They did exactly what was asked. A track focused car. Most modern race cars are paddle shift. It’s quickest that way. They don’t want quickest manual they want what’s quickest for the chasis overall.
Modern safety/crash regulations will do that to you. It’s the same platform so in order to hit those targets and improve the structure that means more weight. That said I’ve yet to see a review of any of the Z where the person complained it felt heavy.
@lw1878 yes, i felt it on the track with 86s, (small track) but in the curves they braked later and turned faster, back on the straight id get it all back tho lol
@@claudemartin7785, wait, are you speaking about a 370Z or a G37. There's no way any R35 GTR is 3500lbs unless it has been stripped and prepped for racing (new wiring, RWD conversion, lighter sequential, etc.)
I’m glad to hear the Nismo is a great car. It sounds like the chassis is very competent and fun to drive. I’m mixed about the lack of a manual. Like you I will always prefer a manual but being labeled as a track car, paddles will consistently be faster and eliminate driver errors. I grew up in a Z car home before graduating to Porsche’s with my earliest memories being my dad taking me to daycare in his 280z and will always remember when he got an early 350z which I eventually purchased from him. I’m very glad to see Nissan is doing a great job with the current Z.
I don’t understand why you wouldn’t replicate this in the aftermarket. We’re talking about some chassis bracing/sealer/welding, stiffer bushings, big brakes, wider wheels, a body kit, and a tune. That’s all doable by a competent shop.
I get it. It's a track car. Track cars are about lap times. Sports cars are about fun and engagement. Get the standard Z for canyon stuff, and the Nismo if you're going to be doing track work. I don't necessarily AGREE with it, but I understand focused products. The manual from the standard model is exactly the same as the 370z, so it's not like it would cost them any more in development costs. Maybe they're planning on a hardcore "Black" edition, or will introduce the manual at a later date? We know from the drift folks that the gearbox can hold the power.
My 07 Nismo 350z only came in a manual. 1st gen Nismo 370z's were manual only. It was only in 2015 with the second gen (aka uglier looking) 370z where they offered an auto and navigation. Nismo has never been about luxury and automatic transmissions. If they really wanted this thing to be made for the track, they should have stuck their own 6 speed DCT from the GTR in it instead of using a Mercedes 9 speed torque converted automatic.
It just seems silly though. Anyone wanting to go fast around a track will not buy this car, there are faster cars for cheaper. This car is for a customer that doesn't exist. Not to mention, they can't even get the regular Z out the door, and models near me are already marked up to the Nismo's MSRP. It feels like they rushed this to production, they could have taken their time to make a manual work while they figured out production on the regular version, and it would have been a home run. Instead they're going to rush a manual to market in the next few years like the Supra did, given recent news that manual sports car sales are increasing. Just another miss for Nissan management, not at all surprising
Great video! Nismo Z is a very nice car but the price and the third petal are the only issues with it. Im glad Nissan made it though. I want them to continue there endeavors in the sports car segment
That’s exactly it. Nissan has a stick coming, they just aren’t done with it yet. Would they rather give us something now in the meantime or wait until they have auto and stick available at the same time?
@@_Bishopton it’s a shame cause I desperately want a competitive marketplace again from Japan but unless you’re a die hard z guy I don’t see how you can justify spending 70 grand on this, that’s like almost used m series money too
@@olajimimark so... a car like the GT4-RS, which is lighter than this Z, which has a 6 piston front brake system with the option of a carbon ceramic setup is pointless? Please make that make sense....
At that price it should have the GTR's DCT transmission. 09 GTR's were available for 70k and that came with the DCT. This is only 4k cheaper and doesn't make as much power or torque as a 09 GTR.
@@lappu911Really? No shit Sherlock then what about cars like the GR86? Supra? GR Corolla? Integra Type S? M2? Mustang? Corvette? Don’t even talk to me about markups you can always find a place that sells at retail we should all know that by now
When Matt Farrah said “not platform shared, not powertrain shared”….. why are you lying it shares its chassi with the 370z and the engine for the Q series Infiniti
The price for the new Z Nismo or even the Z will be one of the biggest discussions when it comes to MSRP and inflation especially when you take everything everything consideration especially all the cars in that price range
I paid my 2018 base brand new for 30k cad. (Around 26k usd) no negotiation. It was cheaper than a civic SI and a BRZ/86. And in 2018 i have no cameras no gizmos no nothin (its what i wanted)
Too much money for poor performance and handling. They should have called it the ZZZZ because of how boring it is. Just because an automatic can shift quicker doesn’t mean it gives you a better driving experience. You have no control over how the power gets put to the ground.
Im sure it’s a wonderful car to drive but I can’t get over paying almost 70K for what’s pretty much a slightly better 370z Nismo with a little turbo. You could buy a Supra, M2, RS3 for the same price brand new. For 10-20k less you can buy a civic type r, corolla GR, Elantra. Imo all the cars I listed are the better more affordable choice for a more track focused sports car
You could also get this Z for 12-15k less with a manual and a bit less power and just toss new suspension at it and call it a day. The Nismo had never been the value proposition for the Z.
