Quote:
Originally Posted by skidad62
I have a roadster with the sport package - got to drive a Nismo the other night to compare.
Engine/exhaust
Was surprised how similar the exhaust note was.
Could not feel any difference in pulling power. I'm sure the Nismo is slightly quicker for the weight advantage but only if side by side.
The Nismo seemed to have less throttle response - when rev'd the revs seemed to hang and not come down as quickly. It was cold out - not sure if that had an effect. Didn't affect my sport model the same.
Handling
The Nismo sat lower and had a great looking stance
The suspension set up on the Nismo was harsh compared to the sport package - can see that it's firmness would be an asset on the track
Other
The seats were a little more spartan on the Nismo and the manual adjustments etc. The heated/cooled and power seats on the Sport model were more refined for sure
The OEM headunit was much more basic in the Nismo
I liked the front clip and rear valence on the Nismo
I liked the rear fog on the Sport
In the end for track use - the Nismo makes complete sense. Preferred the Sport model for street use.
Love them both though.
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Good to see more reviews without the blatant bias.
I do think you're comparing a few of the Touring upgrades to the base/sport/Nismo offerings though. Sport doesn't do anything to upgrade the OEM head unit or the seats. Ditto on the rear light, although the new Nismos now come with that light.
I too had an opportunity to see how the other half lives. The g/f just got a 2013 Magma Red base Z with auto.
Comfort: The stock car is so much quieter, and the ride is so much gentler in the non-Nismo. (Granted compared to the way my car is setup now, 95% of cars out there are quieter and gentler) I imagine upgrading to the Touring would add just that additional level of creature comfort.
Handling: The handling of the base just feels duller. The smaller tires and softer suspension really do not do much for me. The brakes are good, but again not the same. The sport upgrade is truly a worthwhile upgrade.
My Conclusion: The Nismo for a DD is not for everyone. The real beauty of the Nismo is more than the sum of its parts. It is as others have stated before just a little bit sharper here and there. I don't think it is something that you can truly feel/appreciate just driving around town. It really begins to shine on the track where that stiffer suspension, increased traction, and extra aero can actually be of use.
Sure you can go ahead and add more stuff to a base/sport, but you can do that to the Nismo too, and I think we've beat that topic into the ground. For those that are ok with trading a little comfort for a little more performance and looks, then the Nismo might just fit the bill.