission G37’s.

It certainly seems that Infiniti had done more in-depth research when it came to appealing to their target market when it came to the looks, and power delivery, of the G37.

Interior & Entertainment

Okay, so, as you’ve probably guessed, there’s finally a clear winner in this department.

Well, assuming you’re not planning to strip out the interior for your drift missile!

For those of you that have been in a G35, you’ll know that it’s not exactly the most modern of interiors.

Japanese cars were well-known for having interiors that are a little outdated even when new, back in those days.

Let’s just say, if you were to try and use a G35 navigation system these days, you’re likely to give up hope almost immediately and swap it out for an iPhone-compatible head unit.

As soon as you enter the G37, there’s no question that you’ll immediately realize that it’s a far superior, modern, and comfortable place to be than the G35. The two are worlds apart in this regard.

Not only does it look better, but the sound system is dramatically improved, with iPhone compatibility, the leather is far better quality, and it once again just proves that Infiniti went out of their way to target the correct market this time around.

We don’t mean that in a mean way, either. I mean, let’s face it, who doesn’t like a well-refined, modern interior?

Well, unless you’ll be stripping it out and going for lightweight seats, of course.

Reliability

Both the G35 and the G37 are fantastically reliable.

There were a few minor niggles with the G35, which Infinity later ironed out when it came to the G37.

Some G35 owners have reported excessive oil consumption, timing chain tensioners, and various other minor issues.

However, let’s not forget that these cars have been around for a long time now.

There’s no doubt that some of them have probably had pretty harsh lives during that time, too!

If you’re looking for ultimate reliability, then the G37 is going to be the better choice.

The G37 provides newer chassis, a refined and improved engine, and given the general G37 market appeal, it’s less likely to have lived its life frequently bounced off the rev limiter!

With that said, you really can’t go far wrong with either.

There are many cases of both cars running on several hundred thousand miles with nothing more than typical maintenance repairs.

Convenience & Practicality

In all honesty, there are no significant differences in this department, besides the additional luxuries that come with the G37.

The main advantage would be that the G37 comes with a slightly larger boot/trunk, but it still certainly isn’t anything mind-blowing in terms of storage space.

Price

When the G35 was initially released, it had a price tag ranging from $32,250-$34,750.

With the G37, a brand new model would’ve set you back between $33,250-37,000.

Given what you get for the price, especially when compared to the German rivals that they were targeting at the time, the G-series was incredible value for money, even when new.

Thankfully, mostly due to Infiniti targeting a niche market, both models can be had for absolute bargains on the used market.

The G35 has managed to retain its value impressively well, whereas G37 prices seem to be reaching new lows.

Due to the G35 having more of a following on the tuning scene, if you look carefully enough, you can often snap up a G37 for less than a G35!

That’s an incredible amount of car for the money!

G35x vs G37x

As you’ve probably guessed, let’s just say that neither of these is going to be ideal when it comes to drifting!

However, for those of you that aren’t aware, the ‘x’ model uses an ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system, which can be fantastic when it comes to winter fun.

If you’re looking for a sensible everyday driver, both the G35x and G37x can be great choices.

There are minimal differences between the two outside of what we have just covered in our previous chapter.

The main changes are that the G35x has a 5-speed automatic transmission, compared to the revised 7-speed automatic in the G37x.

When putting the transmissions head-to-head, this seems to come down to personal preference. The 7-speed has shorter gearing than the 5-speed, which in turn provides slightly improved MPG.

G35s vs G37s

Both the G35 and the G37 also came with a ‘Sport’ model. Although it wasn’t groundbreaking, there were subtle differences between the cars, which certainly could make them more appealing than the stock alternatives.

With the G35s, Infiniti offered the 5-speed automatic transmission with wheel-mounted paddle shifters or the 6-speed manual.

It also came with uprated suspension, a revised bumper and side sills, sports seats, uprated front brakes, and a viscous limited-slip differential.

Alongside those, it also featured a staggered wheel setup, which ran 245/45/18 rear and 225/50/18 front tires.

For the G37s, they included uprated suspension, a revised bumper, sports seats, a viscous limited-slip differential, uprated brakes, and additional sway-bars, to improve handling.

Unless you can get hold of a cheap ‘s’ model, we’d personally carry out the necessary upgrades ourselves, adding our unique personal touches to the car along the way.

We’d much prefer to run aftermarket G35 coilovers or G37 coilovers than opting for Infiniti’s uprated sports suspension, for example.

G35 vs G37 Tuning Potential

There’s certainly no lack of tuning potential with either of these cars!

Whether you’re looking to simply improve the breathing performance of either car or unlock the true potential that their impressive powerplants have to offer, we’ve covered everything you could need to know in our Tuning Guides.

So, whether you’re looking at going all the way with forced induction, or looking to improve the ride height and stance, make sure you check out the following articles as we dive deep into building the ultimate G-series.

G35 Tuning Options

• All G35 Tuning Guides
• Infiniti G35 Exhaust Guide
• Infiniti G35 Coilover Guide
• Infiniti G35 Supercharger Guide
• Infiniti G35 Turbo Kit Guide
• Ultimate Infiniti G35 Y Pipes Guide
• Infiniti G35 Intake Plenum Spacer Guide
• Infiniti G35 Headers Guide
• Infiniti G35 Cold Air Intake Guide
• Infiniti G35 Test Pipes Guide

G37 Tuning Options

• All G37 Tuning Guides
• Infiniti G37 Turbo Kit Guide
• Infiniti G37 Exhaust Guide
• Infiniti G37 Coilover Guide
• Infiniti G37 Supercharger Guide
• Ultimate Infiniti G37 Intake Guide

G-Series vs Z-cars (G35/G37 vs 350z/370z)

Whether you’re considering a G35 or a G37, it’s hard to ignore the immensely similar Z-cars, the 350z, and 370z.

As you would’ve already noticed in our guide, we speak about the minor differences between them, and it’s hard not to compare them when you’re deciding which future ride is going to be perfect for your needs.

Sure, the 350z/370z is the more popular, and obvious choice, when it comes to drifting.

Nissan created the Fairlady with the drifter in mind. When they designed the 350z, they undoubtedly aimed their market towards those enthusiasts who wanted a light(ish) two-seater, raw driver’s car.

On the other hand, the G35/G37 has been crafted for the everyday gentleman who wanted a sensible, comfortable, reasonably-priced stylish bargain.

With both cars sharing the same engines (mostly), it certainly doesn’t make a choice any more simple.

We would say that the main deciding factor between the two mostly boils down to which car(s) you prefer the look of since the weight issues of the G-series can be worked on and much improved.

There’s also the convenience of rear-seats that the G-series provides, where a rear strut on the Z is the closest you’ll get to having company in the rear.

The G-series also has the added alternative of an AWD variant, which could be particularly useful in areas that see a lot of snow throughout the year.

Driving a 350z/370z in the snow, on the other hand, wouldn’t be quite so convenient!

Whether it’s a G-series or a Z-car, if one pops up at a bargain price and you intend to modify it, then most of their differences become irrelevant.

For example, if you’re looking to strip out your G35’s interior, then it’s going to look (and rattle) like a race car regardless.

Yes, the Z-car is lighter and built with a more race-oriented pedigree in mind, but don’t let that be the ultimate decider when it comes to making your decision.

A stripped-out G35/G37 with a forced induction upgrade and the necessary supporting modifications will provide you with FAR more fun (and ridiculous noises) than a stock Z-car!

G35 vs G37 Conclusion

We feel that we’ve covered most of the questions which seem to be on the mind of potential G-series owners.

Both cars certainly have their quirks, and you definitely can’t go far wrong with either.

It may simply boil down to personal preference when it comes to looks. We’re firm believers that you should be buying a car that makes you turn around (at least once) when you’re walking away from it!

If you’re looking for something modern, comfortable, sleek, with additional luxuries, then the G37 is likely to be the logical choice for you.

However, if you’re a genuine driving enthusiast, and you’re looking for that raw driving feel at a bargain, we’d suggest booking in a G35 test drive.

Although the G37 wins the power wars on paper, Infiniti’s minor alterations from the 370Z’s engine have made the power delivery somewhat disappointing compared to the G35.

However, for those of you that are going down a turbo kit route, this kind of considerations will be entirely irrelevant when it comes to perfecting your tune.

When it comes to budget, the G35 is still generally the cheaper car when it comes to market prices (with some exceptions).

For that reason, we would personally be saving our money to build an epic G35 with the massive array of modifications on the market rather than a near-stock G37.

With that said, there are some stunning G37’s out there, but you’ll need to have slightly deeper pockets when it comes to modifying.

Perhaps with the increased popularity of the G35, and with a large chunk of them slowly but surely being turned into missiles, it could be time for the G37 to shine?

The choice depends entirely on your needs, and it may well be worth getting into the driver’s seat of both to see what appeals to your personal preferences.

While you’re there, we highly recommend also taking a ride in the 350Z and 370Z if rear seats aren’t essential for your needs.

Looking to boost your G37’s performance? Try our G37 headers guide.

Thank you for reading our G37 vs G35 guide.

If you enjoyed this article, then please share it with the sharing buttons at the side and the bottom of your screen.

Information and photography credits

We thank the following entities for the use of their information and photography in this article:

• Stillen
• Carlos Rivera (Flickr)
• Yomar Lopez (Flickr)
• CONCAVO WHEELS (Flickr)
• Jourdan Smith (Flickr)
• Jathan Johnston (Flickr)
• AJH.RAW (Flickr)

The post Ultimate G35 Vs G37 Guide first appeared on Drifted.com.

• Introduction
• What is Handling?
• Best Handling Cars

Introduction

When choosing a car, handling should always be one of your primary considerations, especially for those who would class themselves as petrolheads.

While there’s no question that top speed is exciting, it’s almost useless for most canyon runs or even tracks.

Some of the most fun we’ve had behind the wheel has been in an agile, lightweight sports car, such as a Miata, which could potentially only set you back a couple of thousand dollars – if that.

Using the Miata as an example, neither top speed nor acceleration will ever be the ultimate selling point for these cars, especially if you’re considering one of the earlier 1.6 or 1.8L NA or NB models.

Sure, you could opt for forced induction, which is a whole different ball-game and will likely sacrifice the handling to some extent in the process, thus defeating the objective.

Suppose you venture to the canyons, even in a stock Miata, with the roof down and a reasonably decent set of coilovers.

In that case, you’ll soon realize just how much fun can potentially be achieved, even at low speeds, in a car that handles exceptionally well.

What is Handling?

Handling is always subjective and will depend on who’s testing the car and how hard they’re willing to push it to test its handling capabilities.

Ideally, a car with impressive handling should be capable of getting thrown into a corner at high speed yet feel refined and predictable throughout.

Steering response and feedback are two of the primary considerations. How does the car react to what the driver is expecting from it?

For instance, if you throw a car into a corner at a respectable speed, and you end up understeering before getting t-boned into a tree, the chances are that car doesn’t have good handling!

We would expect a well-handled car to respond well with even the slightest adjustments to steering. If it’s snappy and requires a lot of correction to push hard, then it’s not going to be ideal.

You want a sharp, direct response from the steering and to feel fully in control at all times.

If a car has a delay with steering feedback or doesn’t provide an adequate amount of ‘feel’, then it won’t be what we’re looking for.

Oversteer isn’t necessarily a bad thing, provided it’s predictable and easily-corrected with a well-balanced chassis.

A near-perfect chassis balance is why cars such as the Nissan Silvia S15 are often highly regarded as the best handling drift cars.

Sure, the back end is likely to step out when pushed to the limit or beyond, but you know you can confidently plant your foot and steer your way out of the situation. (Well, that’s the plan, anyway!)

The Essentials of Great Handling

Body roll is also undesirable in a well-handled car, as the last thing you want is to feel like you’re driving a boat through the corners.

Purchasing a set of coilovers, or perhaps even lowering springs, can often rectify body roll issues.

With that said, merely bolting a set of coilovers to your car that currently handles like a boat is never going to provide a complete solution.

The chassis needs to feel planted and inspire confidence in the driver, and the cars listed in this guide all have fantastic potential, whether that’s in stock form or with a few simple upgrades.