This is a different league of acceleration than the 370z. It may be 1-1.5 seconds faster to 60, but it feels like a different league of performance from the vr30 torque.
Forget those. Go watch Throttle House video of the Emira. If you are in the market for a sports car 50 to 80k...spend the extra money and get the Emira. It puts the Z, Supra, M2, C8 Corvette and Cayman S to shame
They’re not gonna do that. Which is why Nissan sells the Nismo parts catalog through their dealership network. So if you don’t like the Nismo Z then you can just “make your own”, it’s easier to make money off customers by selling the “Nismo Z” as a set of parts for those that can’t or don’t want to buy the actual car itself
Yeah that’s a bit of my issue with the Nismo the performance trim went a bit too GT and the Nismo didn’t go as far as it probably should for a 66K price. I’m suspecting they will bring some of these changes to later versions of the Z.
Fantastic review brother. Mercedes would give you that same car with the same tuning and you would pay much more money just because of the name. It's perfectly priced.
70k doesn't have me going like a Nismo Zed. More like a turbo Vette. Or a 1LE... but agreed. Who is this for? Also, euro viewer here! Wish the vid had released when I got the notification a couple of hours ago but alas, y'all know best but maaaaaaaaan wish I coulda seen it with my dad. He's asleep now lol
Everyone cries because it's an auto, but then when they go on-sale that's all people buy :/ Makers sell what people pay for, if they are selling little to no manuals, they usually end up doing this.
I get that a track car is supposed to be about the fastest lap times, but honestly isn't it more about the fastest lap time "you" can get as the individual driver? There are plenty of drag racers that still use manuals and while the autos might be a hair faster they still go for their own record and have fun in the process. If we all wanted the absolute fastest lap times I don't think we would be looking at a Z to begin with(no offense, it is still fast but). I personally think the manual would engage more track drivers as they can truly hone their skill and it would be more engaging. Maybe I'm wrong? idk
@@dielaughing73 I agree but they had like zero budget for this car allegedly so, cant win them all. I actually think a good DCT comes close to a manual.
@@acx2035 in terms of driver enjoyment? I'm confident from my limited experience that a DCT is the better choice for a dedicated track car, and definitely for a race car. I'm a manual transmission devotee, but a DCT just frees up your attention and limbs to focus on driving faster. And you still get to shift all you want
People wanted to hate this car, but now this its actually good they complain about the price. In 2023 fast cars aint cheap, it sucks but thats the new normal.
I'm waiting on my manual GR86 Prem to come in now. I drove an automatic Mazda past few years and I just don't like automatic transmissions. Even the good ones seem to have a mind of their own. My Mazda takes a count of 2 if I push the throttle to floor to select its gear and engage or if I'm unlucky, I floor it and it stays in that gear and never shifts. I'm looking forward to having control over that process again. My 1996 Impala SS had an automatic that slipped so much in stock form that you couldn't even feel the shifts and it felt like a turd. After putting in a shift kit, it brought the car to life, but still there were times when it wouldn't shift when I wanted it to or it would shift before I wanted it to. Those are things that just a small percentage of us fret over, which is likely a reason why automatics are more popular. No Z for me.
Honestly this car has to be the most confusing car ever made and the ironic part is that it’s not even a crossover Is it just me or does the car give off identify crisis vibes?
What is it meant to be? A exact copy of the 370? Did the 350 have an identity crisis when it was launched as it was completely different to the previous gen?
@@MattJelonekWell firstly the Z is a 40k to 50k maybe 55k car yet it doesn’t have the performance nor does it have the quality to justify that price and it’s pretty much a reskinned 370Z like c’mon now for that price you might as well get a Supra Oh and also the new Z Nismo for 65k when it’s just 20 more hp, an “upgraded” 9-speed auto, suspension, and some track bits when there’s the Dark Horse or even the Corvette at that same price? C’mon man there’s just so many cars in that price range that commands more value for the money yet the Z lacks all of that it’s a cheap car asking for too much money for what it is
It seems like a great car for what is is, but that MSRP is simply unacceptable. There is just too much competition at 70k, including buying a cherry 370Z NISMO (that can be had in manual) and pocketing 40 grand.
I was turned away when I heard auto only but after Savage geese. Your reviews and the tst podcast reviewing it.. I'm willing to actually look at it I have this 9 speed in the frontier. sporty it is not. And the first 500 miles I swore the truck was dragging the converter at parking lot speeds. Now at 11k miles I don't even notice the trans unless it's bitter cold. (course all autos don't like sub 40 degree Temps) so.. We will see. Also the gtr is auto only and it's still a seller.
I’m not mad about the Nismo being auto-only. It makes sense if you’re looking for speed and outright performance in the modern era. If you want a stick just get a performance model Z.
An auto will only be faster in a short drag race by about a 1 car length.. no one is gonna be drag racing a 13second car that weighs over 3700lbs.. its 200+ lbs heavier than the base Z and 102lbs heavier than the Z performance.. And is about $12-15k markup with a whopping 20hp extra.. This car is a complete flop and will die in a year or two.. The US market will not pay $65k for one of these heavy tiny cars with lacking performance in nearly every single area to measure.. My 22 SS 1LE 6mt beats this car in every single category you can think of, yet only cost $48,965.. has better power, better brakes, better suspension, better cooling, better trans options, better rear diff, better seats, better drag times, faster around any track.. It so overweight and so overpriced its just not gonna sell to anyone who knows anything about cars..
