What Can Be Removed For Better Performance?

[garygbnj]

Looking to buy a 95 zx turbo. Just met a NJ Z Car Club owner (92? zx turbo). He told me there were a few components that could be remover for better performance and mileage. He did not go into details other than check with the clubs. Any info would be appreciated.

[A Paratroopers 300zx]

Well, there are a few things that can be deleted for ease of maintenance, weight reduction, and less clutter in the engine bay, but as for making more power and getting better mileage... the EGR system and cats can be deleted for more power, but less fuel efficiency. Usually, when you increase power, you decrease fuel economy. Other things that can be deleted are: Carbon canister, PRVR solenoid, AC, Power steering, Cruise control, Throttle body water bypass, AIV system, Secondary clutch bleeder line, HICAS system, and I'm sure there are a few more. Then, you can look into re-locations if you really want to go crazy.

** DISCLAIMER **
Performing some of these deletes may void safety and emissions laws and regulations, please check your local laws and be informed before completing any of the things mentioned herein.

[DCaff300ZX]

Good call with the disclaimer, as most deletes will cause you issues with emissions unless you keep the OEM stuff to re install before testing.
Honestly you can make plenty of power with a emissions-compliant exhaust system such as mine with only a HKS catback and tuning geared towards driveability and not brute HP, it flows fine and sounds great.
Many of the other deletes mentioned are best for maintenance purposes (ease of return work) and also reduction of weight, with only the exhaust deletes actually affecting power other than perhaps making the car work less hard to do the work you ask of it.
Mods is where the power is at, changing the airflow and fuel delivery from OEM levels to allow the engine to do more of what it is capable of doing...but then you also need to upgrade the other controls (brakes, suspension, etc.) to allow for the increased power and momentum you will create.

[garygbnj]

Thanks

If I can find the right car I think I will leave it alone.

[DCaff300ZX]

Sounds good, but keep in mind this is an old car that has a few issues to deal with due to age- so although we all say that when we buy or Z32 in time you will get into it to repair some common issues and that's when the "fun" starts, as the aftermarket has become competitive with OEM pricing (or better!) in many areas which is why many/most of us end up modifying the car in some way(s) regardless of intent.

Try to get a '94 or '95 for least number of potential issues to deal with (both years have all factory upgrades) but the '96 has less power and different tuning, and the rest will have injector issues and electrical connector issues at the least.
Honestly your best bet is to find an enthusiast selling their car who has done all of the myriad of little this's and that's to it for least worry during ownership, otherwise be ready to work on it some and to go ahead and make it your own!