Braking should also be a consideration when it comes to handling, as a car with a dead-spot in the brake pedal certainly isn’t going to be desirable when you’re fine-tuning your braking distances.

Finally, it has to be highly enjoyable and entertaining to drive.

As we mentioned earlier, speed isn’t everything, and a good-handling car is often far more enjoyable for daily or weekend use than a car that’s capable of achieving license-losing speeds in a matter of seconds.

Is a vehicle with good handling important?

Not only does a car with good handling provide epic amounts of fun, but it also provides some safety elements too.

Well, providing it doesn’t encourage you to drive beyond your capabilities around every corner, that is!

Let’s say your partner is considering getting a new car, but they’re not a petrolhead. Would a well-handled car be worthwhile in this regard? Certainly.

If he/she got into a situation where they had to swerve to avoid an animal in the road, a car that handles well would be far more predictable when it comes to ensuring that the ultimate car control is maintained.

So our top tip for today is to encourage your other half to get a car with great handling (safety, of course) and then think of various reasons and excuses to take it out for a spin on the weekends!

Thank us later.

Will coilovers provide good handling?

While coilovers can improve your car’s handling, a good chassis is still vital, which is why we recommend considering the vehicles in this list.

Coilovers, when set up correctly (we’re looking at you here, stance kids) on a solid chassis, are likely to provide the best possible handling.

However, slamming it into the ground and losing all suspension travel will have the opposite effect.

Likewise, fitting coilovers to your 6,000lb SUV won’t make it compete with Porsche’s in the twisties, unfortunately.

What cars are we looking at in this guide?

We’re mostly going to be considering affordable, everyday road cars, with a surprising balance thrown into the mix.

You can find the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S and Audi R8’s in every guide online, but since they’re going to be out of budget for most of us, we’ve decided to keep our list a little more realistic.

It’s worth remembering that handling is subjective and a matter of opinion. Unlike top speed and 0-60 times, there’s no ‘official’ way of measuring a car’s handling, which essentially boils down to driver feedback.

Although we hope that our fans won’t disagree with what we’ve got on this list, we’ve undoubtedly missed off a whole bunch of cars, but we’d never get this list published if we provided them all!

We’ve stuck with the rear-wheel-drive platform for this guide. Sorry, Civic Type-R fanboys, you can’t win ‘em all! We have still managed to include a Honda to keep you happy.

10 Best Handling Cars (In Our Opinion!)

For this list, we’re looking at some of the cars we feel are the best handling options on the used car market, which are both affordable and rear-wheel-drive.

Here’s our favorite pick of the bunch, displayed in alphabetical order to frustrate the keyboard warriors.

Just kidding, we’ve refrained from listing our personal opinions on the best, as we feel different cars will suit different needs – you really can’t go wrong with any of the options in this guide.

BMW M3

You may be thinking, “an M3 certainly isn’t affordable for me!” but you may well be surprised by the price tag of BMW’s Ultimate Driving Machine.

We’ve now been blessed with more than four decades of the 3 Series. With the E21 first appearing in 1975, as we fast-forward to the present day, the “M-car” has five variations, with the latest in the series, the G80, arriving in 2021.

Despite the E30 now earning classic status, with a price-tag to match, E36 and E46 M3 coupes and sedans can still be found with reasonable price-tags and are known for being two of the best handlers in the line-up.

As time progresses, both the E9x M3 and the 335i are becoming incredible choices for the price, and both cars are fantastic in the handling department.

If you’ve got a little more cash to spare, both the F80 M3 and F82/F83 M4 can become serious considerations.

Not only is the M3 fantastic in the twisties, but each generation also has heaps of power, and the newer they get, the more spacious and practical they became.

Controversially, Car and Driver labeled the BMW E36 M3 “The best handling car at any price” in 1997.

Since the car went up against the best of what Ferrari and Porsche had to offer, we think you’ll agree that’s a pretty bold statement, but a true testament to this motoring legend.

If you’re looking for a daily driver that’ll be incredible on both straights and twisties while also having enough space for the family in the week, the M3 is a perfect choice.

Ford Mustang

Okay, so not everyone’s gonna agree here. But, we’re not looking at the Mustang with the same mindset as the previous M3.

Although Eleanor was undoubtedly a thing of beauty, she’d had one too many cupcakes and certainly wouldn’t have made our best-handling cars list.

Ford undoubtedly built the Mustang to compete with other muscle cars of its era, and handling wasn’t really at the forefront of their intentions in the earlier years.

However, as time progressed, American muscle cars have thankfully gone from handling like cruise ships to providing some of the best contenders out there a run for their money.

For example, the Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 not only provides 460 hp from its 5.0L V8, but it has a MacPherson double-ball suspension combined with many suspension goodies.

These goodies include Hydraulic MagneRide damping with gas pressurization, which provides a revolutionary suspension approach.

Combined with Brembo six-piston brakes, this impressive muscle car is more than capable when it comes to the twisties, and you can guarantee the 460hp powerplant will provide more than enough grunt in the straights, too.

Honda S2000

Those of you that are frequent visitors to Drifted won’t be surprised to see the Honda S2000 on our list.

For those of you who hate convertibles, you’ll have a serious fight on your hands to resist the urge of the S2K.

Not only was the F1-inspired engine the highest specific-output engine in the world, thanks to its insane 9,000rpm redline, but the combination of an old-school stick-shifter and a limited-slip differential in the rear made it a Miata on steroids.

The S2000 weighs in at 2,800lb with 50/50 weight distribution combined with the VTEC-powered naturally-aspirated four-cylinder and manual transmission, making it one of our favorite cars – not just when it comes to handling, either.

Honda and two-seater sporter fans have been screaming out for an update on the S2K, but they’ve not provided any hope that a successor is on the way.

Yay, go Honda! Because Front-Wheel Drive cars are so much more exciting, of course.

Since Honda produced the S2000 for just ten years, they’ve retained their value unsurprisingly well.

Do we feel they justify the price tag? Definitely.

Although you could match the 240hp with a Miata alongside a turbo or supercharger kit, it still wouldn’t be as well-refined or reliable as the S2K.

Talking of turbo kits, did we mention that the S2000 is capable of achieving up to 700 horsepower?

Mazda MX-5 Miata

You guessed it. How could we possibly forget the Mazda Miata?

The humble two-seater roadster will undoubtedly be one of the first considerations that will come to mind when considering a car with exceptional handling characteristics.

Although the NA and NB models are likely to be the first choice for many, thanks to their incredible value-for-money, the later generations are still fantastic in the handling department.

Earlier models will suffer badly from rust issues, which means that numbers are now falling rapidly, but if you’re lucky enough to live in a dry part of the world, this isn’t likely to be much of an issue.

The Miata is one of the most commonly-raced cars globally, and that’s certainly not due to hosting a monstrous powerplant under the hood. Quite the opposite.

Thankfully, they’re the perfect option for tuning, and with an exceptional base chassis for your build, the Miata is a tuner’s dream.

Make sure you check out our Miata tuning guides to see what the two-seater, roof-down pocket rockets are capable of achieving.

Mazda RX-8

Ahh, joys. The ever-controversial Mazda RX-8.

RX7 fans screamed out for a successor to the legendary RX-7, and for some reason, Mazda listened.

Before we knew it, the RX-8 was born, and it was probably the best and worst thing that Mazda ever did. Although they did a few of those, to be fair.

The RX8 took third place in the Car and Driver 2011 Best-Handling Car in America guide, against the likes of the Porsche Boxster and Lotus Elise, ranking it above the likes of the BMW M3 and Nissan GT-R.

We’re not entirely sure if we could ever own an RX-8, given the rotary issues, which we highly recommend considering if you’re thinking about purchasing one.

With that said, bolt on a set of coilovers, and the RX-8 will most definitely be the best handling car you’ll get for the money.

Just be prepared for repair bills along the way, that’s all.

A real bargain that even has off-the-shelf turbo kits available for those who love carrying out ridiculous amounts of engine maintenance.

Nissan 370Z

Another drifted favorite is Nissan’s Z-car, and although its older brother, the 350Z, is another epic contender, it’s the 370Z that would be our personal choice.

If money isn’t an issue, it’ll come as no surprise that the NISMO variant is the most desirable, and the exceptionally balanced handling makes it well worthy of a spot on our list.

The 350Z has been one of the most popular drift cars of all time, and the 370Z provides that little bit more in a highly-refined, modernized package.

It’s not the lightest car in our guide, but with a potential 350 horsepower on offer from the 3.7-liter V6 powerplant, it’s certainly no slouch.

With the Fairlady seen as one of the last ‘true’ sports cars, both the 350 and the 370Z will be fantastic in the twisties.

If you’re considering either car, make sure you head over to our Nissan 350Z and 370Z tuning guides to see the real potential these incredible creations have to offer.

Whether you’re looking to achieve maximum grip in the twisties or throw it down sideways at the track, the Z-car will provide the perfect solution.

Nissan Silvia

Although the S15 might not be legal in the US just yet, there’s not long to wait!

Nissan’s Silvia family is typically regarded as the holy grail of drift cars in the handling department.

Whether it’s the S13 or S14 (240SX) or the most recent, S15, none of them have disappointed.

There’s a valid reason that drifting legend Naoki Nakamura has stuck with the S-chassis platform all these years, and handling undoubtedly plays a huge role.

You’ll need to expect to pay some rather hefty JDM scene tax if you want to get your hands on an S-chassis, but we can assure you it’s worth it.

With perfect weight balance and a high-revving turbocharged SR20 (the KA has gotta go, sorry), the S-chassis makes the perfect-handling car with just a few bolt-on mods.

Porsche Boxster Spyder

We advise you to think of this as a wildcard in our guide. We like to provide some variety, and since most cars are well out of the typical price range.

Although they’re certainly not cheap, the lightweight Boxster Spyder is available for under $50k on the used market, and they often beat supercars with double or triple the price tag in the handling department.

Since Car and Driver awarded it the “2011 Best-Handling Car in America”, it’ll be well worth the price tag for those with deeper pockets.

Toyota GT86/Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S

Jeez, they don’t make it simple with these names, do they?

The Toyobaru BR86 is one of the finest handling cars that’s still available in the present day.

Although some enthusiasts will quite rightly point out the lack of power, there’s very little that beats this chassis in terms of low-powered fun, regardless of the price tag.

For that reason, it’s often compared to the Miata, and we put the two head-to-head in this guide.

If you like the idea of a Miata but need a car that’s practical for everyday use, look no further than the GT86/BRZ/FR-S.

There are very few lightweight rear-wheel-drive options in the modern market, but this successor to the legendary AE86 delivered in style.

If you’re worried that the power won’t be adequate, then make sure you check out our GT86/BRZ/FR-S tuning guides, where we’ll show you how to unlock their true power potential.

We certainly wouldn’t rule out this platform without getting behind the wheel and experiencing it for yourself, as we can guarantee that it’s ridiculous amounts of fun, even in stock form.

With prices touching the $10,000-mark for some of the higher-mileage examples, it’s the perfect opportunity to consider seeing what they have to offer.

Toyota GR Supra

Toyota may have upset some of its loyal fanbase with the release of the GR Supra, but thankfully, they managed to keep the GT86’s bigger *cough* German brother rear-wheel-drive.

If you’re lucky enough to make the GR Toyota Supra a consideration, then the 2.0-liter variant is the far superior option in the handling department, thanks to the weight-saving.

Toyota UK provides an in-depth explanation regarding how they went about achieving the cars’ excellent handling capabilities.

Although most enthusiasts will be quick to tell you that it’s a re-styled Z4, that isn’t the case.

In their review, Autocar stated, “it certainly comes across as a more dynamically exciting machine than the Z4. Its steering feels far quicker off centre than the BMW’s, its front end much more adhesive and darting. There’s a greater sense of composure about it, too, particularly at the rear axle”.

“The BMW’s tail can skit about under cornering or over off-camber surfaces, whereas the Supra feels more planted and secure with its adaptive dampers set to Sport”.

So, there we have it! We hope that we’ve covered everything you could want to know about what we feel are some of the best handling cars in this guide.

Thank you for reading our Best Handling Cars guide.