Bets on Nissan pulling a page out of Porsches GT3 book, selling Auto-only first to cover the development costs, and then drop a mid-cycle refresh variant with a 6-speed and a marketing story along the lines of "our engineers worked on this in complete secrecy, and surprised our CEO" etc. That's the only way they're going to milk the most sales from this model.
So explain to us slow ones again how it's the best if it still needs a manual? Nissan screwed the pooch on this by not putting a manual in it. What a waste of a good platform.
I didn't feel like it was well justified either. It's not like they have special chassis bracing, different engine mounts, or something integral to the car that would require a massive level of service to replicate. Coilovers, ARBs, brakes/pads, etc. are easy to do.
@@flyingphoenix113 I have a 2016 370z Nismo, and I greatly improved already excellent handling through Swift Springs, SPL Suspension Parts and Whiteline Bushings.
Slight bit cheaper only than a Corvette. How do these compare in a track/daily sense? Matt got 115 mph indicated, C8 123 mph in a random video I found. I like their looks similarly, but C8 just has the more naughty supercar look.
The C8 is shockingly heavy, but that snappy DCT, short gearing, and freight train of an engine simply outgun the Z. The C8 also has phenomenal braking for 1 or 2 laps until its brakes overheat. Ironically, the Z is probably making up its time in the corner since all C8s (and that includes the C8 Z06, which I have had the pleasure of driving on track) are understeering messes in the corners.
@@bizzless2308, I meant for a Corvette, not relative to the Z. I would expect a 2+2 with a generous hatch to always be heavier than a dedicated, impractical 2-seat sports car.
I guess the question left for any potential buyers is; is it worth buying the Nismo over a "regular" Z + choosing what to aftermarket parts to install?
Its a great car at $35.40k.. My 22 Camaro SS 1LE Track pack is the exact same weight, bigger overall car, V8, Tremec Manual trans, e-diff, 3.73 gears, recaro seats, race ready tires, 14.9in rotors w/ 6pot Brembo's, trans & oil coolers, diff cooler, bespoke 20x11in wheels, pdr data video recorder.. All this for $48,965.. bought it at msrp last March at 1.9% interest.. Its was a fun summer ripping it around on nice weekends and 6 track days/3 weekends so far and its the best car I've ever owned sub $50k by faaaar...!! This car is almost ZL1 Camaro price!! The one I was deciding between my SS 1le $49k & ZL1 was $67,500.. This car is not anywhere near either of those performance or looks wise..
I feel like car makers are just trolling us at this point. Like how Mazda finally made an Mazda 3 turbo hatchback with AWD but psych! only available with an automatic :(
If this was the regular Z performance it’d be a very good bargain of a sports car but it’s not and the markups will make it out of reach for its market
I dont see them not making a manual Nismo. Even if its a limited run, maybe theyll follow the "limited Special Editions" trend a la Porsche and ask $20k more.
The new Nismo Z could also benefit from a face lift imo. Looks incredibly cheap and uninspired. The 370z front end with the new Z back end would look amazing imo.
Does a Shelby GT350 come with a cage or harness bar? does an SS 1LE come with them?.. NO.. NO Car ever driven on the street for any reason, should not come with a cage or harness bar.. Harnesses should never be used without a hans device, and no caged car should ever be driven without a helmet, as a small fender bender will crush your skull against a steel bar inside the drivers compartment.. If you want to ride around town with your helmet, get a cage.. a harness bar is not needed as this car doesn't have the speed to need either imo, unless door to door scca racing is being done, and then its gonna be a dedicated track car, which no one would want this for as it would get drug by Miata's at most tracks, and many fun Manual V8 cars that are obviously superior in many aspects.. This new Z looks like a high school or college girls car.. Its not tough looking like a Camaro, Mustang, or even the new Supra.. Its the worst looking sports car in its price range imo!! With an auto trans.. lol
This car is $14k too much. This car should have been the "performance" model. Way way overpriced. The measuring stick is the Camaro SS 1LE. And the SS 1LE and Supra too may still own this car on the track and the street. Nissan really screwed up.
I got to sit in the new Z at the Philly auto show, and it just didn’t feel new. If looked and felt way to similar to my friends 350Z. My barber has a redsport with this new engine, and he got his engine and turbos replaced under warranty because of bad castings. I’m just not stoked about the new Z. At least the nismo looks better than the base.
As always, Z cars are disappointingly 350+ lb more than I expect them to be. Also, while the Supra's b58 is from another manufacturer, it's important to note that this VR engine is hardly unique- it's nearly identical to the Infiniti ones that have been around for 10+ years. And even though it's from BMW, I think the b58 engine is quite a boon to the Supra, whereas I have always hated the sound of all Nissan V6es. I also don't like how this car looks.
