Power Gains from the Aftermarket Turbonetics Tt500 Turbo on the Nissan Gt-r: Before and After Results

Introduction: Unlocking the Nissan GT-R’s True Potential

The Nissan GT-R has long been celebrated as a benchmark of Japanese engineering, blending all-wheel-drive traction with a twin-turbo V6 that delivers breathtaking performance straight from the factory. Yet for many enthusiasts, the stock 3.8-liter VR38DETT is only the starting point. Upgrading the turbochargers remains one of the most effective ways to liberate hidden horsepower. Among the aftermarket options, the Turbonetics TT500 turbo kit has gained a strong reputation for offering substantial, reliable power gains. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the before-and-after results when fitting the Turbonetics TT500 turbo to the Nissan GT-R, covering installation, tuning, driving dynamics, and key considerations for prospective buyers.

What Makes the Turbonetics TT500 Turbo Special?

The Turbonetics TT500 is not a single turbo but a twin-turbo kit designed specifically for the GT-R. It replaces the factory IHI turbos with larger, more efficient units capable of supporting significantly higher boost levels while maintaining spool characteristics suitable for street and track use. Key features include:

Billet compressor wheels for improved airflow and reduced inertia
Journal or ball bearing center sections (depending on configuration) for durability and quick response
High-flow turbine housings that reduce backpressure
CNC-machined flanges and precision castings for a direct bolt-on fit

The TT500 designation indicates the kit is capable of supporting approximately 500 wheel horsepower gains over stock – meaning a properly tuned GT-R can exceed 1,000 wheel horsepower. However, most owners target a more conservative 600–700 wheel horsepower for daily drivability and engine longevity. Turbonetics has engineered the TT500 to work with the factory engine management system when paired with a proper tune, though many owners opt for standalone ECUs or piggyback controllers. Official Turbonetics website provides detailed product specs and support.

Before Installation: Stock GT-R Performance Baseline

Factory Powertrain and Output

The stock Nissan GT-R (R35) from model years 2009–2023 produces approximately 480–565 horsepower at the crank depending on the year and trim. The twin-turbo 3.8-liter V6 makes peak torque of around 430–470 lb-ft. At the wheels, these figures translate to roughly 420–500 whp and 410–450 wtq on a typical dynojet. The factory boost pressure is around 10–12 psi, tapering off at high RPM.

Stock Performance Metrics (Typical R35 GT-R before 2017)

Crank Power: 480–545 hp
Wheel Power: ~420–480 whp (on 93 octane)
Peak Torque (crank): 430–460 lb-ft
0–60 mph: 3.5 seconds (with LC) – higher with grip limitations
1/4-mile: ~11.6–12.0 seconds @ 120 mph

Why Upgrade? Limitations of Stock Turbos

Factory turbos hit their efficiency ceiling around 450–500 whp on pump gas. Beyond that, they generate excessive heat and require high boost levels that push them beyond their surge line. The Tt500 turbos are designed to flow more air at the same or lower boost, reducing intake temperatures and providing a more linear power curve.

Installation Process of the Turbonetics TT500 Turbo

Preparation and Parts Required

Installing the TT500 kit is a significant job that should be undertaken by an experienced shop familiar with GT-Rs. The kit includes the turbos, new inlet and outlet piping, intake pipes, oil and coolant lines, gaskets, and hardware. Additional supporting parts are strongly recommended:

Larger intercoolers or upgraded cores
High-flow downpipes and exhaust system
Fuel system upgrades – injectors (e.g., 1,000–1,300 cc), high-pressure fuel pump, and possibly a return-style fuel system
Engine management tuning – Cobb Accessport, EcuTek, or standalone like MoTeC or Syvecs
Upgraded intake and charge piping