If you enjoyed this article, please share it with the buttons at the bottom of your screen. If you’ve found this information useful, then please take a moment to share it with other automotive enthusiasts. We appreciate your support.

Photography credits

We thank the following entities for the use of their photography in this article:

• Fitment Industries

The post 10 Best Handling Cars For 2021 first appeared on Drifted.com.

Here, you can click on a particular section within this article, otherwise, scroll down as we look at every aspect of the Infiniti G35.

• Infiniti G35 History
• Infiniti G35 Pros & Cons
• Building the Ultimate G35
• Infiniti G35’s In Drifting
• G35 vs 350z – What’s best for your needs?
• Conclusion

Introduction

There’s no secret that we’re huge fans of both the G35 and its sportier sibling, the Nissan 350z here at Drifted, so we’ve put together an article for both as we look over the history of these awesome cars and to help you create the perfect G.

Despite the G35 sometimes getting overlooked, it certainly has its appeal in the market, especially for those of you where 4-seats are a necessity, or if you’re simply considering buying, or building something a little different.

We’ve witnessed a rise in the G35’s popularity over the years, particularly within the VIP and stance tuning scenes, but we’re going to take a look at prepping your G for drifting, or even just for a fun weekend car for the canyon runs to unleash its full potential.

There’s no question that the G-series is heavier than the 350z, mostly down to them being aimed at the luxury market from the factory unlike the 350’s sports-car base, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be modified to upset the local Z33’s.

We compare the G35 Vs the 350z, blow-by-blow in our head to head article.

There’s a huge appeal for luxury cars within drifting, and Japan has embraced them over the years. We’ve witnessed some insane Toyota Chasers as an example. One that springs to mind is Daigo Saito’s weapon of choice, which certainly isn’t small!

We’re sure you know already, but Infiniti is Nissan’s luxury car division in the US. Despite sharing a huge array of parts with the 350z, it was marketed towards to upper end of the market, partly to compete with their rival, Toyota, for their luxury-branded Lexus IS300.

A Classier Alternative

Not only that, but the G35 also handed them the opportunity to go head-to-head with German luxury cars, such as BMW and Audi, whilst being positioned in a far more reasonable price bracket for mass appeal.

With a classier interior than the 350z, fold-down rear seats, and an all-around luxurious feel, it may often find itself compared to its sportier sibling, but in many ways, it’s got a completely different mindset.

The G35 is 8″ longer in the frame, but everything from the suspension to the powertrain is interchangeable. This may add weight, but when you’ve got 8-way power leather heated seats as standard from the factory, it’s clear that weight wasn’t a top priority on their list of concerns.

The longer wheelbase of the G35 is both a strength and a weakness when it comes to drifting. It allows for an extremely stable drift and steady control, but it also slows down rotation and prevents snappy transitions which you often get from shorter-wheelbase cars.

But, Can It Drift?

Sure, it’s big and fairly heavy, but the 3.5L VQ35DE V6 powerplant has more than enough power for grassroots level drifting, we do of course recommend that you look at the manual transmission variants, and one from the later production years with lower miles is likely to be your best bet.

What’s to stop you stripping out the car interior, putting some light bucket seats, fitting some coilovers as well as removing some of the luxury extras, and throwing it down sideways at the track anyway?

When stripped, you can shed around 150lbs of weight. This will leave the Infiniti G heavier than the 350z by around 150lbs, mostly due to the 8″ longer wheelbase.

When looking to buy a G35, if one does happen to pop up with high miles, but it’s a bargain, then definitely give it a shot if it looks like a clean car. A higher-mileage well-maintained example is often a better buy than a low-mileage bounced off the limiter equivalent.

If you’re hoping to go with the higher-regarded VQ35HR engine, you’ll need to look for a 2007 or newer model sedan, as Nissan never offered the HR in the coupe. This was only offered to later 350z and sedan variants.

With huge modification potential for the chassis and the VQ 35 engines, these cars really do have heaps of potential, and we’re going to help you get the most out of your G-series with this guide.

Infiniti G35 History

With the first two generations of Nissan’s G-series being based on the front wheel drive P10 and P11 Primera, the third generation G35 was certainly a huge change and bared very little resemblance to its previous siblings.

Rather confusingly, the Infiniti G35 and its successors are re-badged versions of the Nissan Skyline to be sold on the North American and European markets and had far more similarities to that than the Primera.

Based on Nissan’s FM platform, which stands for “Front Midship” design, Nissan opted to move the engine towards the rear of the engine bay, which substantially improved the weight distribution. As well as the G35, the FM platform was also used for the Nissan 350z and the Infiniti FX crossover SUV.

When the G35 hit the market, it was an instant hit with the press, and it immediately scooped up Motor Trend’s Car of the Year in 2003 before going on to be nominated for the North American Car of the Year award. It also found itself on the Car and Driver Ten Best list in both 2003 and 2004.

2003 Infiniti G35

Featuring the same highly regarded powerplant as the 350z, the VQ35DE, the G35 offered superior comfort and class to appeal to the higher-class end of the market, despite its reasonable price range.

With a 52% front and 48% rear weight distribution, it came in coupe or sedan models with automatic and manual transmission choices.

2004 Infiniti G35

For the 2004 model year, the 6-speed manual transmission was introduced for the sedan model, after previously using a 5-speed box. This highly regarded 6-speed box had been available in the coupe since the beginning of production.

Improvements were made to the engine for both the sedan and the coupe, and manual transmission sedans gained a limited-slip differential. Meanwhile, manual transmission coupes had upgraded brakes and 18-inch wheels, compared to the 17’s for sedans.

All of the models also gained a standard tire-pressure monitor.

2005 Infiniti G35

Various cosmetic changes were made for the 2005 model year, which would see the interiors of both the coupe and sedans receive a ‘sportier’ look alongside backlighting.

Playback for both MP3 and WMA audio was added to the CD player, and the cassette players still found in some models were removed for obvious reasons!

Improved brakes were also fitted which had larger discs and uprated calipers after reports of excessive wear-and-tear from the previous brakes.

A sport-tuned suspension package became standard on all 6-speed manual models, and they also introduced the VQ35DE’s “Rev-UP” engine for the first time, resulting in 298hp being offered.

For the automatic-transmission sedans, it was still limited to 280hp.

Rear active steering also became an option for the first time, although this was a love/hate addition.

2006 Infiniti G35

For 2006, there were further changes made to the design. This would include new headlights and taillights and a new front bumper. Bluetooth was also introduced for the first time, enabling hands-free calling.

A keyless entry/engine-start system was also added.

2007 Infiniti G35

This would see a rather large re-design for the sedan model, which now featured the arguably superior VQ35HR engine, handing it even more power than the coupe.

Meanwhile, sales of the coupe version continued in its 2003-2006 form.

2008 Infiniti G35

By the time the 2008 version had been released, the coupe also received a redesign, this also featured a more powerful engine which was capable of 306hp alongside other improvements, but it was clear that Infiniti were now preparing for the release of the G37. You can learn more about the G37 in our G35 Vs G37 guide.

Infiniti G35x

In 2004, a new model was introduced. Despite typically using the rear-wheel-drive layout, the G35x Sedan was handed an AWD system with automatic transmission.

The G35x featured a ‘snow mode’ which allowed the driver to lock in a 50/50 front-rear torque split.

This, of course, wouldn’t be the ideal variant of choice if you’re looking to drift your G-series!

Infiniti G35 Pros & Cons

Pros

• Great weight distribution, luxurious yet a great drivers car, especially with some minor modifications
• Fantastically priced, particularly in the present market
• Reliable – the Rev-up is sometimes known for burning oil, but other than that they are well-known for their strength and tuning potential
• Great looks, a modern and unique design
• A huge selection of off-the-shelf bolt-on modifications which are mostly interchangeable with the 350z – we’re going to take a further look into some of the best products on offer in the next section
• Parts availability – this is often a huge problem with owners of rarer cars, especially cars like the S-chassis which has been around in the drift scene for a LONG time. With parts getting older, they’re also getting rarer, much like the cars
• Forced induction capabilities – with such strong internals, these engines are capable of achieving far bigger power figures than Infiniti provided
• Rear storage capacity – actual usable rear storage, unlike the 350z
• The option to have 2 or 4 door variations, we all know what they say about more doors

Cons

• Rev-up oil consumption – these engines have been known to burn a little excess oil, it seems to be worse with the rev-up’s than other models, so it’s well worth researching if you are planning to buy one and think this may be an issue for you
• Weight – they’re not the lightest chassis out there, but it’s the perfect opportunity to carry out some weight saving. With the G35 being aimed at the luxury market, creating a lightweight wasn’t part of Infiniti’s plan
• The later coupe models were never handed the superior HR engines of the sedan and 350z
• The interior feels almost like a well-polished and slightly posher Nissan, but still has its creaks and groans, however, this won’t matter if you intend to remove it

Building the Ultimate G35

Whether you’re looking to go down the VIP stance route or build a stripped-out track weapon, we’ve put together some of the highlights of our G35 Tuning Guides to help you create the perfect G!

Vortech Supercharger Kit

• Manufacturer: Vortech
• Fitment: Infiniti G35, Nissan 350z Z33
• Supercharger type: Centrifugal
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Buy the Vortech Supercharger Kit at Enjuku Racing

Our comment: Vortech have put their years of valuable knowledge in the supercharging scene to create the ultimate kit for G35 owners.

Combining great value for money with fantastic build quality, reliability and customer service. Not only that, but it’s also one of the easiest kits to install (around 8-12 hours).

With owners making an impressive 410hp from the kit and 440hp from the ‘Rev-Up’ variation, it’s easy to see why so many have made this their choice. This kit also includes upgrade options to gain additional power.

Manufacturer description: “The G35 system uses Vortech’s V-3 SCi supercharger. Continued development in Vortech’s Lab resulted in the V-3 SCi. The “i” stands for improved and with its new patented oil control system and state of the art centrifugal compressor stage this V-3 literally blows away the competition. Industry leading 75% adiabatic efficiency [SAE J1723 standard] means less heat is being generated, reduced drive power and more net power is produced. Less heat also means better durability, easier on the engine than any turbo installation.“

“Vortech supercharger systems are great value. Dollar for dollar, Vortech systems deliver more horsepower than virtually any other method of upgrade. Also, driven normally, gas mileage usually increases.“

“Vortech’s G35 Supercharger Systems are available as either a complete, fully calibrated bolt-on system, or as a Tuner Kit for custom installations at over 500 HP. And with Vortech’s many upgrade solutions, there is always more power when you are ready.“

Jim Wolf Technologies Twin Turbo kit

• Manufacturer: Jim Wolf Technologies
• Fitment: Infiniti G35, Nissan 350z Z33
• Turbo configuration: Twin turbo
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Buy JWT Twin Turbo kit at Enjuku Racing

Our comment: The JWT kit is a great starter turbo kit that comes in at a mid-level price point. Offering 125 WHP out of the box and impressive reliability claims, this could be the perfect solution to safely increase your power. Further upgrade options are available to really make things interesting. Nice kit!

Manufacturer description: “JWT originally designed this kit as a feasibility study in conjunction with Garrett and Infiniti’s product planner at the time. The kit is designed around the O.E. criteria for reliability, no boost lag, and safe but significant power levels.”

“The JWT Twin Turbo Kit has accomplished this and more over thousands of miles of reliable track and street use since it’s release. All critical airflow junctions use application specific castings to maximize flow and eliminate boost lag. Turbo outlets have isolated waste paths to improve turbine efficiency.”

“JWT has combined high efficiency Garrett GT Ball Bearing Turbos, Garrett charge cooler cores (700+hp rated) with over 300 individual parts, to create the most complete and reliable bolt on forced induction system available for Nissan and Infiniti VQ35 vehicles.”

“No other boosting solution combines the reliability, performance, and throttle responsiveness of this system.”

“This system is complete requiring no other modifications to deliver an additional 125WHP and much more with additional JWT upgrade stages.“

APEXi N1 ExV Damper Coilover Kit

• Manufacturer: APEXi
• Levels of damping adjustment: 32
• Construction type: Monotube
• Spring rate front: 10kg/mm
• Spring rate rear: 8kg/mm
• Fitment: Infiniti G35, Nissan 350z Z33
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Buy your APEXi ExV’s at FRSport

Our comment: These coilovers are a great out of the box option for a no thrills sports setup. These would be suitable for anybody looking to improve the looks and handling of their G35 for a reasonable budget. They are the cheapest coilovers in our guide and offer good value for money.

