In the world of high-octane performance, where every millisecond counts, AMS Performance has redefined what’s possible with the latest Nissan Z by clocking a 9.23-second quarter-mile at 149 mph. While most tuner cars need fully built engines to crack 9-second passes, this Nissan Z just rewrites the rulebook with a bone-stock engine block and a heavy dose of engineering genius, including bolt-on mods from upgraded intake and exhaust to a high-performance intercooler and AMS-engineered turbos. Let’s learn more about the story behind AMS’ record-breaking Nissan Z!
The Build: Maximizing Potential with Bolt-Ons
There is the VR30DDTT twin-turbo V6 engine at the heart of the Nissan Z. AMS Performance managed to extract 820 wheel horsepower using a suite of bolt-on modifications (without altering the stock internals of the powerplant):
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Upgraded Intake System: Increases airflow into the engine.
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High-performance Intercooler: Reduces intake air temperatures, resulting in a denser air charge.
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Free-flowing Exhaust System: Lowers backpressure and allows exhaust gases to exit efficiently.
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Enhanced Heat Exchanger: Maintains optimal engine temperatures during high-performance runs.
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Advanced Fuel System Components: Provides consistent fuel delivery during peak demand.
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In-House Developed Turbochargers: Specifically designed to work with the VR30DDTT engine.
These modifications, combined with an engine tune, showcase the untapped potential of the stock VR30DTT components when paired with expertly engineered aftermarket bolt-on parts.
Transmission Triumph: Stock Yet Sturdy
What's really cool is that they kept the original 9-speed automatic transmission. Even with the big boost in power, the transmission managed the extra output like a champ, keeping things steady during a bunch of full-throttle launches. This performance really highlights how solid Nissan's engineering is and the careful tuning done by AMS.
Traction and Suspension: Keeping It Grounded
To tap into all that power, AMS hooked up the Nissan Z with some huge Hoosier drag radials, making sure it gets the best grip when taking off. Interestingly, the suspension setup remains largely stock, with no significant alterations to ride height or geometry, further emphasizing the car’s dual nature as both a street and strip performer.
Setting A New Standard
Other modified Nissan Zs, like Emelia Hartford's 2,000-horsepower build, have run faster times, but her car was engine-swapped—it had the R35 GTR’s VR38 engine to begin with. AMS Performance's run stands out because it is easy for anyone to do. Their build incorporates the stock powertrain, including the transmission, which makes this level of performance easier for enthusiasts to reach.
The Future of Nissan Z Tuning
This achievement by AMS Performance not only sets a new benchmark for the Nissan Z but also opens the door for enthusiasts to explore the car’s potential without truly extensive modifications. It makes a strong case for the power of the correct combination of bolt-on upgrades and the performance that's still unlocked in modern sports cars' stock parts. The Nissan Z is a great platform for people who want to start tuning their cars because it combines the dependability of a factory car with the thrill of high-performance driving.
Images: AMS Performance