Step-by-Step Installation Highlights

Disassembly: Remove the front bumper, intercooler, radiator, and air intake system. Drain coolant and oil. Detach exhaust and downpipes. Remove the stock turbos from the engine bay – this requires significant disassembly but is straightforward on a lift.
Installation of new turbos: Bolt on the TT500 units using new gaskets. Connect oil feed and drain lines, coolant lines. Route new intake pipes to the MAF sensors and air filters.
Intercooler and plumbing: Fit upgraded intercoolers (often two smaller cores or one large front-mount). Connect charge piping to the throttle bodies.
Fuel system upgrades: Install larger injectors, possibly a new fuel rail, and high-pressure fuel pump assembly. Wiring harness modifications may be required for standalone ECUs.
Tuning: After mechanical work is complete, the car is loaded onto a dyno. A professional tuner dials in fuel, ignition timing, and boost curves. The TT500 turbos typically run 14–20 psi on pump gas and 22–28 psi on race gas or E85.
Testing: Check for oil or coolant leaks, boost leaks, and data-log the car for safety. Perform road tuning to finalize drivability.

Total installation time by a professional shop is typically 30–50 hours. DIY is possible but not recommended without extensive mechanical experience. GT-R Heritage offers parts and installation guidance for those considering the upgrade.

After Installation: Measured Performance Gains

Dyno Numbers and Real-World Data

Before-and-after dyno pulls on a Mustang or Dynojet reveal the true impact. A properly tuned TT500-equipped GT-R on 93 octane pump gas typically lays down:

Wheel Power: 580–620 whp
Wheel Torque: 520–560 wtq

On E85 or race gas, numbers climb to 680–750 whp and 600–650 wtq depending on boost (20–22 psi). These are conservative tunes that keep the engine reliable. Aggressive setups can push beyond 800 whp but require further internal modifications (pistons, rods, head studs).

Comparison Table: Stock vs TT500 Upgrade

Metric	Stock (2012 GT-R)	Turbonetics TT500 (93 octane)	TT500 (E85 Race Tune)
Wheel Horsepower	440 whp	600 whp	720 whp
Wheel Torque	430 wtq	540 wtq	630 wtq
Boost Pressure	10 psi	16 psi	22 psi
0–60 mph	3.5 s	2.8–3.0 s	2.5–2.7 s
1/4-Mile Trap Speed	120–123 mph	134–138 mph	145–150 mph

Power Gains Analysis

The delta between stock and TT500 on pump gas is impressive: approximately +160 whp and +110 wtq. On E85, the gains exceed +280 whp and +200 wtq. These increases are not just peak numbers; the powerband shifts upward. The TT500 turbos spool slightly later than stock – full boost arrives around 3,800–4,200 RPM versus 3,200–3,500 RPM for factory turbos. However, the power holds strong to redline (7,000+ RPM), unlike stock turbos that fall off after 6,000 RPM.

Driving Experience and Character Changes

Throttle Response and Spool Characteristics

Drivers note that the TT500 turbos feel larger but still spool quickly for their size. Below 3,500 RPM, the car behaves like stock with mild low-end torque. Once boost builds, the acceleration is extremely aggressive – a linear surge rather than a violent hit. This makes the car more predictable on corner exits. The enhanced mid-range power (4,000–6,000 RPM) transforms highway passing ability.

Sound and Induction Noise

With larger compressors and high-flow intakes, the TT500 kit produces a distinct turbine whistle and louder blow-off valve sounds (if equipped with atmospheric BOVs). The exhaust note deepens at full boost. Some owners find the increased induction noise exhilarating, while others may consider it a bit loud for daily driving.

Track Performance

On a circuit, the added horsepower requires careful throttle modulation, especially in corners. The all-wheel-drive system helps plant the power, but the rear tires may spin more under heavy acceleration out of slow corners. Brake upgrades and better cooling are strongly recommended alongside the turbo kit. Many TT500 owners report shaving 2–3 seconds per lap at a typical road course compared to stock.

Supporting Modifications and Reliability Considerations

Fuel System Must-Keeps

The stock fuel system cannot supply enough volume above 600 whp. Installations with the TT500 kit should include:

Injectors: 1,300–2,000 cc/min
Dual fuel pumps or a single high-flow in-tank pump (e.g., Walbro 525)
Fuel pressure regulator (if going return-style)
Ethanol content sensor for E85 flex-fuel tuning

Engine Internals

The VR38DETT can handle up to about 700–750 whp on the stock bottom end with a conservative tune and proper maintenance. Beyond that, forged pistons and rods become necessary. The TT500 kit is often used in builds targeting 700–800 whp, which is near the limit of the factory short block. Upgrading head studs is wise to prevent head lift under high boost.