Manufacturer description: “APEXi N1 ExV is the newest line of coilover kits from Apexi featuring dual height and 32 way dampening adjustments. ExV, which stands for “Expert Type V” was designed to the be ultimate street suspension with no compromise for ride quality and price.”

“Features include:
– 44mm Monotube Damper w/ 32 way adjustments
– Full dual height adjustable body for fine adjustments
– Spanner wrench and accessories included
– High quality design and manufacturing”

“A must have for anyone doing track days and spirited driving. Will improve car handling and response effectively.”

HKS Hi-Power G35 exhaust

• • Internal pipe diameter: 60mm (2.35″)
  • Tailpipe configuration: 120mm Dual titanium tips
  • Primary exhaust system material: Stainless steel
  • Fitment: Infiniti G35
  • Manufacturer: HKS
  • Value for money:rating
  • Our comment: The HKS system is one of the more pricey exhaust systems however it’s undoubtedly one of the best and most popular all-round options on the market. If you know Japanese tuning legends HKS then you know the fitment, sound and performance will be incredibly high quality combined with an epic sound.

It’s worth remembering that if you choose a 350z exhaust system, you’ll need an 8″ extension to account for the longer wheelbase. Thankfully, this HKS option is built specifically for the G so it’ll conveniently bolt-on to the car for you to enjoy right away.

• Manufacturer description: “Inspired and designed from endurance and GT racing in Japan, HKS developed its Hi-Power Exhaust system for both turbocharged and naturally aspirated applications. HKS has incorporated this new race inspired offset muffler and piping design into many street applications, which offers a greater flow and higher-PRM power gains due to the less restrictive design. This is achieved by eliminating unnecessary bends for the straightest exhaust path.”
• Purchase link: HKS Hi-Power G35 exhaust

Takeda Air Intake

• Manufacturer: Takeda
• Fitment: Infiniti G35, Nissan 350z Z33
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Buy the Takeda Air Intake at Enjuku Racing

Our comment: Takeda are claiming that this high quality cold air intake is going to bolt on an extra 19bhp and 16flt/lbs of torque to your G35. That is a serious boost for under $300.

This is a well designed but simple kit that includes an aluminium short ram pipe with a Takeda Pro Dry S oil-less filter.

For the cost and the performance increase, this intake is rewarded with five stars. What a bargain.

Manufacturer description: “Takeda Retain is the Takeda Short Ram lineup. These intakes create simple, bolt-on horsepower that requires simple, quick installation and no bumper removal. Some of the short ram intakes include a wrinkle black heat shield.“

“Takeda Air Intake Systems use a revolutionary new Pro Dry S Filter Media that works without filter oil. This media is easier and faster to clean than traditional foam, and requires no costly and messy solvents or oils. “

“Takeda filters can be cleaned in a matter of minutes and are ready to use after only a couple of hours of drying time. Unlike pre-oiled or disposable filters, Takeda Filters are Lifetime Filters that will last as long as you own your vehicle. “

JWT High Clamping Force HD Clutch Kit

• Manufacturer: Jim Wolf Technologies (JWT)
• Fitment: Infiniti G35, Nissan 350z Z33
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Buy the JWT clutch kit here

Our comment: JWT offers G35 owners the clutch which is undoubtedly the most popular choice in our list with their clamping force HD kit. This, combined with their lightweight flywheel is the perfect choice for those who want the stock, OEM pedal feel but with a clutch that can handle a little more of a kicking.

Often regarded as the perfect option, this is ideal for daily driving and light track/drift use. If you’re intending to go down the higher-powered forced induction route, you may want to look for something a little more hardcore.

When coupled with the lightweight flywheel, the only complaints we’ve ever heard is about the amount of chatter noise, but it’s a small price to pay for such a fantastic option otherwise.

Manufacturer description: “1200KG clamping force and a smooth organic disc makes this the best choice for street / track 350Z-G35 including boosted cars!“

Infiniti G35’s In Drifting

As you’ve probably guessed, the 350z was the more commonly used choice when it came to drifting, but we love being different and G35’s look awesome sideways! If you decide to build a cool G – PLEASE share them with us, we’d love to see it!

Team Falken clearly had a secret love for G35s, with Calvin Wan running one in the United States alongside Paul ‘Polo’ Cheshire running one in the UK/Europe.

Calvin Wan’s Infiniti G35 powered him to a 1st place overall in the Formula Drift Team Drift Competition, 1st place in the Formula Drift Team Drift Event round 2 and a 2nd place in the Formula Drift Team Drift Event Round 1. He ran the G35 from 2004 to 2007, until it was replaced with his Team Falken Nissan Silvia S15 drift car.

Paul Cheshire campaigned his highly customised 2JZGTE powered Infiniti across much of Europe, including competiting at the historic Nurburgring Circuit in Germany AKA “The Green Hell”.

Here’s Paul ‘Polo’ Cheshire smoking out the world-famous Nurburgring in Germany:

Meanwhile, Drift Emporium also ran two G35’s in their Formula Drift team:

More recently, Hoonigan has chosen to display just how much of a bargain the G35 can be, as they put T-Pain in the driving seat of their $1,500 beater sedan to slay some tires! This looks like HEAPS of fun.

G35 vs 350z – What’s best for your needs?

You’ve most probably noticed that we’ve mentioned the 350z a lot in this article, but since these cars are both based on the same platform, with the same powerplant, it’s hard not to compare the two side-by-side.

Both cars have their positives and negatives, and we’ve often been asked what the differences are, and which one you should buy. We’ve created this section to give the answers you’ve been looking for.

First up, let’s just clarify that neither of these cars are going to be crazy fast in a straight line unless you decide to go down the forced induction route.

Nissan’s 350Z was originally intended to be a modern-day version of the much-loved 240z, but after a disappointing concept with a KA24DE under the hood was shelved, Nissan then went on to create the 350z.

The G35 was a brand-new concept, built to go up against the more luxurious rivals that Nissan had at the time, and also to put Japan on the map when it came to luxury cars.

Where the G35 was provided with sedan and coupe variants which featured a sunroof, the 350z was never released with one, instead, they produced the drop-top roadster version for those of you that like a little wind in your hair.

What Are The Key Differences On The Surface?

When you look at both cars next to each other from the outside, they’re both incredibly good looking, and it often falls down to personal taste as to which suits your personal preference in the looks department.

The G35 is undoubtedly larger and somewhat heavier, but it has the added benefit of rear seats in the back, which is undoubtedly a positive if you’re often carrying more than one passenger or have kids.

Even if you don’t, rear space is always convenient to have, and this is severely restricted on the 350z. Not only is the trunk restricted for space, but the Z’s huge strut bar through the middle also makes this even less practical.

Both cars do have a sporty look, and if you prefer the ride height of the 350z, then just remember that can be easily rectified with some coilovers on your G, which will undoubtedly make the car handle like a whole different beast.

When it comes to the powerplant, the G35 coupe does fall victim slightly on this one in the later years, since the newer 350z’s were handed the VQ35HR, where the G-coupe only ever received the VQ35DE.

However, don’t let that put you off the G completely if you’re desperate for the newer engine, as the later sedan models also included the HR.

Both cars were given the same manual and automatic gearboxes, but only the G35 was ever available in an AWD model (with the G35x.)

What About The Interior?

Moving on to the interior, the G35 has gone for the stylish, luxury feel, which improved throughout the model years. Meanwhile, the 350z was undoubtedly aimed more at the racer-style market.

In the 350z are hugging seats, along with minimal luxury features and the typical dash gauges you would expect.

Meanwhile, the G35 is the far more gentlemanly choice, with many luxurious features and comforts in mind. It’ll undoubtedly be the more pleasant place to be for the morning commute, but not quite so refined in stock form want to head to the track.

The most obvious difference on the interior is the fact that there are two seats behind you, which you won’t get with the 350.

At the end of the day, it all boils down to what you’re looking for. If either car pops up at a bargain price and you’re looking to modify it, then most of the differences are irrelevant. For example, if you’re looking to strip out your G35 interior, then it’s going to look like a race car regardless!

Yes, the 350z is lighter and was built with racing in mind, but don’t let that be the ultimate decider when making your decision. A stripped G35 with forced induction and the obvious modifications will provide you with far more fun than a stock 350z!

Conclusion

There’s no doubt that the G35 ticks a lot of boxes and is an excellent all-rounder which can provide you with a luxurious daily driver alongside some weekend fun at the local track, especially with some simple bolt-on modifications.

Since there are plenty of G35’s on the current marketplace with bargain price tags, it’s easy to see why you could be tempted, and although it’s a shame that the HR was never available in the coupe variants, the sedan’s are certainly something a little different.

If you’re considering purchasing a G35, or whether you’re lucky enough to have already got your hands on one, we highly recommend that you check out our extensive G35 Tuning Guides to help you get the most out of your G.

If you’re stuck between the choice of a G35 or a 350z, we highly recommend getting yourself into the driving seat of both and seeing which one is best suited for your needs. Where the G35 is the practical choice, the 350z may well feel ‘right’ to you. Either way, we know you’ll be happy with your decision!

Are you an Infiniti fan but looking for something a little special? An Infiniti that stands out from the norm? Then you should check out our Infiniti Q50 vs Q70 feature.

Want to learn about Nissan’s latest challenger in the sports car segment, which is also the G35’s spiritual successor? If so, here’s everything you need to know about the 400Z.

Additional G35 Related Content

We’ve chosen some of our favorite G35 YouTube picks here:

One Take go for a ride in this insane 550hp twin-turbo G35 coupe!

2JZ goodness with G35 beauty? The perfect combination! This G35 really is the ultimate package.

From one engine swap to the next, check out this G35 with a distinctly ‘Merican heart.

Curious what a twin-turbo VQ35 sounds like? You’re certainly not going to be disappointed! Check out these crazy sounds.

Photography credits

Drifted would like to extend thanks to the following sources for use of their images:

• Jesse B (Flickr)
• Kevin Saengsourinho (Flickr)
• Denis Podmarkov (Flickr)
• CP Fraudtography (Flickr)

The post Ultimate Infiniti G35 Guide – Everything You Need To Know first appeared on Drifted.com.

• Introduction
• LS2 Specs & History
• LS3 Specs & History
• LS2 and LS3 Differences
• Upgrades & Tuning Potential
• Should You Consider An LS Swap?
• Which Cars Have LS2 & LS3 engines?
• Conclusion

Introduction

We don’t think there’s much argument that the 90s were some of the most exciting times for the automotive industry, and as JDM manufacturers were producing the likes of the 2JZ-GTE and RB26DETT, America also had a trick up their sleeve.

As Corvette introduced the brand new C5 in 1997, this stunning new ride not only looked a treat, but it was hiding something special under the hood – the mighty LS1.

With the birth of GM’s third-generation LS engine, it would quickly become a gamechanger in the automotive world and a worthy opponent of its Japanese rivals.

The revolutionary, aluminum 5.7-liter small-block engine produced 345 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque in a compact, lightweight package.

However, despite respectable power figures in stock form, the motor’s true power potential was quickly realized by tuning houses across the US, which triggered real excitement.

Right away, the LS hype started causing a commotion in the drifting, track, and drag racing communities.

As the LS1 continued to be the tuners’ powerplant of choice, it was time for General Motors to prove that the best of the LS engine family was yet to come.

It would appear that the LS2 and LS6 had been secretly mating in GM’s factories, and in 2005, the LS2 was born.

LS2 Specs & History

With its upgraded 6-liter displacement, the Gen IV LS2 engine combined the best of what the LS1 and the LS6 had to offer, providing an impressive final output of 400 hp alongside 400 lb/ft torque, with a redline of 6,500 rpm.

Suddenly, the LS1 was left overshadowed by the new kid on the block.

With the LS6 having proven itself in the market after its initial introduction in 2001, GM was able to integrate the best of both worlds into the LS3 – producing their most impressive LS engine yet.