I agree with the weight comment, Acura Integra Type S is much lighter with 4 doors albeit wiith a lighter 4 cylinder engine. When the 350z first came out I remember one of the complaints was the high weight for a 2 seater. The Supra, while I like the exterior, I cannot buy a vehicle that's a BMW. I'll stick with my 370z until I can get my hands on a Performance Z without a markup.
Seems to be a trend with Nismo. They make a lot of not so obvious changes that make the car better to drive, but the headline figures don't justify the price. I hope there's a market fr it though, so they'll keep making fun cars
Is this a torque converter or DCT? Because it doesn’t sound robust enough for a DCT and not calibrated enough to compete with the BMW torque converter…gear changes are tiny bit slow..
Crazy how they said during the release that “it’s not a Z without a third pedal” then make then nismo auto only? I don’t get it… such a shame
"marketing"
In the Savagegeese video they say since the car has more power that the manual they have isn’t up to par for reliability.
They did exactly what was asked. A track focused car. Most modern race cars are paddle shift. It’s quickest that way. They don’t want quickest manual they want what’s quickest for the chasis overall.
@@jacksonmccormick3839it’s barely any more power. But I’ve heard the manual exists, just going to be another “special version” next year. 😅
Go winge about the nissan gtr instead. I'm sick of hearing this same bot comment from everyone.
3704 lbs 😳2009 GTR 3800 lbs with AWD
My 2018 is 3498lbs
About the weight of the G37 🤷🏾♂️
Modern safety/crash regulations will do that to you.
It’s the same platform so in order to hit those targets and improve the structure that means more weight.
That said I’ve yet to see a review of any of the Z where the person complained it felt heavy.
@lw1878 yes, i felt it on the track with 86s, (small track) but in the curves they braked later and turned faster, back on the straight id get it all back tho lol
@@claudemartin7785, wait, are you speaking about a 370Z or a G37. There's no way any R35 GTR is 3500lbs unless it has been stripped and prepped for racing (new wiring, RWD conversion, lighter sequential, etc.)
I’m glad to hear the Nismo is a great car. It sounds like the chassis is very competent and fun to drive. I’m mixed about the lack of a manual. Like you I will always prefer a manual but being labeled as a track car, paddles will consistently be faster and eliminate driver errors. I grew up in a Z car home before graduating to Porsche’s with my earliest memories being my dad taking me to daycare in his 280z and will always remember when he got an early 350z which I eventually purchased from him. I’m very glad to see Nissan is doing a great job with the current Z.
I’m sure Nissan will offer the Nismo with a third pedal in a year or two.
Exactly what I’m saying. They know there’s a demand and it’ll sell
Just like the Supra
Another review I watched said Nissan doesn't have a Manual that will handle the increased power, per the Engineering team.
@@CrappyCara hundred percent
@@CrappyCar Maybe they can ask Toyota.
Also Thank you Nissan for making an actual Nismo. Not just a body kit and suspension swap.
I don’t understand why you wouldn’t replicate this in the aftermarket. We’re talking about some chassis bracing/sealer/welding, stiffer bushings, big brakes, wider wheels, a body kit, and a tune. That’s all doable by a competent shop.
I get it. It's a track car. Track cars are about lap times. Sports cars are about fun and engagement. Get the standard Z for canyon stuff, and the Nismo if you're going to be doing track work. I don't necessarily AGREE with it, but I understand focused products. The manual from the standard model is exactly the same as the 370z, so it's not like it would cost them any more in development costs. Maybe they're planning on a hardcore "Black" edition, or will introduce the manual at a later date? We know from the drift folks that the gearbox can hold the power.
I agree the manual can handle a lot more power but maybe not necessarily enough reliability to pass their internal testing standards
My 07 Nismo 350z only came in a manual. 1st gen Nismo 370z's were manual only. It was only in 2015 with the second gen (aka uglier looking) 370z where they offered an auto and navigation. Nismo has never been about luxury and automatic transmissions. If they really wanted this thing to be made for the track, they should have stuck their own 6 speed DCT from the GTR in it instead of using a Mercedes 9 speed torque converted automatic.
It just seems silly though. Anyone wanting to go fast around a track will not buy this car, there are faster cars for cheaper. This car is for a customer that doesn't exist. Not to mention, they can't even get the regular Z out the door, and models near me are already marked up to the Nismo's MSRP. It feels like they rushed this to production, they could have taken their time to make a manual work while they figured out production on the regular version, and it would have been a home run. Instead they're going to rush a manual to market in the next few years like the Supra did, given recent news that manual sports car sales are increasing. Just another miss for Nissan management, not at all surprising
@@UnicornpirateGTR has a rear transaxle transmission. Very difficult to adapt to the Z.
You have to switch out the standard Z's bumper and grill for the Nismo though. It really fixed the looks of the car.
Great video! Nismo Z is a very nice car but the price and the third petal are the only issues with it. Im glad Nissan made it though. I want them to continue there endeavors in the sports car segment
That’s exactly it. Nissan has a stick coming, they just aren’t done with it yet. Would they rather give us something now in the meantime or wait until they have auto and stick available at the same time?
Nissan May adapt a manual my friend, they just need the demand for it..