Cooling and Heat Management

Increased power generates more heat. Upgraded radiator, oil cooler, and transmission cooler are highly recommended. Many TT500 owners install a larger front-mount intercooler or dual side-mounts to keep intake temperatures low. During sustained track sessions, an auxiliary engine oil cooler is a must.

Cost Analysis and Value for Money

Initial Investment

The Turbonetics TT500 turbo kit itself costs approximately $5,500–$7,000 depending on options (ball bearing vs journal bearing, wastegate actuation style). Installation labor adds $3,000–$5,000. Supporting mods (fuel system, exhaust, intercoolers, tuning) can easily bring the total to $12,000–$18,000. For those aiming at 700+ whp, the total build can exceed $20,000.

Comparative Options

Other popular turbo kits for the GT-R include offerings from AMS Performance (Alpha series), Shearer V2, and ETS (Extreme Turbo Systems). The TT500 is considered mid-range in price and performance – not as extreme as AMS Alpha 10 (1,000+ whp) but more robust than basic bolt-on turbos like BorgWarner EFR upgrades. AMS Performance offers a comparison chart for potential customers.

Pros and Cons of the Turbonetics TT500 Upgrade

Strong Points

Significant power gains without internal engine work (up to 700 whp)
Bolt-on installation, no custom fabrication required
Reliable when tuned properly and with supporting mods
Greater efficiency than stock turbos – lower IATs and less heat soak
Proven in both street and track applications

Potential Drawbacks

Spool is slightly later than stock turbos – less low-end torque below 3,500 RPM
Requires substantial supporting modifications – adds cost and complexity
Can exceed the limitations of the stock transmission (GR6) if pushed hard; clutch packs may slip above 650–700 whp
Not CARB compliant – street legality may vary by state
Increased engine bay heat may require upgraded cooling

Real-World Owner Feedback and Testimonials

Forums such as GT-R Life are filled with TT500 owners sharing their experiences. Common consensus: the kit delivers on its promises. Owner “BoostyMcBoost” reported running a 10.4-second quarter-mile on pump gas with no internal engine mods, only fuel upgrades and a tune. Another owner noted that after 15,000 miles of mixed driving, the turbos remained trouble-free. However, some reported boost creep issues on early revisions, which Turbonetics addressed with updated wastegate ports.

FAQs About the Turbonetics TT500 Turbo for Nissan GT-R

Does the TT500 require upgrading the transmission?

Not strictly, but the stock GR6 dual-clutch transmission starts to slip above 650–700 whp. If you plan to drag race or launch aggressively, a transmission upgrade (clutch packs, billet steel fork, etc.) is recommended. For street use under 650 whp, the stock transmission holds up well with proper maintenance.

Can I run the TT500 with stock intercoolers?

Technically yes for low boost (14–16 psi), but intake temperatures will climb quickly. Upgraded intercoolers are highly recommended to maximize power and reduce knock risk.

What octane fuel is required?

Pump 93 octane is the minimum. For optimal results, E85 (flex fuel) or race gas 100+ octane is used. The TT500 supports higher boost levels with race fuel.

How much power can I expect with stock exhaust?

Restrictive exhaust significantly limits gains. You will see ~500–550 whp with stock downpipes and catback. Upgrading to 3-inch downpipes and a free-flowing exhaust is essential for unlocking the full TT500 potential.

Final Verdict: Is the Turbonetics TT500 Worth It?

For the Nissan GT-R enthusiast seeking a large power bump without building the engine, the Turbonetics TT500 turbo kit is a compelling option. It provides a substantial increase in horsepower and torque, transforming the driving experience from quick to outright savage. The before-and-after results speak for themselves: gains of 160–280 whp depending on fuel, improved trap speeds, and a more exhilarating driving character. While the upfront cost and required supporting modifications are not insignificant, the TT500 represents a well-engineered, proven path to high horsepower. With proper installation and tuning, it can serve as the foundation for a reliable, high-powered daily driver or a weekend track weapon.