Utilizing the improved block casting from the LS6, larger bores, and a superior camshaft also helped provide the increased 400 lb/ft of torque throughout the rev range.

Not only was the LS2’s power output superior throughout the rev range, but the fuel economy improved, too.

The LS1 featured a compression ratio of 10.25:1 and the LS6 10.5:1. GM would increase this once again for the LS2 – which had the highest to date with 10.9:1.

If you’re interested to know more about how the LS1 compares to the LS2, we recommend checking out our LS1 vs LS2 guide.

LS2 Specs:

• Displacement: 6.0L (5.967 L)/364.1 cu/in
• Horsepower: 400 hp at 6,000 rpm
• Torque: 400 lb/ft at 4,400 rpm
• Compression Ratio: 10.9:1
• Cylinder Bore: 4.00 inches (101.6 mm)
• Stroke: 3.62″ (92mm)

LS3 History

Building upon the previous variants’ successes, the ever-improved LS3 hit the market as Corvette’s new base engine just three years after the LS2 initially hit the market.

Once again, the most significant upgrade would be the power increase, which now pushed out an insane 430 hp and 424 lb/ft torque in stock form.

Alongside the impressive power upgrade was an increased displacement which now provided a 6.2-liter (376 cu in) capacity, thanks to a larger bore of 103.25 mm.

With higher-flowing heads, an improved camshaft with a 14mm lift, and a 10.7:1 compression ratio, it also featured additional upgrades such as a high-flow intake manifold and an improved valvetrain.

Injectors featured in the earlier LS7 engine were also integrated into the LS3, capable of providing 47 lb (27kg)/hr of fuel to the engine.

Not only was the LS3 popular in America, but Australian manufacturer HSV also decided to equip their entire catalog with the LS3, further revising the engine to produce 436 hp in stock form for the Maloo and Clubsport models.

Holden would also opt for the LS3 for both the VF II Commodore and WN II Caprice-V from 2015 for the Australian market.

LS3 Specs:

• Displacement: 6.2L/376 cu/in
• Horsepower: 430-436 hp at 5,900 rpm
• Torque: 424-428 lb/ft at 4,600 rpm
• Compression Ratio: 10.7:1
• Cylinder Bore: 4.065″ (103.25 mm)
• Stroke: 3.622″ (92mm)

LS2 and LS3 Differences

There’s no doubt that both the LS2 and LS3 are fantastic engines, but each generation of the LS engine series has improvements over its predecessor.

But, are the differences worth paying the extra money for? That’s for you to decide!

This section will undoubtedly help make your mind up as we look at the differences between the two variants.

Displacement

The first thing that you’ll notice that’s different between the two engines is the displacement.

While the LS2 was provided with a 6-liter capacity, the LS3 receives an increased displacement of 6.2-liters.

Despite the two engines having an identical stroke of 92.0mm, GM achieved an additional 12 inches of displacement by providing the LS3 with a larger bore. While the LS2 has a bore of 101.6mm, the LS3 has 103.25mm.

Not only does this help with providing the additional 30 horsepower gained with the LS3 (or 36hp with the HSV variants,) but it also makes the engine more rev-happy at the same time.

Block

The LS3 features a more robust aluminum block alongside the displacement and bore increase, with revisions made to the casting and machining, providing improved bay-to-bay breathing.

Cylinder Heads

Although the displacement and bore improvements helped with the power gains, the newly-revised high-flow cylinder heads provide improved flow-rate, helping squeeze out valuable additional horses.

Adjustments to the intake size, shape, and runner length, similar to the L92 engines, all help maximize the potential.

This cylinder head design revision plays a vital role in the power gains, with LS enthusiasts and the forum community claiming that fitting LS3 heads to an LS2 block will provide a 20 hp increase while the further power gains fall to the LS3’s larger displacement.

Valvetrain

With the LS2 using 2.00” (50.8 mm) intake valves, the LS3 increases this to 2.16” (55 mm,) which reduced the mass by 13 percent.

Combined with the intake valves’ lightweight hollow stems, these help the engine achieve the newly-increased 6,600 rpm limit.

While the LS2’s high load valve springs are also found on the LS3, GM has opted for the L92’s larger 1.60” (40.4mm) diameter exhaust valves.

Intake

Flow-rate was one of the main priorities in the LS3, and the intake was another opportunity for improvement.

With the acoustically-tuned intake manifold on the LS3, the revised cylinder heads receive optimal airflow thanks to straightened intake runners.

This new design helps breathability and provides improved acoustics thanks to a special foam to radiate engine noise.

Sound is further improved with the new ‘beauty cover’, shielding the rocker covers, including an acoustically tuned insert to provide optimal acoustics.

Power increases from this are often discussed, with many claiming that the intake revision likely provides around 5-horsepower gains but undoubtedly helps further when tuning comes into play.

Pistons

Larger pistons unique to the LS3 engine are also designed to maximize the high-rpm performance capability.

Injectors

Using high-flow injectors previously found in the 7.0L LS7 engine, these provided an improved 5.0 g/s (47lb/hr) of fuel to the LS3’s engine.

Exhaust

The exhaust will vary between models, but the LS3 Corvette received an active exhaust system that features a butterfly valve opening in the upper rev-range.

The “tri-flow” design reduces restriction and also makes for a more pleasant cruising experience thanks to decreased sound when not desired.

Emissions

Revisions to the engine combined with the small-block layout enable the LS3 to pass the stricter Bin4 requirements, meet the newer emissions standards, and avoid higher-tier gas tax.

Camshaft

A revised camshaft was included, alongside updated camshaft timing.

Upgrades & Tuning Potential

With the improvements mentioned in the previous section, it should come as no surprise that the LS3 is the superior engine of the two for tuning and modifications.

While the robust block will keep the huge-power hunters satisfied, the cylinder heads and intake refinements also allow the engine to flow more freely to the redline.

When it comes to pure power in stock form, LS2 owners have the opportunity to install LS3 heads, which will close the power gap with a 20 horsepower increase.

However, the increased displacement and increased bore size will continue to make the LS3 the more desirable choice, which will not be quite as simple to achieve for LS2 owners.

As always, with LS engines, stroker kits will change the game, and forced induction can provide colossal power gains.

While forced induction will help the LS2 engine outperform the LS3, doing the same upgrades to the LS3 will always yield more impressive results thanks to the additional refinement.

Therefore, if significant power is your goal, then the LS3 will undoubtedly be the better choice.

With deep enough pockets, you’ll eventually be able to achieve more than 1200 hp from an LS3 powerplant, with the potential to do crazy things such as this:

Looking for the perfect heart for your classic dragster? The LS3 can be the perfect fit for you.

If you’re interested in building a decent spec car, make sure you check the How Much Do You Need for a Top-Tier Tune-Up? guide.

Should You Consider An LS Swap?

You may have heard the term ‘LS SWAP THE WORLD,’ and the drift scene certainly hasn’t managed to escape the LS love.

We’ve witnessed LS swaps in just about every chassis imaginable over the years, and with their compact size and weight, combined with reasonable price tags, it’s easy to see why so many are opting for V8 swaps.

While there are alternative JDM options out there, the colossal displacement and forced-induction friendliness of the LS family often make them so appealing.

With so much untapped power potential and robust internals, an LS turbo upgrade will enable you to reach some impressive power figures compared to trying to do so with the likes of an SR20DET.

If you’re interested in carrying out an LS swap but not sure which chassis you think would be the best fit, then make sure you check out our Best Project Cars guide for some reasonably-priced ideas.

Here are a few more LS swap ideas to get your creativity flowing:

Which Cars Have LS2 & LS3 engines?

From 2005-2009, the LS2 could be found in the following cars:

• Cadillac CTS-V (06-07)
• Chevrolet Corvette C6
• Chevrolet TrailBlazer SS
• Chevrolet SSR (Super Sport Roadster)
• Holden Special Vehicles (HSV)
• Pontiac GTO
• Saab 9-7X Aero
• Vauxhall Monaro VXR

From 2007-2017, the LS3 could be found in the following cars:

• Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible
• Chevrolet Camaro SS Coupe
• Chevrolet Corvette
• Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport
• Chevrolet SS
• Drakan Spyder
• Holden VF II Commodore
• Holden WN II Caprice-V
• HSV Clubsport GXP (Limited Edition)
• HSV Clubsport R8
• HSV Clubsport R8 20th Anniversary Edition (Limited Edition)
• HSV Clubsport R8 Tourer
• HSV Grange
• HSV GTS
• HSV Maloo R8
• HSV Maloo GXP (Limited Edition)
• HSV Senator Signature
• HSV Senator SV08 (Limited Edition)
• HSV W427
• Pontiac G8 GXP
• Vauxhall VXR8

Final Thoughts

Although many LS3 owners will probably disagree, we’ll be honest and say that we don’t feel that there’s a massive difference between the two engines.

Sure, in the head-to-head stats, the LS3 is undoubtedly superior. However, when it comes to getting behind the wheel of an LS2 vs an LS3 powered-car in stock form, you’re not going to notice a mind-blowing difference.

However, we will say that the LS3 would be the better choice for those of you who aren’t shy when it comes to achieving the engine’s full potential, and you’re willing to throw the necessary cash around to do so.

While the LS3 allows for maximal power delivery when pushed to the boundaries, you’re not likely to see huge differences between the two cars when heading out on a fast road blast around the canyons.

If you’re planning a crazy-horsepower drift or drag racing build, then the refinements carried out to the LS3 will provide far better breathing and revving capabilities, especially for those that are going down the forced induction route.

For those on a budget, the LS2 is going to be the better option. Not only is it far cheaper, but you’ll also have the opportunity to consider fitting the LS3 cylinder heads and still have the forced induction upgrade capabilities further down the line.

Conclusion

If you’re not just buying an engine, and you’re looking for the perfect car for your needs, vehicles with an LS2 are often sourced far more cheaply. Unless you’re absolutely in love with an LS3 engined-car, it’ll produce far more bang for your buck.

Although the LS3 is far more abundant and easily sourced than the LS2, LS3 production ended in 2015, so it’s still considered a relatively new engine in the grand scheme of things and likely comes with a price to match.

With the money saved, you can begin splashing out on upgrades, which will likely see you minimize the power difference between the two at minimal expense.

If you think you might be wanting to go for immense power further down the line, then the LS3 is likely to be worth forking out for initially, rather than having to upgrade later down the line.

Both of these engines are fantastic, and neither will disappoint.

Is the LS3 a better choice overall? Yes.

Would we rather have a turbo or supercharged LS2 over a stock LS3? Absolutely!

Are there other alternatives to consider on the market? You bet.

Two of the initial considerations for V8 enthusiasts should be the LT1 and LS1 engines.

For those looking to keep it JDM, you could consider the 1JZ, 1.5JZ, 13B, VQ37VHR, and 2JZ-GTE engines.

If you’re after a crazy-sized V8, look no further than the Vortec 8100.

Alongside these, we would also recommend checking out the LM7 engine, GM’s Gen III 5.3L small-block V8.

Although the LM7 might not be as refined as the LS, it’s often considered an underdog for those looking for a bargain-priced V8.

So, there we have it! We hope that we’ve covered everything you could want to know about LS2 and LS3’s in this guide.

Thank you for reading our LS2 vs LS3 guide.

If you enjoyed this article, please share it with the buttons at the bottom of your screen. If you’ve found this information useful, then please take a moment to share it with other LS, V8, and tuning enthusiasts. We appreciate your support.

Photography credits

We thank the following entities for the use of their photography in this article:

• Tom Reynolds on Flickr
• Dread Pirate Jeff on Flickr
• David Atkinson on Flickr
• David Atkinson on Flickr
• Tomás Del Coro on Flickr
• Danny Roberts on Flickr
• Albert Huynh on Flickr
• Michael on Flickr
• John Bui on Flickr
• Michael on Flickr

The post LS2 Vs LS3 – Which Is Best? first appeared on Drifted.com.

