Thread: 1998 200SX SE-R Owner

I recently found an this car in excellent condition, seems fun... 212k miles, runs good, very clean, no leaks.

It's got high miles but I am a bit mixed on what would be the best for turbo charging this vehicle.
I'v read through the forums, noted some things that should be changed out before adding more power.

Since the engine is high miles and eventually will need to be rebuilt, would simply a fwd sr20det (with harness and ecu) swap be more cost effective than finding another low mile DE and then bolting on a turbo set up?

Welcome to the forum. I personally say if you had ideas of rebuilding then go that route. These engines run well if you maintain well. In that period you can plan a simple rebuild route with injectors, maybe t28, ecu. etc.. & have that security of a fresh rebuild and many miles to come

Yes, I'v been researching around. I saw a VQ35 swap for the B14 but after some more research I found that it would simply be better to buy an older 350z and work with that.

I think a solid rebuilt SR20DE with a T28 at around 8-10 psi, well tuned by someone who knows what they are doing would seem reasonable.

My goal really is to have fun with this car. Something like 200whp would be sufficient. I know I could probably just go out and buy a ls1 Z28 or a 350z for under $8 grand. But I really like this little car, it handles so well and feels comfortable.

Those power goals are easily attainable even with an allmotor VE, DE would be more work. But in sense of a Z28 vs 350z I say drive both. Handling I can easily assure you American cars are slouches in the handling aspect, specifically f-body (Non IRS) chassis would need a lot to out perform a 350z in the handling department. But as far as power I can see you getting more bang for your buck out of the z28. At the end of the day give both a test drive & go from there. & when I had my 200whp all motor b14 on tein coilovers, & a few bushings & hankook sports I can tell you I was gripping corners pretty well, I say the only downfall of that chassis is the rear beam & low aftermarket support

Don't bother with a VQ swap. Too much time money and customization involved. VE is a better motor overall anyway and for the most part drops right in.