EVOAxe has some very valid points. The Z in stock tune and weight really isnt much of a competitor for EVO in raw performance numbers. It falls behind most cars in pure performance. I might contend that sticker and actual sales prices of Nismos differ quite a bit. So Nismo should be used when looking at track stats. I walked out the door with my Nismo for $36K. Thing I love is I have sold wheels and few other Nismo parts for over $4000. Making my base car to start $32K and I get to keep all cool Nismo body work, fun Nismo interior details, Nismo strut braces etc. See how much it would cost for you to buy stock nismo body panels and you will quickly realize what a bargin the Nismo is compared to other models of 370Z.
SCCA Solo really isnt a good indicator of a cars potential. Stock Evo against stock Z is a blood bath in SCCA. Heck SP EVO against SP 370Z is a blood bath as well. Evo has huge power and gearing advantage over the lazy geared Z. Even SSM level one really cant get Z down to weight of competitive cars unless you go with some ultra exotic $$$ parts. 370Z is a real tank but tanks are good if you want a sturdy track day car. Everything about the car is over engineered in strength department. I dont think we will see issues with chassis cracks or mounting point failures like BMW's and other cars experience.
However throw out the classing and fiddle with Z a little and it can be something that is very fun to drive. Its not going to be a national level winning car unless its built perfectly and driven by top driver but I really never bought my Z as a car to run in a class. Its always just been a fun fast car.
For those who didn't see my Hillclimb thread take a listen to this.
http://redirector.googlevideo.com/vi...416B66&key=lh1
Id rather drive sexy 370 Z than a hopped up toaster oven! Even if it is ultimately faster than a Z in AX. Something about that long sleek hood and tight cockpit with rear drive that is always ready to bite that makes the car far more exciting to drive than any AWD car. And Im pretty confident my car would give most Street driven Evos a very hard time now especially on the track where it excels. Its still a little too heavy to be a good AX car. And until I get more tire under it it struggles to put power down.
However saying all that If I was in market for ugly toadster oven styled blown econo box, EVO would be on top of my list for sure!