• Performance Mods
• 350Z Coilover Kits
• 350Z Exhausts
• 350Z Test Pipes
• 350Z Y-Pipes
• Exhaust Heat Wrap
• 350Z Cold Air Intake
• 350Z Plenum Spacer
• 350Z Turbo Kit
• 350Z Supercharger Kit
• 350Z Clutch
• 350Z Hydraulic Handbrake
• 350Z LS Swap
• Styling Mods
• 350Z Rear Diffuser
• 350Z Wing
• 350Z Front Lip
• 350Z Seats
• 350Z Rollcage
• 350Z Steering Wheel
• 350Z Work Wheels

Introduction

Now that we’ve built up an impressively comprehensive list of just about every tuning upgrade that’s worth doing for your 350Z, we’ve opted to get them all in one place to help you build the ultimate Z33.

We’re huge fans of the fifth generation of Nissan’s Z-car line here at Drifted, and with their prices becoming more reasonable than ever, it’s hard to ignore the ridiculous amounts of potential they have to offer.

Whether you’re looking to build a budget drift beater or a sleek and stylish stance car, the 350Z is capable of offering the best of both worlds.

Z-cars have skyrocketed in popularity since the introduction of the 240Z way back in 1970. Over the years, they continually evolved, and the raw driving energy that the 240Z provided still thrives in the 350Z.

Many enthusiasts feel that Nissan’s 350Z was the final Fairlady to capture this emotion, as the popular opinion is that the 370Z has somewhat detoured onto a more modern, refined route.

The introduction of Nissan’s 370Z undoubtedly pleased many of those who were tempted by a 350Z.

As the 370Z has become more affordable, an increasing volume of 350Zs is popping up on the marketplace with irresistible price tags, and it could well be the perfect time to cop your dream Z33.

Given that the 350Z is one of the final ‘true’ JDM drivers’ cars ever produced, it’s highly likely to become a cult classic on the drifting scene in the future.

The Perfect Mix of Affordability and Performance

With the likes of the Fairlady’s more popular sister, Silvia, often hogging the limelight, this has sent their prices skyrocketing in recent years, and 240SX’s now come with a significant ‘scene tax’ stamp duty.

We’ve also witnessed this growth with the likes of BMW’s 3-series, and reasonably priced rear-wheel-drive sports cars are becoming increasingly hard to find, spares are also becoming increasingly scarce.

For that reason, we feel that the 350Z represents the perfect opportunity when it comes to looks, affordability, and also performance.

There’s no shortage of reasonably-priced used parts when the wall-tap turns into an unfortunate wall-crunch, either.

Despite the Z33’s capabilities being impressive as soon as they rolled out of the showroom, there’s no question that both the chassis and engines are capable of providing so much more.

Both the VQ35DE and VQ35HR are fantastic powerplants in stock form, but they’re both hiding heaps of potential that we’re going to help you unleash.

We’ll discuss everything from bolt-on mods to turbo upgrades, and even the JDM fanboys’ worst nightmare – the dreaded V8 swap!

Not only that, but we’ll also look at everything else, from achieving the ultimate handling right the way through to the perfect head-unit. (Well, assuming your new exhaust isn’t too loud!)

Join us as we take a look at our favorite modifications on the market to transform your Nissan 350Z into the perfect weapon for the car park meet, the canyons, or the track.

Performance Mods

Although it’s a fantastic out-the-box package, we can’t deny that the 350Z is somewhat lacking in stock form, especially when going up against a high-performance rival.

Its grunty V6 engine is capable of achieving some tire-spinning fun, and some simple bolt-on engine mods along with a good tune can completely transform the performance.

Likewise, fitting a superior suspension kit is also a fantastic choice to make the chassis handle like it’s on rails, so let’s get started with our favorite coilover kits.

350Z Coilover Kits

Whether your tired stock suspension is beginning to show signs of age, excessive body roll or you feel as though the existing suspension has more to offer, these coilover kits will be the perfect upgrade.

For a comprehensive coilover suspension kit review, before you make your final selection, we highly recommend that you head over to our Ultimate 350z Coilover Guide.

Drifted Coilover Winner

APEXi N1 ExV Damper Coilover Kit

• Manufacturer: APEXi
• Levels of damping adjustment: 32
• Construction type: Monotube
• Spring rate front: 10kg/mm
• Spring rate rear: 8kg/mm
• Purchase link: Buy your APEXi N1 ExV’s here

Our comment: Japanese tuning legends APEXi have provided a fantastically-priced coilover option for those who of you that are looking for a budget setup, which offers incredible value for money.

They came in as the cheapest coilovers in our in-depth coilover guide, but after looking at their specifications, features, quality of build materials, and price tag, they won the award for the best all-rounder.

Manufacturer description: “APEXi N1 ExV is the newest line of coilover kits from Apexi featuring dual height and 32 way dampening adjustments. ExV, which stands for “Expert Type V” was designed to the be ultimate street suspension with no compromise for ride quality and price”.

“Features include:
– 44mm Monotube Damper w/ 32 way adjustments
– Full dual height adjustable body for fine adjustments
– Spanner wrench and accessories included
– High quality design and manufacturing”

“A must have for anyone doing track days and spirited driving. Will improve car handling and response effectively”.

Drifted Coilover Alternatives

If you’re looking for a more substantial track-oriented setup, then our Track Choice, the Apexi N1 Evolution Damper is going to be a perfect alternative.

Alternatively, our Domestic Choice went to the Stance XR1 coilovers, which offer a mid-range price point alongside impressive performance.

And while you’re at it, consider getting a sway bar kit for some additional stability.

350Z Exhausts

Exhausts are one of the quickest and easiest bolt-on modifications that will completely transform the look and sound of your 350Z, while also providing some minor performance gains.

If you’re modding your 350Z, then an aftermarket exhaust is a must-have addition.

You can also invest in a high flow cat for another performance boost!

Make sure you check out our 350Z Exhaust Guide to experience the true potential that these upgraded exhaust systems and catalytic converter kits have to offer, as we’ve also included videos with sound clips from each model.

Drifted Exhaust Winner

TOMEI Expreme Ti 350z exhaust

• Manufacturer: TOMEI
• Internal pipe diameter: 60.5mm
• Tailpipe configuration: Single 76.3mm exit
• Primary exhaust system material: Titanium
• Purchase link: Buy your TOMEI Expreme Ti 350z exhaust here

Our comment: TOMEI’s Expreme Ti series offers incredible value for money, and also looks the part with its burnt titanium tip.

You’re going to struggle to find better value for money than this incredibly light exhaust, which is why it’s become so popular throughout the JDM tuning world.

As for sound, expect to finally release the full potential of the 350Z’s V6 extraordinary pops, bangs, and wails as it roars to life!

Manufacturer description: “Instead of creating an exhaust system that focuses only on maximum peak power, Tomei’s priority for this kit is overall engine performance gains. Each tube’s length and size are selected to suit the engine’s characteristics and chassis to maximize torque, response, and exhaust flow efficiency. The use of titanium combined with the single piping layout reduces overall weight from approximately 45 pounds to an ultra-low 10 pounds”.

Drifted Exhaust Alternatives

With impressive performance gains, the free-flowing AAM Competition 3″ True Dual Titanium Tip exhaust comes highly recommended for high-powered forced induction builds. coilovers, which offer a mid-range price point alongside impressive performance.

Be warned that our Premium Choice AAM exhaust is on the loud side, and most definitely won’t win over any neighbors!

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly single-tip exhaust, then our Budget Winner, the ISR Performance Single GT Exhaust, could be the solution.

This bargain exhaust is more circuit, and neighbor-friendly, featuring a muffler and silencer and utilizes a single 115mm tailpipe.

350Z Test Pipes

Test Pipes are often one of the first reasonably-priced modifications for your 350Z, and you’ll achieve the most out of your VQ35 engine once you get the improve the restrictive stock exhaust flow.

When combined with a performance exhaust system, headers, and a CAI, you’ll undoubtedly see even more significant improvements.

In case you’re not already aware, test pipes don’t go down well in most states, so we recommend doing your research before purchasing.

If you’d like to take a look at the alternatives on offer, then make sure you head over to our 350Z Test Pipes guide.

Drifted Test Pipes Winner

AAM Competition 350z Test Pipes

AAM states that their test pipes have the highest flow available, and we have no reason to doubt them.

With dyno graphs backing up their 8-10 RWHP claims from a stock 350Z, they certainly seem to have brought the most impressive product to the market at an extremely reasonable price.

Combine this with exceptional quality, fitment, performance, and compatibility with reducing CEL’s, and it’s a no-brainer why so many 350Z owners opt for the AAM Test Pipes.

Manufacturer description:

• Highest Flow Available
• Dyno testing has shown 8-10 RWHP gains on a stock 2004 Nissan 350Z!
• Precision TIG welded T-304 Stainless Steel
• T304 stainless steel flanges
• Saves 11 pounds

350Z Y-Pipes

Y-Pipes merge the VQ35’s exhaust headers onto the exhaust, and these override the restrictive, emission-reducing OEM part.

These will provide a far superior exhaust tone, minor power improvements, and also provide you with some welcome weight-reduction.

If you’d like to check out the alternatives on offer, then make head over to our 350Z Y-Pipes Guide.

Drifted Y-Pipes Winner

AAM Competition 350z Y-Pipes

AAM Competition has once again won us, and most 350Z enthusiasts over with their fantastic Y-Pipe offering.

Featuring exceptionally high quality at a reasonable price, these T-304 Stainless Steel Y-Pipes will be the perfect addition to your 350Z, providing an impressive 8 RWHP over the restrictive OEM system.

Manufacturer description: “Using smooth 2.5″ mandrel bent tubing and stainless steel flex joints which flow into one large 3″ tube, the AAM Comp Y-Pipe improves upon the factory Y-Pipe’s restrictive design by allowing a substantial increase in the mass of exhaust flow, and reduces the backpressure and thermal stress, which helps to unleash the engine’s potential for increased power and torque”.

• Inlet: 2.5″
• Factory Y-Pipe: approx 16 lbs
• AAM Comp Y-Pipe: approx 12 lbs
• Weight savings: 4 lbs
• Recommended install time: 1 hour

350Z Headers

Exhaust headers are another popular upgrade when it comes to getting your VQ35 engine breathing to its true potential.

Although the stock headers aren’t too restrictive, tuning houses across the world have spent years refining the perfect designs for maximum power gains.

TOMEI have taken the win this time around, but if you’d like to take a look at the other options, then make sure you head over to our 350Z Headers Guide.

Drifted Headers Winner

TOMEI Expreme V2 350Z Exhaust Headers

The TOMEI V2 headers took the win because of the performance gains and price point. Picking up a pair of TOMEI headers is an excellent choice for any 350z owner that wants improved power delivery, increased top-end power, and enjoys a great exhaust tone.

The headers are well built, look fantastic, and comes with everything you need to bolt right on. When combined with a free-flowing exhaust system, the performance gains will be impressive for an NA engine.

Manufacturer description: “The new Tomei Expreme exhaust manifold V2 design targets a sharper throttle response, a true race-exhaust sound, and increased power gains. Tomei tests their designs on both a dyno and in real road conditions in the Z Masters race series in Japan, so you know you are getting an exhaust manifold that gives you a competitive edge”.

“This exhaust manifold gives you the high airflow you need for a better driving experience”.

• The Tomei Expreme exhaust manifold V2 is engineered for maximum performance
• The pipe bends are designed to maximize exhaust flow efficiency
• The merging section joint angles have been flow tested
• Bolt on kit

Exhaust Heat Wrap

Heat wrap is perfect for making the most out of your new exhaust components, such as your headers.

Exhaust wrap will not only improve their lifespan due to heating up and cooling down effectively, but it also provides increased engine efficiency by keeping the engine bay temperatures down.

Some wraps are rated to improve engine bay temperatures by up to 50%, which is a vast improvement for such reasonable value.

If you’re looking to upgrade your breathing mods, we’d highly recommend fitting heat wrap before installing.

Make sure you also check out the alternatives in our Exhaust Heat Wrap guide.

Drifted Exhaust Heat Wrap Winner

DEi Titanium Thermal Exhaust Wrap

DEi’s Titanium heat wrap is equipped with LR technology, which has been made from pulverized lava rock and stranded into a fiber material before being woven into a proprietary weave.

Titanium wrap is engineered to be more durable than other wraps on the market and also more durable, providing improved thermal performance and reliability.

