I think this really points to the fact that the Z car has grown into a different market segment because the evolution of automobile technology. I think maybe his criticism is slightly misdirected, or misinterpreted.
The 240Z has naturally evolved into the 370Z as a two seat GT car with competitive HP to American muscle cars, with superior handling characteristics and style, just down market from the Corvette. And as result, established a Japanese born American Icon.
The 240SX, on the other hand is better targeted for the sub 3000 lb, 4 cyl market to compete with the miata.
The Z car has evolved in much the same way as other cars, in the pursuit to make a car more competitive within its respective market, a manufacturer will naturally engineer a car up market. For example the Honda Accord has moved up market, as has the Civic, and as a result Honda has replaced the Civic with the Fit as its subcompact econ car.
So I think his criticism of the 370Z is somewhat unfair, and really should be restated as a call to Nissan to bring back the Silvia (as Fusz says) if he really desires a car in the "Miata market".
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2016 Cayman GTS 6MT / 2017 Q60 Sport / 2012 Acura TL SH-AWD / 2015 Lexus IS 350 AWD F-Sport (Sold) / 2009 PG 370Z Sport 6MT, (Sold) / 2003 SS 350Z Enthusiast 6MT (Sold)
Last edited by pulpz; 12-23-2009 at 02:10 PM.
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