60k+ for a shtbox nissan!?!? 🤯
@@mengx94”shitbox Nissan”
My guy just a hater that thinks he knows something about cars…
70 k is steep for this can’t lie, can get a 1le for 20 k less.
Yup... SS 1LE, Mustang Mach 1 and if you are lucky... you can find a C8 Z51 w/ comp seats for $75k. Then there is the used market...
@@_Bishopton it’s a shame cause I desperately want a competitive marketplace again from Japan but unless you’re a die hard z guy I don’t see how you can justify spending 70 grand on this, that’s like almost used m series money too
@@MultiBluedog123 Yeah I feel ya man. I love the Z but I also love cars in general. The price point is going to get this car axed.
C6 or c7 grand sport?
@@MrStinkeyWinkey yeah or either of those, I just mean there’s a lot out there better for this price.
I think at $66k, it should have 450hp on California's 91 octane. Also, it should at the least have the GT-R's standard front brakes.
GTR is much heavier than the Z, putting those brakes on it would be pointless.
@@olajimimark so... a car like the GT4-RS, which is lighter than this Z, which has a 6 piston front brake system with the option of a carbon ceramic setup is pointless? Please make that make sense....
At that price it should have the GTR's DCT transmission. 09 GTR's were available for 70k and that came with the DCT. This is only 4k cheaper and doesn't make as much power or torque as a 09 GTR.
@@Unicornpirate 70k from 2009 in 105k in 2023. you know that inflation exists right?
@@lappu911Really? No shit Sherlock then what about cars like the GR86? Supra? GR Corolla? Integra Type S? M2? Mustang? Corvette? Don’t even talk to me about markups you can always find a place that sells at retail we should all know that by now
Yeah, no manual is a big mistake. And there's a lot of better competition in that price range.
Its up to Supra base Corvette price.
60k for a shtbox nissan!? 🤯
M2 is ugly but a way better car
When Matt Farrah said “not platform shared, not powertrain shared”….. why are you lying it shares its chassi with the 370z and the engine for the Q series Infiniti
I tried to buy one, but the chiseler/dealership wants 10k over the MSRP. Don't be stupid.
The price for the new Z Nismo or even the Z will be one of the biggest discussions when it comes to MSRP and inflation especially when you take everything everything consideration especially all the cars in that price range
I paid my 2018 base brand new for 30k cad. (Around 26k usd) no negotiation. It was cheaper than a civic SI and a BRZ/86. And in 2018 i have no cameras no gizmos no nothin (its what i wanted)
@lw1878 so are Chargers and Challengers and... 300s i guess, they got "updated" 🤣.
I think the Z was the last car to get a rear view camera in 2019
@@claudemartin7785Except that it’s a Hellcat🥱
@claudemartin7785 Yeah I prefer having no infotainment system..just give me physical controls, buttons, stereo, & an aux port & I'm good.
@@Roberto-de8xv and even a Mirage, a Spark and a Micra had those in 2018. So im glad/happy that the base Z didnt. The newest oldest car 🤔 😂
Well done. No hype, just facts, and live opinions. Good driving too.
Too much money for poor performance and handling. They should have called it the ZZZZ because of how boring it is. Just because an automatic can shift quicker doesn’t mean it gives you a better driving experience. You have no control over how the power gets put to the ground.
Very good and informative video Matt!
Im sure it’s a wonderful car to drive but I can’t get over paying almost 70K for what’s pretty much a slightly better 370z Nismo with a little turbo. You could buy a Supra, M2, RS3 for the same price brand new. For 10-20k less you can buy a civic type r, corolla GR, Elantra. Imo all the cars I listed are the better more affordable choice for a more track focused sports car
You could also get this Z for 12-15k less with a manual and a bit less power and just toss new suspension at it and call it a day.
The Nismo had never been the value proposition for the Z.
I got my supra for 52k with 6k miles 🤣
You could also buy a Z51 C8 for this kind of money with a real dual clutch transmission and mid engine mounted V8😂
@@aebk8439 yup
That watch is insane on camera my god🔥
What watch is it?
It definitely needs a stick...after driving both nismo 370z back to back, the stick was much more enjoyable and felt even more connected
this is a lot different than the auto in the 370. . .
This is a different league of acceleration than the 370z. It may be 1-1.5 seconds faster to 60, but it feels like a different league of performance from the vr30 torque.
No third pedal, almost as heavy as R35 GTR. Just buy the Q60 coupe and throw in suspension upgrades
Would really like to see a nismo z vs m2 comparison
There is no comparison. The M2 is better in every way
@@StrongerThanEver84 Except for looks. G87 looks ugly AF
Forget those. Go watch Throttle House video of the Emira. If you are in the market for a sports car 50 to 80k...spend the extra money and get the Emira. It puts the Z, Supra, M2, C8 Corvette and Cayman S to shame
@@Unicornpirate The Nismo Z is a very good looking car.
@@Unicornpirate I'd probably buy the Supra.
5:34 that is actually not true, The new Z is an evolution of the 370z and shares both the platform and the engine with the Infiniti Q50/Q60/G37 etc...
