It’s pretty light, has a catchy modern image, but for many of us, it just lacks that V8 rumble under the hood. If the lack of affordable V8 alternatives for a 350Z is what’s been holding you back, one Nissan fanatic has yanked the stock V6 in favor of the ultra-popular GM LS engine platform and in this case, a turbocharged LS2. This Nissan isn’t just some trailer queen either, as Mark drove the car 120 miles to the track (while netting 33 MPG to boot) in a hot summer 103 degree day.

Checkout Mark’s video post over on the LS1GTO forum, or view the video of his Z taking on a Mustang at the track below –

The build, much like other street-friendly LS builds is relatively moderate with a single 88mm Precision turbo, truck exhaust manifolds and a long list of other factory parts, along with the usual supporting modifications in the fueling and tuning department. His initial tune was running a cool 7 PSI on pump gas, but Mark decided to see how far he could go in pump gas form, bumping the boost up to 9 lbs. Luckily, it all held together and he was able to nail off a heck of a clean pass – a 10.8 at 138 MPH.

Obviously this car will near closer to the 9’s with any weather more optimum than sweltering heat, but Mark is pretty happy given the circumstances. Getting ready to sneak up on the tune with 12 PSI and race fuel will be the next step in the saga of this LS2 Nissan. Better yet, Mark is still using the stock 350Z rear suspension and other stock components right down to the axles. Budget-minded, different and cool are just a few adjectives coming to mind when this ride is thought of, more or less, it’s one car that was just done right.