OK so I want my 240z to be a regular driver; as long as its not over 90 degrees or storming I want to drive the Z. So I want reliability and longevity out of the motor as well as keeping decent mileage while cruising on the freeway. My goal is 200-220 HP at the crank. So should I build up a L28 with some head work, more compression, cam, carbs, etc. Or just swap in a turbo motor and run it at a sane 10psi? With a 5 speed I would like to get 25 MPG while doing long road trips. I know its not a Honda but I would like better mileage than my truck for when visiting family 300+ miles away.

 

Welcome to ZDriver!

Before I say anything, how much $$$ do you have to spend?

Also, remember that as hp increases, mpg's usually decrease... you need more fuel to make more power, more fuel = lower mpg.

 

Honestly I really dont know how much a built L28 would cost. Ive always played with Chevy and Ford V8's. Now I want to venture into I6's and maybe some boost. I would like to keep $$$ down. Nothing too exotic, I do the work myself. I found a running turbo 280z with a beat up body for $1200. But its an auto, would have to find a 5 speed tranny. Hypothetically if you were to tell me I could swap in a good turbo motor into my car and up the boost a bit for $2000 and building up a L28 would take $3000-$4000 I would probably go with the turbo.