Maybe they should do a like "Z GTS-T" with the base engine and manual transmission but with the chassis mods of the NISMO.
They’re not gonna do that. Which is why Nissan sells the Nismo parts catalog through their dealership network. So if you don’t like the Nismo Z then you can just “make your own”, it’s easier to make money off customers by selling the “Nismo Z” as a set of parts for those that can’t or don’t want to buy the actual car itself
Bro move on nissan ain’t like that anymore
Its a cool car and I'm glad it drives well, but that price is way too close to a c8 Corvette
This video is incredible, thank you Matt! I love all the extra camera shots, it really helps put us there on track with you a bit more.
I don’t understand why the Z Performance wasn’t this NiSMO car, not the Buick suspension dynamics car they sell as non NISMO Z
Yeah that’s a bit of my issue with the Nismo the performance trim went a bit too GT and the Nismo didn’t go as far as it probably should for a 66K price.
I’m suspecting they will bring some of these changes to later versions of the Z.
Another great video Matt! Thanks. 👍
I’m gonna be honest, being the best modern Nissan sports bar is hurdling a VERY lowered bar.
No manual..no nismo!!! What was they thinking?? On top of that they gonna want like 70k to almost 80k for this car with only 20hp bump 😂
Matt dropping some content to enjoy with dinner on this beautiful October Monday here in Ohio.
Fantastic review brother. Mercedes would give you that same car with the same tuning and you would pay much more money just because of the name. It's perfectly priced.
A well informed video on an excellent car. 94 octane north of the boarder will make the Z sing.
Car to car shots are fabulous.
70k doesn't have me going like a Nismo Zed. More like a turbo Vette.
Or a 1LE... but agreed. Who is this for?
Also, euro viewer here! Wish the vid had released when I got the notification a couple of hours ago but alas, y'all know best but maaaaaaaaan wish I coulda seen it with my dad.
He's asleep now lol
Everyone cries because it's an auto, but then when they go on-sale that's all people buy :/
Makers sell what people pay for, if they are selling little to no manuals, they usually end up doing this.
At the end of the day, sticks are more fun, but good autos win races. Can’t have both.
I get that a track car is supposed to be about the fastest lap times, but honestly isn't it more about the fastest lap time "you" can get as the individual driver? There are plenty of drag racers that still use manuals and while the autos might be a hair faster they still go for their own record and have fun in the process. If we all wanted the absolute fastest lap times I don't think we would be looking at a Z to begin with(no offense, it is still fast but). I personally think the manual would engage more track drivers as they can truly hone their skill and it would be more engaging. Maybe I'm wrong? idk
I mean if it were truly about faster lap times they'd give it a DCT
@@dielaughing73 I agree but they had like zero budget for this car allegedly so, cant win them all. I actually think a good DCT comes close to a manual.
@@acx2035 in terms of driver enjoyment? I'm confident from my limited experience that a DCT is the better choice for a dedicated track car, and definitely for a race car.
I'm a manual transmission devotee, but a DCT just frees up your attention and limbs to focus on driving faster. And you still get to shift all you want
Back end looks great
People wanted to hate this car, but now this its actually good they complain about the price. In 2023 fast cars aint cheap, it sucks but thats the new normal.
No no no way bro. I’m not buying it. My Fireblade way too fast.👺
I'm waiting on my manual GR86 Prem to come in now. I drove an automatic Mazda past few years and I just don't like automatic transmissions. Even the good ones seem to have a mind of their own. My Mazda takes a count of 2 if I push the throttle to floor to select its gear and engage or if I'm unlucky, I floor it and it stays in that gear and never shifts. I'm looking forward to having control over that process again. My 1996 Impala SS had an automatic that slipped so much in stock form that you couldn't even feel the shifts and it felt like a turd. After putting in a shift kit, it brought the car to life, but still there were times when it wouldn't shift when I wanted it to or it would shift before I wanted it to. Those are things that just a small percentage of us fret over, which is likely a reason why automatics are more popular. No Z for me.
Honestly this car has to be the most confusing car ever made and the ironic part is that it’s not even a crossover
Is it just me or does the car give off identify crisis vibes?
What is it meant to be? A exact copy of the 370? Did the 350 have an identity crisis when it was launched as it was completely different to the previous gen?
@@MattJelonekWell firstly the Z is a 40k to 50k maybe 55k car yet it doesn’t have the performance nor does it have the quality to justify that price and it’s pretty much a reskinned 370Z like c’mon now for that price you might as well get a Supra
Oh and also the new Z Nismo for 65k when it’s just 20 more hp, an “upgraded” 9-speed auto, suspension, and some track bits when there’s the Dark Horse or even the Corvette at that same price? C’mon man there’s just so many cars in that price range that commands more value for the money yet the Z lacks all of that it’s a cheap car asking for too much money for what it is
The car makes perfect sense, but the price doesn’t. I’d say the price is because Nissan isn’t doing well.
The Supra is definitely the identity crisis car.
