I still debate whether I like the pre-1994 or 1994+ models, i.e., without or with a grille.

  This view tells you I have the touring model with traction control.  I usually shut it off at the drag strip but it does keep me on the road come December in Indiana.

  Qs have always had nice cockpits.  Good for the drive home from work, good for the strip. 

  Part of the non-stock mods made to this particular car -- a K&N air filter.

  Also, not stock, a nitrous oxide boost system.  The dealership wanted nothing to do with this.  Fortunately I have a mechanic who likes speed.  This is a 20 lb. tank.  Its as long as the trunk is deep.  Typical cost for nitrous oxide is $3.75/lb.  That makes a fillup about $75.  So, how long does that last?   About 2.5 minutes.  So, when you hit the switch, this thing burns up fuel at over $30/minute.  Needless to say, I don't use it on the freeway just to pass trucks (well, hardly ever).

  This is where the nitrous enter the air intake system.  The solenoid valve here is controlled by the car's computer which has been modified to know what I want when I stomp on the gas.  In addition to opening the valve, it alters the gas/oxidant mix to accommodate the greater oxidant content of nitrous vs. air.  In fact, the computer sees to it that the power doesn't come in one blast ripping the transmission out of the car.  The system is designed to keep stuff together longer but in fact, it means that I could drive this thing with a mouse and a keyboard.  Put another way, I haven't tried cruising through the speed traps at the track on my cell phone yet, but it isn't inconceivable given how well-behaved this thing is.

  This is the control box I built.  It sits inside to my right.   Notice, the alarm type key switch.  I have three teenagers... hmmm...   why would I ever want to lock out the nitrous capabilities?  The black pushbutton causes the green light to come on momentarily telling me that the solenoid back at the tank is closed and hence no nitrous can flow.  A push of the red button opens that same solenoid and lights the yellow lamp telling me that the system is ready to pour forth the nitrous.  Then when the red rocker switch is flipped, the red lamp lights and stays lit saying that the computer is armed and waiting for me to pour on the gas.   When I hit the pedal, the computer sends a signal to the engine solenoid and lights a blue lamp hidden under the dash on the passenger side.  At the track this assures me that the system is working.

So, what's all this good for.  Well, I estimate the hp to be about 350-375.   Of course, the car does weigh 5200 lbs.  Even so, at the strip last time, this Q with its mods and 4.5 l engine beat a 2900 lb Mustang with a 5.0 l engine... not bad.   Here are some results from various runs. 

(to be added when I figure out a bit more about this web stuff.  Best time is 14.96 secs in the 1/4 mile.)

Want your own upgrade?  I used Steve Millen Engineering and Carmel Truck and Auto (Joe Yungwirth) for the modifications.

http://www.stillen.com/Stillen%20Folder/Stillen%20Docs/tableofcontents.html

This is Brina's Camaro.    No it isn't as fast as it looks.  It has the 'starter" 327 in it, a measly 210 hp.  But it has some potential if we ever decide to beef it up.