Restlessly poised at the top of the NISMO crop is the R-tune Nissan 350Z. Like the S-tune version, the R-tune starts with an exemplary base vehicle and adds model-specific components built for one reason – increasing performance. Our R-tune Z featured the following NISMO parts:

• Billet camshafts ($1,600)
• Cold air intake system ($349)
• Headers ($1,269)
• Lightweight flywheel ($600)
• Single disc clutch and clutch cover ($280 and $330)
• Limited-slip differential ($1,050)
• Brake pads (fronts are $175 with Brembo package and $150 without; rears are $150 with Brembo package and $125 without)
• Power steering oil cooler kit ($150)
• Shift knob ($65-140)
• S-tune suspension with stabilizer bars ($2,300)
• Aero body kit with front and rear spoilers and side sills ($390 for rear spoiler; $350 for front chin spoiler; $490 for pair of side sills)
• Silver five-spoke alloy wheels measuring 18 inches by 8.5 inches in front and 18 inches by 9.5 inches in the rear and priced at $575 each (price does not include P245/40R18 front and 275/40R18 rear BF Goodrich KD tires)
• S-tune stainless steel cat-back exhaust system ($1,100)
• NISMO graphics ($175)

Opt for all these tuner parts from your NISMO-authorized dealer, and you’ll be hit for about $13,000, not including the tires and installation costs. Horsepower ends up at about 300, 13 more than the standard Z’s 287 and equal to the 2005 Anniversary Edition, which has a starting price of $36,780 (including a $580 destination charge). But the R-tune Z virtually eliminates body roll and offers razor-sharp steering and a feeling of unrestrained power. Of course the ride is rough, but this puppy isn’t built for the street. So, as the saying goes, if you can’t stand the heat, stay off the track.