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Sport Compact Clutch Specialists
Nissan 350Z, 370Z & Z Clutch Kits
From stock daily drivers to 1,000+ HP drift builds, South Bend Clutch offers performance clutch solutions for every Z-car. Our clutches are engineered to handle VQ and VR power reliably.
24+
Years in Business
1,000+
HP Capacity Available
100%
Made in USA
12/12K
Warranty Coverage
Performance Clutches for Nissan Z-Cars
The Nissan Z has been an icon of Japanese sports car performance since 1969. Today's Z-cars carry on that legacy with powerful VQ and VR engines that respond excellently to modification.
Whether you're tracking a stock 350Z or building a 1,000 HP drift machine, the factory clutch becomes a limitation as power increases. South Bend Clutch offers complete solutions from stock-replacement to full competition.
- Complete coverage for 350Z, 370Z, and new Z
- Clutches rated from 300 to 1,000+ HP
- 250mm applications
- Drift and track proven
- Complete kits with all hardware
- Built for VQ/VR torque
Z33
Nissan 350Z (2003-2008)
The Z Returns
After a hiatus, Nissan revived the Z-car with the 350Z. The VQ35DE engine produced 287-306 HP depending on year, with the rev-up models (HR) offering improved top-end power.
The 350Z established itself as an excellent platform for modification. Superchargers and turbo kits are popular, pushing power well past 400 HP. The VQ35 responds well to boost while maintaining reliability.
Track Capable
The 350Z's balanced chassis makes it a favorite for drifting and road course work. The manual transmission offers excellent engagement, though the clutch becomes a limitation as power increases.
350Z Specifications
- Engine VQ35DE/HR
- HP 287-306
- Weight 3,200 lbs
- Trans 6MT
- Clutch Size 250mm
Z34
Nissan 370Z (2009-2020)
More Displacement, More Power
The 370Z gained the VQ37VHR engine with 332-350 HP. The SynchroRev Match feature made heel-toe downshifts automatic, though purists could disable it.
The Nismo 370Z (350 HP) added performance upgrades from the factory. Forced induction kits push these engines past 500 HP while maintaining the Z's character.
Long Production Run
The 370Z remained largely unchanged for over a decade, building a strong aftermarket support community. Parts and tuning options are readily available.
370Z Specifications
- Engine VQ37VHR
- HP 332-350
- Weight 3,300 lbs
- Trans 6MT
- Clutch Size 250mm
Z35
Nissan Z (400Z) (2023+)
Twin Turbo Power
The new Z brings twin-turbo VR30DDTT power to the platform with 400 HP from the factory. This engine, shared with the Infiniti Q60, responds excellently to tuning.
Early modified cars are already pushing past 500 HP with bolt-ons and tuning. The platform promises to be one of the most capable Z-cars ever built.
New Z Specifications
- Engine VR30DDTT
- HP 400
- Weight 3,500 lbs
- Trans 6MT
- Clutch Size 250mm
Z-Car Manual Transmissions
The CD009 6-speed is a proven performer
CD009/Z1 6-Speed
2003-Present
The Nissan 6-speed manual offers solid reliability and decent shift feel. These transmissions handle impressive power levels with proper clutch selection.
- Clutch Size 250mm
- Torque Rating 400+ lb-ft
- Max HP (w/ SBC) 700+ HP
- Best For All Z builds
- Note CD009 popular for swaps
Z-Car Clutch Application Guide
Find the right clutch for your Z based on model, engine, and power level
| Year Range | Vehicle | Engine | Transmission | Power Level | Recommended Clutch |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2003-2006 | Nissan 350Z | VQ35DE | 6MT | Stock-350 HP | Stage 2 Daily |
| 2007-2008 | Nissan 350Z HR | VQ35HR | 6MT | Stock-400 HP | Stage 2 Endurance |
| 2003-2008 | Nissan 350Z | VQ35 Turbo/SC | 6MT | 400-600 HP | Stage 3 / Dual Disc |
| 2009-2020 | Nissan 370Z | VQ37VHR | 6MT | Stock-400 HP | Stage 2 Endurance |
| 2009-2020 | Nissan 370Z | VQ37 Turbo/SC | 6MT | 400-650 HP | Stage 3 / Dual Disc |
| 2023+ | Nissan Z | VR30DDTT | 6MT | Stock-500 HP | Stage 3 |
Which Clutch Is Right for Your Z?
Match your clutch to your power level and intended use
Daily Driver
Stage 2 Clutch
Stock to 400 HP
Perfect for naturally-aspirated and lightly modified Z cars. Smooth engagement with increased torque capacity.
- Smooth daily-driver engagement
- Organic friction material
- Handles bolt-ons
- Stock flywheel compatible
- Long service life
- Complete kit
Performance
Stage 3 / Dual Disc
350 to 650 HP
For supercharged and turbocharged Z builds. Handles the torque demands of boosted VQ power.
- Ceramic or hybrid friction
- Single or dual disc
- Excellent heat capacity
- Handles boost
- Billet flywheel available
- Street drivable
Competition
Triple Disc Racing
600 to 1,000+ HP
Maximum capacity for dedicated drift and drag Z builds. No-slip guarantee at extreme power levels.
- Ultimate holding power
- Triple friction surfaces
- Full ceramic
- SFI certified
- Drift/drag proven
- Custom options available
Why Z Owners Choose South Bend
Trusted by enthusiasts and racers
VQ/VR Experts
We've developed clutches for Nissan's performance engines across multiple generations. We understand the demands of Z-car performance.
Made in USA
Every South Bend Clutch is manufactured in Fort Wayne, Indiana with the highest quality materials.
Drift Ready
Z cars are drift favorites. Our clutches handle the extreme abuse of competitive drifting.
Complete Kits
Every kit includes clutch, pressure plate, bearings, and alignment tool. Multi-disc kits include flywheel.
Z-Car Clutch FAQs
Common questions about Z clutches
What clutch for a supercharged 350Z?
For supercharged VQ35 builds:
- 350-450 HP: Stage 2 Endurance handles this reliably
- 450-550 HP: Stage 3 for headroom
- 550+ HP: Dual Disc for maximum reliability
Superchargers produce consistent boost that's easier on clutches than turbos, but the stock clutch is marginal beyond 400 HP.
Are your clutches good for drifting?
Absolutely! Drifting requires specific clutch characteristics:
- Aggressive engagement for clutch kicks
- Heat resistance for repeated abuse
- Durability to handle side-loading
Our Stage 3 and multi-disc clutches are popular in the drift community. Many competitive drift cars run South Bend clutches.
New Z (400Z) clutch recommendations?
The new VR30DDTT-powered Z produces 400 HP from the factory:
- Stock power: Stage 2 Endurance for daily driving
- Stage 1 tune (450-500 HP): Stage 3 recommended
- Aggressive tune/mods: Dual Disc for future mods
The twin-turbo engine responds well to tuning. Plan your clutch for your target power level.
Should I use a lightweight flywheel?
Flywheel choice depends on your priorities:
- Daily driving: Stock weight for smooth engagement
- Track/drift: Lightweight for faster revs and response
- Competition: Lightweight is almost universal
The VQ's strong mid-range torque means lightweight flywheels don't hurt driveability as much as on smaller engines.
Ready to Upgrade Your Z?
Find the perfect clutch or talk to our Z-car experts.
Questions? Email us at sales@southbendclutch.com