DEi’s wrap is one of the best when it comes to withstanding heat, too. With 1800˚F direct heat and 2500˚F radiant, it’s undoubtedly going to be perfect for your needs.

Manufacturer description:

• Withstands 1800˚F direct/2500˚F intermittent heat
• Promotes increased flow for improved performance
• Reduces temperature & vibration breakdown
• Extremely pliable for a tight and secure wrap
• DEI HT Silicone Coating not required
• Pre-wetting roll not necessary for wrapping
• Hi-tech carbon fiber look
• High resistance to abrasions, oil spills, temperatures and vibration breakdown

350Z Cold Air Intake

Upgrading the VQ 35’s intake is typically one of the first performance modifications that 350Z owners carry out.

Changing out your stock airbox and filter for an aftermarket unit will increase the power, improve throttle response, generate increased intake noise, and improve the look of the engine bay.

Cold air intakes are easy to fit yourself, and for Nissan’s 350z, they offer impressively cost-effective performance benefits.

Drifted 350Z Cold Air Intake Winner

Takeda 350Z Cold Air Intake

Takeda is claiming that this high-quality cold air intake is going to bolt on an extra 19bhp and 16flt/lbs of torque to your 350Z.

Although we take that with a pinch of salt, if it’s anywhere near, then it’s a substantial gain for less than 300 bucks.

The Takeda Air Intake is an impressively designed, yet simple kit, which includes an aluminium short ram pipe with a Takeda Pro Dry S oil-less filter.

We feel that this CAI is a real bargain, but if you’d like to view the alternatives on the market, then head to our 350Z Cold Air Intake Guide.

Manufacturer description: “Takeda Retain is the Takeda Short Ram lineup. These intakes create simple, bolt-on horsepower that requires simple, quick installation and no bumper removal. Some of the short ram intakes include a wrinkle black heat shield”.

“Takeda Air Intake Systems use a revolutionary new Pro Dry S Filter Media that works without filter oil. This media is easier and faster to clean than traditional foam, and requires no costly and messy solvents or oils”.

“Takeda filters can be cleaned in a matter of minutes and are ready to use after only a couple of hours of drying time. Unlike pre-oiled or disposable filters, Takeda Filters are Lifetime Filters that will last as long as you own your vehicle”.

350Z Plenum Spacer

Intake plenum spacers are a cost-effective power modification for both stock and modified 350z (VQ35DE) engines.

Shortly after Nissan Z33 was released, tuners and enthusiasts discovered that there were inefficiencies in the design of the standard intake plenum that showed potential for improvement.

They found that by increasing the volume of air passing into the intake plenum, it could liberate increased horsepower and torque.

An efficient way of taking advantage of this is by adding a spacer to the intake plenum.

Intake plenum spacers have been dyno proven to yield more than 10 BHP. For only a couple of hundred dollars, they provide incredible gains for the cost.

Not only do they improve performance, but they’ll even provide improved mpg, making it a real no-brainer.

Keen to know more? Check out our full 350Z Intake Plenum Spacer Guide here.

Drifted 350Z Plenum Spacer Winner

Skunk2 350z Intake Plenum Spacer

The Skunk2 intake plenum spacer is now on version 2 and, this latest revision offers you excellent value for money.

With a dyno-proven 10 BHP gain, claims of improved throttle response and, enhanced gas mileage, the Skunk2 offering makes a perfect case for itself.

Manufacturer description: “Skunk2’s revised Nissan/Infiniti VQ35 Composite Intake Plenum Spacer V2.0 is dyno proven and road tested to outperform all other intake manifold plenum spacers”.

“Skunk2’s Intake Plenum Spacer V2.0 features a number of improvements, including a thicker design that increases plenum volume, lowers intake temperatures, and allows the engine’s front cylinders to breathe more efficiently”.

“All of this results in gains as high as 10 hp, increased throttle response, and a fuel efficiency increase of more than 2mpg. Unlike competitors’ spacers, Skunk2’s Intake Plenum Spacer V2.0 is constructed from an aerospace thermo-polymer composite that offers superior thermal insulation characteristics when compared to aluminum spacers or other heat-insulating gasket materials”.

350Z Turbo Kit

The stock 285 PS may be adequate for the street, but if you’re serious about increasing power from the naturally aspirated VQ35 engine, then you’re going to have to dig deep.

Tuning a naturally aspirated engine is expensive, but can certainly provide some much-needed power gains, which will undoubtedly help with getting your 350Z sideways at the track!

There are several 350Z Turbo Kits available, so make sure you head over to our full 350Z Turbo Kit Guide before making the substantial decision.

Drifted 350Z Turbo Kit Winner

Jim Wolf Technologies Twin Turbo kit

The JWT kit is a great starter turbo kit that comes in at a mid-level price point.

Offering 125 WHP out of the box and impressive reliability claims, this could be the perfect solution to safely increasing your power.

Further upgrade options for this kit are also available to make things even more exciting.

With the high quality of components, USA based manufacturing and support base, low boost twin-turbo response, motorsport-proven track record (the kit was developed on their own competition car), and price point the JWT Twin Turbo kit makes an exceptional case for itself.

Manufacturer description: “JWT originally designed this kit as a feasibility study in conjunction with Garrett and Infiniti’s product planner at the time. The kit is designed around the O.E. criteria for reliability, no boost lag, and safe but significant power levels”.

“The JWT Twin Turbo Kit has accomplished this and more over thousands of miles of reliable track and street use since it’s release. All critical airflow junctions use application specific castings to maximize flow and eliminate boost lag. Turbo outlets have isolated waste paths to improve turbine efficiency”.

“JWT has combined high efficiency Garrett GT Ball Bearing Turbos, Garrett charge cooler cores (700+hp rated) with over 300 individual parts, to create the most complete and reliable bolt on forced induction system available for Nissan and Infiniti VQ35 vehicles”.

“No other boosting solution combines the reliability, performance, and throttle responsiveness of this system”.

“This system is complete requiring no other modifications to deliver an additional 125WHP and much more with additional JWT upgrade stages”.

350Z Supercharger Kit

We’ve already taken a look at our Turbocharger options that are available on the market above.

However, for those of you that are looking for a more linear power delivery, a supercharger kit is likely to be the ideal choice.

Not sure about the differences between the two forced induction options? We highly recommend that you take a look at our Turbocharger vs. Supercharger Guide before you make your decision.

If you’re interested in the other supercharger options available for the 350Z, then head over to our 350Z Supercharger Guide.

Drifted 350Z Supercharger Kit Winner

Vortech Supercharger Kit

Vortech has put their years of valuable knowledge in the supercharging scene to create the ultimate kit for 350z owners.

Vortech combines great value for money with impressive build quality, reliability, and customer service. Not only that, but it’s also one of the most convenient supercharger kits to install (around 8-12 hours).

With owners making an impressive 410hp from the kit and 440hp from the ‘Rev-Up’ variation, it’s easy to see why so many have made this their choice. This kit also includes upgrade options to gain additional power, with over 577 RWHP being achieved!

From ease of installation, value for money and upgradability, this will future-proof your 350Z to ensure that you’re always at the top of your game.

Manufacturer description: “The 350Z system uses Vortech’s V-3 SCi supercharger. Continued development in Vortech’s Lab resulted in the V-3 SCi. The “i” stands for improved and with its new patented oil control system and state of the art centrifugal compressor stage this V-3 literally blows away the competition. Industry leading 75% adiabatic efficiency [SAE J1723 standard] means less heat is being generated, reduced drive power and more net power is produced. Less heat also means better durability, easier on the engine than any turbo installation”.

“Vortech supercharger systems are a great value. Dollar for dollar, Vortech systems deliver more horsepower than virtually any other method of upgrade. Also, driven normally, gas mileage usually increases”.

“Vortech’s 350Z Supercharger Systems are available as either a complete, fully calibrated bolt-on system, or as a Tuner Kit for custom installations at over 500 HP. And with Vortech’s many upgrade solutions, there is always more power when you are ready”.

350Z Clutch

Sooner or later, it’ll be time to replace your 350Z clutch, but it can be challenging to decide whether an OEM replacement or an aftermarket uprated clutch is likely to be best for your needs.

The 350Z’s clutch and gearboxes certainly aren’t the quietest or smoothest, but it’s part of the beauty of the Z33.

When deciding which clutch is best for your needs, we highly recommend considering the plans for your 350Z.

If you have long-term big power goals, then we highly recommend investing in an uprated performance clutch right away.

If you’re interested to know more about 350Z clutches, we’ve gone into far more detail with the full range of products on the market in our 350Z Clutch Guide.

Drifted 350Z Clutch Winner

Jim Wolf Technologies (JWT) Clutch Kit

JWT continues to bring incredible products to the 350Z market, and their clutches certainly don’t disappoint. Given that most owners reading this guide won’t be planning to go crazy power, it’s the best bang-for-your-buck choice for those who want a simple, reliable alternative to the stock clutch.

If you are planning for substantial power gains, there are still plenty of other options out there. You’ll want to check out the ATS, EXEDY, and South Bend/DXD selection.

For those of you that aren’t looking at substantial power increases shortly, EXEDY has a reasonably-priced OEM replacement, which will be perfect for your needs.

Manufacturer description: “1200KG clamping force and a smooth organic disc makes this the best choice for street / track 350Z-G35 including boosted cars!”

350Z Hydraulic Handbrake

It is common knowledge that the stock brakes on the 350Z leave a lot to be desired. The same goes for the hand brake as well.

Is your stock handbrake struggling to live up to your drift hero expectations? A hydraulic handbrake is a perfect solution for your issues.

Sure, the stock hand brakes in the 350Zs may well be adequate for your needs when kicking the back end out in a parking lot.

However, when it comes to tricky initiations at the track, a hydraulic handbrake is going to be the best choice to maximize your potential.

Other benefits of switching to a hydraulic hand braking system are that the traditional handbrake operates on a cable, and over time, mainly when used in anger, that cable will end up stretching and potentially snapping. Repeatedly.

For that reason, those of you that are keen to drift their 350Z’s will undoubtedly need to consider upgrading to a hydro at some point soon, and our Hydraulic Handbrake Guide provides you with everything you need to know.

Drifted 350Z Hydraulic Handbrake Winner

OBP Motorsport Pro-Drift V3 Lockable Hydraulic Handbrake

UK-based OBP Motorsports are one of the highest-regarded brands in motorsport, and commonly found in competitive drift cars which vouch for their reputation.

The exceptional quality of this hydraulic hand brake upgrade and its fantastic price has unsurprisingly earned praise as it deservedly conquers the top spot.

Manufacturer description: “The Pro-Drift V3 – Our Flagship Hydraulic Handbrake. The pinnacle of engineering, which can be universally mounted for any Motorsport application”.

“With an ergonomic design, manufactured from Aircraft Grade T6061 Aluminium and incredible build quality. The Pro-Drift V3 is the only choice for serious contenders”.

350Z LS Swap

We’re going to end our performance section with the opportunity to carry out a rather drastic performance upgrade.

Don’t get us wrong here, both the VQ35DE and HR are fantastic engines, and with the addition of supercharging and twin-turbocharging both being an option, they are capable of becoming a real weapon.

However, we’ve witnessed first-hand just how expensive aftermarket forced induction on a stock engine can become.

If you’re lucky enough to have deep pockets, it is undoubtedly a solid choice, but if you’re looking for an improved power-to-money ratio, LS swaps often offer more potential. (Sorry, Japan.)

If you’re keen to stir up a little controversy, then why not create stupendous amounts of noise and have enough power to comfortably throw it down sideways at the track while also maintaining reliability?

LS-swapping is certainly nothing new, and 350Z owners have been doing it since the early 2000s, but with today’s off-the-shelf products, it’s more affordable and convenient than ever.

Sure, you’re going to upset your JDM fanboy buddies while you feel the need to scream ‘LS THE WORLD!’, but you’ll soon forget about that when you’ve got a smoke trail billowing from the rear tires, and you can comfortably make the round trip to the local track day without breaking down.

Not to mention the fact that you can then go on to turbocharge your LS1 to create even more ridiculous power gains.

If you’re willing to consider V8 swapping your V6 350Z, then we’ve provided you with everything you need to know in our 350Z LS Swap Guide.

