Weight Savings - Heffner (TT) Style


nota4re

GT Owner
Mark IV Lifetime
Le Mans 2010 Supporter
Feb 15, 2006
4,366
We are in the midst of another TT conversion and a few of you had previously asked us some weight comparisons. Consider our measurements to be somewhat accurate - within ~1lb on components.

OEM CAT = 13.5 lbs
OEM Iron manifold = 12.5 lbs

Heffner SS Header & Turbo Flange = 13 lbs
Garett Turbo = 15 lbs

So, we have OEM at a 2 lb savings per side (26 vs 28) or 4 lbs compared to the TT.

Now, for the TT add for 2 wastegates, 2 bypass valves, bling-cool plumbing + SS hoses, etc.... I would estimate all at ~12 lbs. Finally, add for the billett plenum at 7 lbs.

Accounting for all of the above, the TT is going to add 4 + 12 + 7 = 23 lbs.

But.... the TT sheds the OEM SC which weighs in at 43.5 lbs.

In summary, the TT is going to give you;

A) ~20 lbs weight savings over OEM (even more for those running the heavier Whipple)
B) ~ +400 HP at the wheels
C) Less crank/pulley stress (blower pulley no longer in equation)

That's an apples to apples comparison. Most owners are likely going to ditch the OEM (55lb) muffler in favor of a Heffner exhaust (15 lbs) or similar. All in all, 60 lbs of weight savings and 400 more RWHP.... not such a bad trade-off!
 
Apples to apples...your weight comparison is what it is; an accurate comparison of parts removed, parts added. It is true the twin turbo gains 400rwhp and reduces weight but at the cost of emission compliance in California so the apples to apples comparison becomes a bit strained for me. For those of you with less stringent emission testing it is great but for me it's a non starter and isn't comparable to a CARB legal set-up.
 
Apples to apples...your weight comparison is what it is; an accurate comparison of parts removed, parts added. It is true the twin turbo gains 400rwhp and reduces weight but at the cost of emission compliance in California so the apples to apples comparison becomes a bit strained for me. For those of you with less stringent emission testing it is great but for me it's a non starter and isn't comparable to a CARB legal set-up.

Agreed; furthermore as it has been shared before, horsepower is only one of the items to be considered; the manner in which the gals generate the power hence the driving experience is completely different when one compares a supercharged versus a turbo gal.

In the end this is IMO the most subjective and frankly most important consideration.

Takes care

Shadowman
 
Agreed; furthermore as it has been shared before, horsepower is only one of the items to be considered; the manner in which the gals generate the power hence the driving experience is completely different when one compares a supercharged versus a turbo gal.

In the end this is IMO the most subjective and frankly most important consideration.

Takes care

Shadowman

IMO, it is the difference is where, when and how you want the gas pedal movements to be connected to the torque generated at the rear wheels. That said, if top end speed and performance in the mile are your 1st and foremost concern, nothing tops the TT!
 
For those of you with less stringent emission testing it is great but for me it's a non starter and isn't comparable to a CARB legal set-up.

Yes, a very good point. The pulley upgrades and the CARB approved Whipple are both much easier decisions in California.

the manner in which the gals generate the power hence the driving experience is completely different when one compares a supercharged versus a turbo gal.

Another excellent point. The driving experience IS different. The SC is "here and now" with torque out the gazoo whenever you want it whereas the TT starts slower and just continues to build until it's time to change gears. Hard to describe in words and probably needs to be felt/experienced for one to decide personal preference.

That said, if top end speed and performance in the mile are your 1st and foremost concern, nothing tops the TT!

Agreed that this is one of the domains of the TT. There are both other strengths and other weaknesses when compared to SC.