Ported upper manifold + long tube intakes worth it?
 

I know the title is subjective, but I’m looking to get a retune this summer as my exhaust set up has changed so I want to know how people feel about this combination. Is it worth the investment in terms of throttle response, sound and power gains? Is it a waste if not paired with ported TB’s and lower runners?

I’d really like an increase in induction noise and throttle response, so I’m curious to know if those who’ve made the leap are satisfied.

I don't have any feedback yet.... but I have Z1 Intakes and am installing the Z1 Ported Plenum with my FI exhaust in the next couple of weeks followed up immediately with an ECUTEK tune.

I won't have a baseline to share hard gains, but would be happy to share my subjective opinion afterwards if that means anything to you.

I too am looking for the same results you are inquiring about. I am at the shop right now having the Stillen Lightweight Pulley installed which should improve throttle response. The last time I owned the car I noticed significant improvements in that department after I installed NST Pulleys.

My 2 cents... first, we've got dozens if not hundreds of dynos showing gains from long tube intakes, and a fair number that show some kind of improvement from porting your upper manifold. We have much less data on ported TB's and lower runners (and what little data we do have on lower runners isn't all positive).

So if you're asking will you make power from these mods without TB's and ported lowers, yes you will. You may even notice a slight increase in air intake volume, but it won't be much. I could hardly hear my intakes except at WOT before I upgraded my exhaust, and I certainly can't hear it now.

It's your question about value that's the most subjective. I don't know - is it worth it for you? How much does the extra power matter? Personally, I loved what my upgrades did with a tune. Car drives WAY better than stock, and the tune greatly improved throttle response.

Having ran a naturally aspirated set up on my last Z I could tell you dollar for dollar it is not worth it. You will see gains but,they will be minimal though. Running naturally aspirated gets expensive quick and the money to power ratio is not very good. I would definitely do a retune on your Z I would always recommend that. Start saving for forced induction if you can.