I opened the thread just to post this...

450+ whp in a 1st gen... Feels awesome.... LOL!!!
Seriously, a well balanced 250-300hp system will work beautifully,
be very fast, and would not require an entire drivetrain and suspension upgrade to enjoy safely.

 

I think 300 hp would be a lot of fun. But really, you're going to want to everything else to the car first (suspension, brakes, bushings, cooling system, etc.). Otherwise, you're going to be a hazard to yourself and everyone else.

Also, are you really sure you need that kind of power? These cars are better at being quick than being fast. I'm probably putting down about half that much power, and its more than enough to put a smile on my face every time I drive it hard.


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All joking aside, a comparison of numbers may help establish "feel:"

My '03 Z runs 290hp/274ftlb (per the "safe" book; actual is a little higher per people who have dyno'ed them), and it's enough to give satisfactory tunnel vision on a fast launch, & make unsuspecting passengers suck wind and grab for the handles.

Bone stock on 91 octane, they have posted 13.8 quarters at over 100mph trap speeds:

http://www.dragtimes.com/Nissan-350Z...lip-10477.html

The Z weighs in at 3400 pounds dry.

That's around a thousand pounds heavier than a first-gen.

Since acceleration is a function of power, weight, and traction, putting 25% more horspower into a car with 30% less weight means your pucker factor (aka "feel")is limited only by the ability to get the tires to hook to the road.

Based on VERY rough calcs, 400 hp in a 2500lb car would theoretically run 9.5's or better.

 

Without a 4 link and tire in the rear, a theoretical 9 sec car would simply go up in smoke in even the best of conditions. And that would be one scary ride in the rain with a solid axle and a limited slip rear. We got a 720 hp 12A guru here, but that engine is far from stock.

Time to close 'er again...lol