Chris Forsberg’s Twin-Turbo Upgrade: Smaller Frame, Bigger Gains with G-Series II

Moving to a smaller turbocharger frame size might sound counterintuitive in a professional drift car. In Chris Forsberg’s case, it delivered a clear competitive advantage.

His Formula Drift Nissan Z transitioned from twin Garrett G30-660 turbochargers to twin Garrett G-Series II G25 turbochargers. The goal was not to reduce peak power, but to improve response, control, and consistency during competition.

In drifting, the ability to recover boost quickly and deliver precise throttle control is more valuable than maximum peak output. This change reflects a shift toward performance characteristics that directly impact results on track.

Chris Forsberg’s Nissan Z Formula Drift car during competition.

The updated setup delivers approximately 940 wheel horsepower while significantly improving response. This makes the smaller frame turbocharger a stronger choice for the demands of Formula Drift competition.

Vehicle and Engine Setup

The Boost Logic built VR38DETT engine powering Forsberg’s Formula Drift Nissan Z.

Platform / Chassis

• Nissan Z Formula Drift competition car based on the 2023 Nissan Z

Engine

• Boost Logic built Nissan VR38DETT
• 3.8L billet crank based setup with upgraded fueling and valvetrain
• Previous turbo setup: twin Garrett G30-660 54mm
• Current turbo setup: twin Garrett G-Series II G25-700 54mm

The Key Change: G30-660 to G-Series II G25-585

Moving from a G30-660 frame turbocharger to a G25-585 frame turbocharger typically suggests a tradeoff in top-end performance. However, advancements in compressor aerodynamics and efficiency allow the G-Series II platform to deliver improved response without sacrificing usable power.

The updated configuration improves low-end response and boost recovery, which are critical in a drifting environment where the car is constantly transitioning between throttle inputs.

Garrett G-Series II G25 turbocharger featuring advanced compressor and turbine design.

Bottom Line

Chris Forsberg’s turbocharger strategy highlights how modern turbo technology allows for smarter performance decisions. Instead of selecting a larger frame for peak numbers, the focus shifts to response, control, and consistency.

In Formula Drift, those characteristics define competitive performance. In this case, going smaller delivered a faster, more controllable, and more effective setup.