Although not considered the strongest of motors in its stock form, Opel’s Z16LER engine has huge tuning potential when built with upgraded pistons and connecting rods. This car also had an IHI VF34 based turbo kit installed. Paired with upgraded injectors to handle the extra power, also a larger MAF sensor housing, external wastegate actuator that is controlled by the car’s ECU, it packs a very powerful punch. We had some reservations with regards to using an open blowoff valve rather than a recirculating one, since this management system relies on the Mass airflow sensor’s readings to make it work properly. When the blowoff vents to the atmosphere the system loses measured air mass, so it can impact performance by momentarily richening the air-fuel mixture.
The engine’s computer fully controls fuelling, boost and ignition as if it was stock. According to the owner’s request it was tuned up to 1.4bar of boost. So that it would run happy on the stock clutch. The engine’s rev limiter remained below 7400rpm.
Upgrade specifications
- 98RON fuel
- Upgraded pistons and connecting rods
- IHI VF34 turbo kit
- Tubular manifold
- Upgraded full exhaust
- Upgraded cold air intake kit with big maf sensor housing
- Upgraded injectors
- Upgraded fuel pump
- Upgraded blowoff valve
- ECU-controlled external wastegate actuator
- Noliftshift added on
Performance results
- Maximum engine power: 336.4 hp
- Maximum engine torque: 285.4 ft*lbs
