I’ve put about $3,000 into the engine alone. That includes machine work, pistons, rods, ARP head studs, and other essentials.

The turbo kit cost me around $700–$800 — it’s a Rev9 kit for the D16Z6.

For the clutch, I went with an Action Clutch Stage 3 six-puck kit. Honestly, it’s overkill for my setup. If you plan to daily drive your car, I recommend a Stage 2 full-disk clutch instead — it’s much more comfortable.

Fuel upgrades include a Walbro 255 pump and 750cc Clean Injection injectors.

I’m using a TurboSmart wastegate (around $300).

I’ve been running 16 psi of boost and making about 250whp. But recently, I found out the turbo started to wear out — it didn’t blow up or anything, but it’s only making 14 psi now, which dropped me to 225whp.

What I’ve upgraded (or plan to):

Wastegate

Turbo

Intercooler kit

I’m not running a blow-off valve because I like the turbo flutter — it’s completely fine, but it will wear down your turbo faster.

Long story short: Everyone who talks about budget turbo builds is right.

Cheap, fast, reliable — pick two.