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In response to many questions about how my setup compares with a turbo or the new BRP, I have put these numbers together.
I am running a Vortech supercharger and have done some modifications including headwork and exhaust. The bottom end is stock. This dyno was done with 13.4 lbs boost at 9300rpm.
There is considerable variation between dynos, conditions, and engines and no conclusions should be drawn from these numbers.
The linear increase of the centrifical superchargers will give nice hp and torque numbers on the top end where the power is needed. Upping the boost will give more torque and hp in the middle range. The linear increase of torque acts like traction control.
Centrifical superchargers can be spun faster to give turbo like torque midrange and
then even more torque up top.
Now, the reality is superchargers like this take about 70 hp to run at top end and the turbo doesn't so turbos should be able to obtain superior numbers with proper fitment.
I am a centrifugal guy like you so I would like for the above to be true, but it seems a little slanted in our favor
Perhaps if the other kits were generating the same amount of boost instead of about half, it would be a fair comparison.
For example, start with the same type of dyno machines, same engine management, engine displacement, compression ratio, and type of fuel.
1) The BRP kit claims to make 315 not 280 as stated by SlimJim.
2) Use the same displacments engines for all tests...some of these were F20 vs F22.
3) Use the LoveFab GT1 kit vs. their log kit.
4) And try and get as close to the same amount of boost as possible so the max numbers are optimistic as possible for ALL set ups.
5) Use similar exhausts for all- something like ~3" testpipe or header back.
While direct comparisons between all of the forced induction options are almost impossible, we can get a very reasonable idea from all of this information.
There are so many pros and cons to each system. They are all wonderful ways to enhance your driving experience.
If money was of no concern, I would have to argue that a well tuned and properly sized turbo system is the best option. By far. It's the most efficient, the most controllable, and has the highest potential for power gain.
But...money is a concern, and turbos just aren't as user friendly as one of the already well-designed supercharger kits.
Assuming similar boost levels, the three supercharger kits are a very interesting comparison I think. The two centrifugals seriously are the easiest way to make power. Simple bolt-ons. Nothing to it. No tuning is necessary (but I'd still get it checked). The BRP is almost a halfway point between the centrifugal kits and a full blown turbo system. It provides a lot more power over the entire rev range (particularly down low) than the other two supercharger kits. No one can argue with this. It also costs more and requires a full tune. It can't provide the efficiency of a turbo system, nor the potential for power gains. But at similar medium boost levels, the BRP kit and a turbo kit will provide very similar power and engine characteristics.
Which kit is the best? Impossible question to answer. If I had to organize them in a Stage 1, 2, and 3 type order...there is no question it would be:
Of course, with a little love, the Comptech/Vortech offerings can be transformed to give you Stage 2-like results. You could probably even get them to a Stage 3 level if you had the money. The BRP is limited at Stage 2. It is already at its maximum potential due to the design of the roots blower. Lovefab???? Stage 3 and up...the sky is the limit.
No turbo envy if you do it right