This feels very Z all the way around (once the manual transmission comes)
@@Brock_CO Doesn't help that the Supra beats this car even in track times and is like $10k to $15k cheaper
It seems like a great car for what is is, but that MSRP is simply unacceptable. There is just too much competition at 70k, including buying a cherry 370Z NISMO (that can be had in manual) and pocketing 40 grand.
I was turned away when I heard auto only but after Savage geese. Your reviews and the tst podcast reviewing it.. I'm willing to actually look at it I have this 9 speed in the frontier. sporty it is not. And the first 500 miles I swore the truck was dragging the converter at parking lot speeds. Now at 11k miles I don't even notice the trans unless it's bitter cold. (course all autos don't like sub 40 degree Temps) so.. We will see. Also the gtr is auto only and it's still a seller.
Matt you need to get a tuned one from Z1 Motorsports in Carrolton ga. 600 hp. That should be the nismo
Omg finally the note book is back
Funny I have not seen one new Z on the road, where are they?
I’m not mad about the Nismo being auto-only. It makes sense if you’re looking for speed and outright performance in the modern era. If you want a stick just get a performance model Z.
An auto will only be faster in a short drag race by about a 1 car length.. no one is gonna be drag racing a 13second car that weighs over 3700lbs.. its 200+ lbs heavier than the base Z and 102lbs heavier than the Z performance.. And is about $12-15k markup with a whopping 20hp extra.. This car is a complete flop and will die in a year or two.. The US market will not pay $65k for one of these heavy tiny cars with lacking performance in nearly every single area to measure.. My 22 SS 1LE 6mt beats this car in every single category you can think of, yet only cost $48,965.. has better power, better brakes, better suspension, better cooling, better trans options, better rear diff, better seats, better drag times, faster around any track.. It so overweight and so overpriced its just not gonna sell to anyone who knows anything about cars..
Bets on Nissan pulling a page out of Porsches GT3 book, selling Auto-only first to cover the development costs, and then drop a mid-cycle refresh variant with a 6-speed and a marketing story along the lines of "our engineers worked on this in complete secrecy, and surprised our CEO" etc. That's the only way they're going to milk the most sales from this model.
This is quite the turn around from when the newest Z first hit the market was was known to handle terribly.
So explain to us slow ones again how it's the best if it still needs a manual?
Nissan screwed the pooch on this by not putting a manual in it. What a waste of a good platform.
Now that is screaming.........LS3 SWAP!!!!
I think Matt is one of the only people who like this car...
I want to see the dyno comparison to the normal manual
Why can't you replicate the Nismo's power/handling in the aftermarket? This was stated but not explained.
I didn't feel like it was well justified either. It's not like they have special chassis bracing, different engine mounts, or something integral to the car that would require a massive level of service to replicate. Coilovers, ARBs, brakes/pads, etc. are easy to do.
@@flyingphoenix113 I have a 2016 370z Nismo, and I greatly improved already excellent handling through Swift Springs, SPL Suspension Parts and Whiteline Bushings.
Beautiful looking car
Sick watch Matt.
Didn't know you were a lefty
I came to see if I could take Matt's Shacket pattern and see if Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur would make into seat inserts.
Love my 370z sorry can’t drive a stick no more cause of health issues but love my car
Slight bit cheaper only than a Corvette. How do these compare in a track/daily sense? Matt got 115 mph indicated, C8 123 mph in a random video I found. I like their looks similarly, but C8 just has the more naughty supercar look.
The C8 is shockingly heavy, but that snappy DCT, short gearing, and freight train of an engine simply outgun the Z. The C8 also has phenomenal braking for 1 or 2 laps until its brakes overheat. Ironically, the Z is probably making up its time in the corner since all C8s (and that includes the C8 Z06, which I have had the pleasure of driving on track) are understeering messes in the corners.
@@flyingphoenix113 the C8 is almost 200lbs lighter than this Z
@@bizzless2308, I meant for a Corvette, not relative to the Z. I would expect a 2+2 with a generous hatch to always be heavier than a dedicated, impractical 2-seat sports car.
if it was going to be auto only. AT LEAST USE A DUAL CLUTCH. BUT NOOO! 💀
Watch and jacket please? I’m trying to rock both this fall. Proper Dad threads
As much as I hear people talk about this car I still have yet to see one on the road here in Houston. Could just be me, idk🤷🏾♂️
I guess the question left for any potential buyers is; is it worth buying the Nismo over a "regular" Z + choosing what to aftermarket parts to install?
Totally up to the buyer, but as explained in the video, there are mods done by Nismo that will be near impossible to replicate on a normal Z.
I actually LOLed alone in my kitchen when he said it was $66k
I’m convinced.
It’s a great car at $50K-$55K, if it had a manual
Its a great car at $35.40k.. My 22 Camaro SS 1LE Track pack is the exact same weight, bigger overall car, V8, Tremec Manual trans, e-diff, 3.73 gears, recaro seats, race ready tires, 14.9in rotors w/ 6pot Brembo's, trans & oil coolers, diff cooler, bespoke 20x11in wheels, pdr data video recorder.. All this for $48,965.. bought it at msrp last March at 1.9% interest.. Its was a fun summer ripping it around on nice weekends and 6 track days/3 weekends so far and its the best car I've ever owned sub $50k by faaaar...!! This car is almost ZL1 Camaro price!! The one I was deciding between my SS 1le $49k & ZL1 was $67,500.. This car is not anywhere near either of those performance or looks wise..