Styling Mods

The tuning potential of the 350Z certainly doesn’t stop at performance upgrades, and there’s a huge selection of choices out there when it comes to perfecting the sleek lines of the 350Z.

Although the 350Z looks excellent in stock form, there’s certainly room for improvement, especially if you want a drift build or a show car with loads of camber that stands out. We hope that these upgrades will help you craft your unique vision.

We think we’ve covered just about everything in our guides, but if there are any additional styling modifications that you’d specifically like our help on, then don’t hesitate to drop us a line.

350Z Rear Diffuser

Do you think that your Fairlady’s rear end could do with some improvements? If so, we’ve got plenty of solutions for you to see what takes your fancy in our full 350Z Rear Diffuser guide.

When it comes to rear diffusers for the 350z, there are a few tried and tested extremely popular methods, and will drastically transform that slightly dull factory rear end.

If you’re looking for a carbon fiber diffuser, it’s worth remembering that it’s a difficult material to get perfect, and high-quality carbon fiber generally comes at a price, which doesn’t make it too ideal for drifting!

With fiberglass products, they’re easily tweaked, repaired, and modified, and they’re often going to need some form of adjustment to get the perfect fitment.

You can either get a professional body shop to do this for you (trust me, they’re used to modifying fiberglass parts!) or take on a DIY job of your own.

Drifted 350Z Rear Diffuser Winner

Circuit Sports 350z Rear Diffuser

The Circuit Sports rear diffuser comes in both unpainted fiberglass or carbon fiber variations, depending on how much you’re looking to spend.

Circuit Sports are well known for delivering excellent quality for competitive prices. Whether you’re after stunning carbon fiber or wanting your diffuser to match the rest of the car, they have the perfect answer.

This diffuser is a fantastic choice for those of you that are running either a single-exit exhaust as you can purchase the optional extra exhaust block-off cap.

Manufacturer description: “Circuit Sports UV Protected Carbon Fiber Rear Diffuser for Nissan 350Z Z33. Enhance the rear end of your 350z with this beautiful gloss rear diffuser”.

“Comes standard with dual exhaust cutouts and for single exhaust 350Z’s. Please purchase the block off cap separately”.

350Z Wing

There’s a huge variety of 350z wings on the market, so we’ve narrowed it down to some of the best, and most popular picks out there in our 350Z Wing Guide to save you countless hours of searching.

There are a variety of reasons why owners fit rear wings, from the smaller trunk lip, which provides a subtle addition to polish off the rear-end, right the way through to the damn right outrageous chassis-mounted wings for the ultimate head-turner.

Whether you’re looking to add some subtle styling to your stanced-out street Z or looking to whack the local media guy around the head with your gigantic wang of destiny, there’s undoubtedly an ideal choice for you on the market.

Drifted 350Z Wing Winner

Big Country Labs Atmosphere Demolisher Wing Kit

Big Country Labs have been increasing in popularity over the years with their audacious approach to the big-wing game.

Sure, their BGW’s might not be to everyone’s taste (that’s what tuning is all about!), but there’s no doubt that their Atmosphere Demolisher kit will completely transform the look of your Z.

These look insane on slammed, widebody cars, and if you’ve got a big build planned and you’re looking to make an impression at the track or the meet, you’ve most likely met your match!

With a vast array of customization options, which allows you to choose the upright style, material (carbon fiber is available), size, and even your personalized choice of end-plates, this allows for a unique finishing touch to your ride.

We know of several owners running BCL wings, and they’ve been delighted with them. Dare to be different!

Manufacturer description: “Big Country Labs wing decks are made of the highest quality materials to stand up to your toughest beatdown. Fiberglass decks are vacuum-formed and arrive in a smooth matte finish. Carbon fiber decks feature a tight weave and ultra high gloss finish”.

“All wing decks include stainless steel mounting hardware, cup-washers, and adjustable laser-cut aluminum endplates”.

Kit includes:

• Wing deck in 1700mm or new 1850mm
• Upper Brackets
• Trunk Brackets
• Uprights
• Endplates
• Stainless steel hardware kit with counter-sunk washers

350Z Front Lip

Although the 350Z looks excellent in stock form, the OEM body kit is missing that ‘ground-hugging’ look, and by adding a front lip to your existing Nissan bumper, it can completely transform the front-end.

There’s a wide variety of selections available for 350Z’s on the market, and in our full 350Z Front Lip Guide, we’ve taken a look at the various options that are available out there.

If you’re frequently heading to the track, it may be an ideal choice to look at some of the cheaper FRP options, since that minor crash will probably be a bit more painful if you’ve also got the thought of carbon fiber repairs to consider.

Drifted 350Z Front Lip Winner

Seibon CW Style Carbon Fiber Front Lip

Based on quality, value, fitment, customer service, and popularity, we opted for this stylish carbon fiber offering from Seibon as our Drifted Winner.

Admittedly, there will be better options in our full guide for those of you that will be drifting their 350Z’s.

As far as looks go, we think that the Seibon lip looks pretty damn awesome, and we’re confident that you won’t be disappointed with Seibon’s quality, either.

Manufacturer description: “Seibon Carbon components are carefully hand-crafted using only the finest materials. Our production team offers superior craftsmanship with over 15 years of experience working with carbon fiber”.

“Every component is constructed with a consistent weave pattern. Our production processes allow exceptional carbon/resin ratio, creating high product stiffness that also leads to extra strength”.

”For a stunning finish, our products are coated with a glossy clear coat that does not chip or flake. We meticulously inspect all of our components and stand firmly behind our products so that you can enjoy peace of mind with every genuine Seibon Carbon product”.

350Z Seats

If you intend to use your car on the track, whether it’s for drifting, grip racing, or even autocross, you’re going to have to consider swapping out your seats at some point, as the stock ones will most likely end up throwing you around the car.

When pushing the car to the limits, the last thing you want to do is have a tug-of-war match with the steering wheel against the slippy stock seats.

As well as firmly holding you in place, there’s a whole range of additional reasons why aftermarket seats are ideal for any tuned car, and we explore all of them in the full Ultimate 350z Seat Buying Guide.

Drifted 350Z Seats Winner

Bride Gias II

Although there’s a wide range of incredible seats in our guide, the highly-acclaimed JDM legends, Bride took the win with their incredible Gias II seats.

If you’re a fan of JDM upgrades, Bride seats should undoubtedly be a consideration and are well worth saving up for, offering unrivaled comfort, and looks.

Just make sure you don’t end up buying fakes, as seats are one of the most vital safety aspects when it comes to upgrades. You may be surprised to hear that there are a LOT of fake Bride’s on the market, sadly.

We’ve chosen the Gias II for their reclining back function, which makes them practical on both the street and the track, but if you’re building a track-oriented car, then we have plenty of fixed-back alternatives in our guide which will be worth considering.

Manufacturer description: “By adopting a super monocoque shell structure and an all-aluminum frame, GIAS series is a sporty reclining sports seat which realizes both lightweight and rigidity. The design deeply envelops the driver and realizes high holdability”.

“For the GIAS backrest we utilize a monocoque structure shell for decreased weight and reinforced rigidity. The shell materials we provide are 3 types including the lightweight and strong carbon aramid, the super aramid black shells which have superior tensile strength the same as carbon aramid which is only used by BRIDE, and FRP”.

350Z Rollcage

If you’re going to be pushing your 350Z to the limits at the track, then a rollcage is another must-have safety feature that you’ll need to integrate into your build.

Admittedly, they’re not the most exciting things to spend money on, but you can’t put a price on safety.

We’ve covered all of the options available in our full 350Z Rollcage Guide, and we highly recommend taking a look at what best suits your needs, whether you’re after a bolt-in or welded cage.

Drifted 350Z Rollcage Winner

ER Spec Nissan 350Z Drift Roll Cage

This roll cage from ER Spec has been built by the Nissan experts at Enjuku Racing specifically with drifting in mind.

Each kit is hand-made to order, and this specific option requires welding, which is the best choice for the ultimate safety levels, and aimed at enthusiasts or competitors that are serious about their drifting or racing.

This kit is a real bargain, but you will need to consider whether you’ll be fitting it yourself, with a buddy, or taking it to the local experts (which we’d personally recommend.) Although this option comes with an additional cost when it comes to fitting, it’ll be worth it for peace of mind.

If you are interested in caging your 350z, then our 350z bash bar guide may be worth a look.

Manufacturer description: “Stay safe with an ER Spec drift car roll cage. Designed to protect you and manufactured with durable steel, this cage is a professional grade upgrade to your vehicle’s safety profile. It’s a must-have safety feature for any race vehicle”.

“This drift car roll cage is weld-on, not bolt-in, therefore we strongly recommend these be installed by a professional fabricator experienced with installing roll cages. If you have any questions regarding bar placement or fitment please contact us prior to installing the cage completely”.

350Z Steering Wheel

Another consideration when it comes to modding is an aftermarket steering wheel, which replaces the chunky and somewhat awkward stock wheel, with something that’ll give you far more confidence when drifting.

If you’ve not upgraded your stock steering wheel before, you’ll be surprised how much of a difference a nice steering wheel can make to the feel of the car when driving, especially if you’re spinning the wheel from lock-to-lock when throwing the car sideways.

There are plenty of choices out there, so make sure you head over to our Ultimate Racing Steering Wheel Guide before you make the tricky decision.

Drifted 350Z Steering Wheel Winner

Nardi Deep Corn

Nardi is a legendary brand in the steering wheel game, and they’ve been impressing enthusiasts across the world since 1932.

From old-school race cars to modern-day top-level drift competitions such as D1GP, they’re hard to beat when it comes to looks, but they also offer exceptional quality for a reasonable price.

There are a variety of options and materials available for Nardi wheels, so make sure you check out our full guide.

Manufacturer description: “Nardi has been developing the highest quality steering wheels since 1932”.

“Nardi steering wheels are extremely prestigious and represent for many, the ultimate finish to the interior of a race or prestige car. Italian made with excellent quality materials, they enjoy an exemplary finish and are acclaimed worldwide. Used as OEM pieces by Mazda, Subaru, Ferrari, Pagani and many more”.

WORK Wheels

Okay, so admittedly they aren’t 350Z specific, but we feel that WORK are quite literally the most incredible wheels on the market, and they will undoubtedly transform the look of your 350Z and also give you instant hero status in your neighborhood. (We don’t hold any guarantees on that last statement, but it’s highly likely!)

We’ve spent a lot of time looking through all of the various options on the market when it comes to WORK Wheels, and we’ve got specific guides that will provide everything you need to know if you’re planning to fit them to your 350Z.

First up are WORK Emotion, these are their most affordable product line but still retain the same quality that you’d expect from their most expensive wheels.

Emotion is one of the most popular of their thirty product lines and is best known for bringing us wheels such as CR Kai, Kiwami, right the way through to their incredible three-piece CR-3P’s.

Next up is the WORK Meister range. The S1 wheels which are pictured above are the cult classics of this range. And the deep-dish three-piece’s are absolute head turners.

Be careful if you decide to fit these to a drift car, though, as you’ll probably shed a tear if they get damaged!

Finally, we have the WORK Equip range, which is best known for bringing us the Equip 05 wheels, which are another classic on the JDM tuning scene, and suit the 350Z perfectly.

If you can’t stretch to a set of brand new custom spec WORKS, you can always look for a used set, and purchase 350z wheel spacers to make them sit just right.

Conclusion

There we have it! This colossal guide should provide you with the perfect products to build the ultimate Fairlady.

If our picks haven’t been quite what you were looking for, then make sure you visit the full guide for each section, where we’ve compared any product that we feel is worth considering on the market.

If we’ve missed any mods that you’d love to see in our guide, then please feel free to drop us a line, and we’ll be more than happy to compare the best products for you to take your pick.

If you’re looking for the best 350z lowering springs on the market, here’s our Ultimate 350z Lowering Springs Guide.

Want to learn more about the latest addition to the Z family? Then, check out our Ultimate Nissan 400Z Guide.

Have a look here to learn more about the Z cars of yester-year which paved the way for the 350Z.

Thank you for reading our 350Z Mods guide.

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Photography credits

We thank the following entities for the use of their photography in this article:

• Ravspec
• Ravspec
• Fitment Industries

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