To buy headers or not?

chuckie311

i gained 16whp and 3wtq with my z1 headers.. i already had full exhaust and HFC before i installed them..
Baseline no tune
291whp and 233wtq
after header install only no tune
307whp and 236wtq
tuned i made 310whp and 240wtq

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Tuned by (Seb@Specialty-Z)
2011 G37 Cam'd FBO 347whp 280wtq Corn Fed 4.08 Gears

Will 370Z

I’m new to this platform and I am interested in the horsepower per dollar topic. Of course the answer to “is it worth it” and “what should I do” is dependent on the owner’s goals with the car among several other things, but I’m curious about what modifications make the most improvement in power.

From what I’ve read, a good 3” long tube intake system and a tune are a must along with maybe a solid, free-flowing catback and mid pipes, but what would be the best next step? Headers can range from $800-$2,000 plus labor, but some have said horsepower gain is minimal so would it be best to invest in maybe E85 and/or ported intake manifolds etc?

I’m all about horsepower and having a good sounding car, but I also want to give some attention to suspension and handling. Don’t see FI in my future with this car, but I do want to add bolt ons and other things that would make this car even more enjoyable to drive