Personally id love to own this car in blue 🥰
What do you mean cant replicate this car in the aftermarket?
Right lol u can easily replicate this and make even more power if u want
I live in a small PA town and I have seen more Bugatti's than I have new Z cars. Do these actually exist??????
The shifting sounds real quick
takes time to react tho... look when he moves his hand and when it shifts
$70k for a Z without dealer markup is crazy.
Looks great, but for $66K I think I'd prefer a base C8
I love this car !😮
I feel like car makers are just trolling us at this point. Like how Mazda finally made an Mazda 3 turbo hatchback with AWD but psych! only available with an automatic :(
If this was the regular Z performance it’d be a very good bargain of a sports car but it’s not and the markups will make it out of reach for its market
Thats tight!
Ultimately, Nissan not investing in a new platform was their worst mistake.
matt looked like the faster driver than the lead driver
I dont see them not making a manual Nismo. Even if its a limited run, maybe theyll follow the "limited Special Editions" trend a la Porsche and ask $20k more.
The new Nismo Z could also benefit from a face lift imo. Looks incredibly cheap and uninspired. The 370z front end with the new Z back end would look amazing imo.
Shame it hasn't come to the UK
Manual or no, it's going to get cross shopped against some MUCH faster cars for those who want a track toy.
Y’all can talk sh*t about the nismo not being manual all you want but I think it’s sick af 😎🔥
I like it but hate the price tag!!!! This should be the performance package price point....
Nice car and I’ve always loved the Z, but if this is a track car, then does it come with a cage and harness?
Does a Shelby GT350 come with a cage or harness bar? does an SS 1LE come with them?.. NO.. NO Car ever driven on the street for any reason, should not come with a cage or harness bar.. Harnesses should never be used without a hans device, and no caged car should ever be driven without a helmet, as a small fender bender will crush your skull against a steel bar inside the drivers compartment.. If you want to ride around town with your helmet, get a cage.. a harness bar is not needed as this car doesn't have the speed to need either imo, unless door to door scca racing is being done, and then its gonna be a dedicated track car, which no one would want this for as it would get drug by Miata's at most tracks, and many fun Manual V8 cars that are obviously superior in many aspects.. This new Z looks like a high school or college girls car.. Its not tough looking like a Camaro, Mustang, or even the new Supra.. Its the worst looking sports car in its price range imo!! With an auto trans.. lol
This car is $14k too much. This car should have been the "performance" model. Way way overpriced. The measuring stick is the Camaro SS 1LE. And the SS 1LE and Supra too may still own this car on the track and the street. Nissan really screwed up.
What is THAT watch. It looks amazing
Still running akebonos after all these years
There's nothing wrong with the Akebonos, If they're good enough for McLarens, they should be good for this.
@@ekklipse wasn’t a knock, just genuinely surprised to know they still rocking with the same brands after 20 plus years.
@ekklipse also Enkei supplied their F1 cars with wheels since 1995 until BBS became the supplier for all teams
I have this car shortlisted to replace my Audi TTRS (2012 manual) If this doesn't come with manual in the Australian market I won't be buying . . .
I got to sit in the new Z at the Philly auto show, and it just didn’t feel new. If looked and felt way to similar to my friends 350Z. My barber has a redsport with this new engine, and he got his engine and turbos replaced under warranty because of bad castings. I’m just not stoked about the new Z. At least the nismo looks better than the base.
I believe they've improved the turbos on the new Z compared to the older VR30 platforms.
@@MrDaoby That's good to hear.
Much better bumper
As always, Z cars are disappointingly 350+ lb more than I expect them to be. Also, while the Supra's b58 is from another manufacturer, it's important to note that this VR engine is hardly unique- it's nearly identical to the Infiniti ones that have been around for 10+ years. And even though it's from BMW, I think the b58 engine is quite a boon to the Supra, whereas I have always hated the sound of all Nissan V6es. I also don't like how this car looks.
I agree with the weight comment, Acura Integra Type S is much lighter with 4 doors albeit wiith a lighter 4 cylinder engine. When the 350z first came out I remember one of the complaints was the high weight for a 2 seater.
The Supra, while I like the exterior, I cannot buy a vehicle that's a BMW. I'll stick with my 370z until I can get my hands on a Performance Z without a markup.
No carbon ceramic brake option for a track focused sports car? Still nice.👍
Seems to be a trend with Nismo. They make a lot of not so obvious changes that make the car better to drive, but the headline figures don't justify the price. I hope there's a market fr it though, so they'll keep making fun cars
You can’t even but the regular Z, they should focus on building those
I heard that the manual does not hold up well with abuse or more power.
Any videos to link?
Is this a torque converter or DCT? Because it doesn’t sound robust enough for a DCT and not calibrated enough to compete with the BMW torque converter…gear changes are tiny bit slow..
I'm. Putting a deposit down tmrw. Waiting to here Matt, how you compare it to the supra and type r