Is the NISMO worth it?

DeLRo · 09-08-2010, 12:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by roplusbee

Hook up with someone that has one or just go to the dealer and work out a test drive. That should let you know how you really fell once you have taken it around the block...............

What dealership can you test drive a Nismo at? All the ones I've seen are showroom models. I've been curious to see feel the differences in handling.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cell

I have yet to see any other nismo here in Chicago and Chicago is a huge city. I've seen only 2 other 370z. One being a convertible, it was that ugly purple color. Sorry for those that love the color. The second one being a regular 370z in PG with a sports package.

A ton of people eye ball my car like it was a Ferrari just because they have never seen one before.

Out here in Cali I've only seen two on the road and that was after leaving a car show. Other than that the only other one I've seen was at the dealership.

It's funny I get a lot of random looks and questions on the Z. It's funnier when I get people familiar with the "Fairlady" and ask questions about my "350z".

Quote:

Originally Posted by johnnydrama

The Nismo is a much more exotic looking car than regular Z period. I've only seen 2 regular Z's here where I live and really don't worry about ever seeing another Nismo.

I would have held out for a white Nismo if I didn't get such a great deal on my touring sport. But to be fair to my baby, I ended up with the exact package and color combo that I first saw and fell in love with back in '09 when I made the decision to get a Z. It wasn't until last May that I saw a Nismo and that wasn't even in person.

Jose Aliling · 09-09-2010, 12:08 AM

bang for the buck

retiredmd · 09-08-2010, 10:02 AM

Permit me to answer your query. Understand that I held NHRA (National Competition/Super Street) and SCCA (National Competition) licenses before most on the Board were born. In years past, I attended nine Racing/Driving schools, joined several Racing Clubs, was fortunate to drive on tracks from Long Beach to "The Ring", organized formal driving tours throughout Germany and Switzerland and served as Instructor during a number of driving events sponsored by PCA and BMWCCA. And, oh yes, I was a maniac before retirement, owning six 911 Turbos, three 911s, three NSXs, a ZR-1 Vette, Viper RT/10, Lotus Espirit S4S and a Callaway TT Vette. And those were just my sports cars. My "family cars" included two M5s, two E-55 AMGs, a C-63 AMG, a C-32 AMG, an M6, a MB 2.3-16 Cosworth, etc.
The point of all this is that I have some experience to intelligently discuss the matter.
Now, from a general performance and handling standpoint, a new Nismo's additional cost above a base/sport model is NOT justified. For one thing, when stock, the Nismo is fractionally slower in acceleration runs because the stiff rear suspension will not permit the car to squat and hook-up off the line. Hence, the addition of after-market goodies to a base model will produce a noticeably faster car than a stock Nismo and still cost less.
As to handling, there ARE differences between a Nismo and base/sport models-some good, others not. The Nismo demonstrates slightly better on-center steering feel, feedback and response (wheel/tire package the likely reason), better turn-in and far better rotation and superior in inducing very easily controlled drifts. I found the base/sport model superior in the ability to steer with the throttle, take a line without having to correct, tolerance of trail-braking and decreasing-radius turns. All-in-all, a novice would find a base/sport model more forgiving and faster around most race and road courses.

ludeakris7 · 09-08-2010, 12:36 PM

My plan is to get the NISMO next summer...I wanna pay off a couple credit cards so I can have the higher car payment at 38-40k..my assumption is that they won't make any major changes to the car as a 2012 model but will maybe correct some issues. So why is such a solid car for the money not seen that much..as I've been researching whats out there it seems to me that the choices are slim in this price range. When you guys were making your decision what other cars did you consider? Any? BTW I saw a new 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STi Starting MSRP $33,995 – $37,345 and it actually looked a lot better than the inconspicuous recent versions....I've never seen a NISMO on the road to compare "WoW" factor but the STi did catch my eye..

daleks · 09-08-2010, 01:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ludeakris7

My plan is to get the NISMO next summer...I wanna pay off a couple credit cards so I can have the higher car payment at 38-40k..my assumption is that they won't make any major changes to the car as a 2012 model but will maybe correct some issues. So why is such a solid car for the money not seen that much..as I've been researching whats out there it seems to me that the choices are slim in this price range. When you guys were making your decision what other cars did you consider? Any? BTW I saw a new 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STi Starting MSRP $33,995 – $37,345 and it actually looked a lot better than the inconspicuous recent versions....I've never seen a NISMO on the road to compare "WoW" factor but the STi did catch my eye..

I cross shopped a 135i, Evo X MR, and a Sport model 370Z. The 1-series felt like a chick car and optioned out it would've been close to the price of a CTS-V or even bare bones E90. It's ridiculous. In the end I went with the NISMO due to the looks and I got a leftover 2009 for a steal. My DD is a SUV so I had no need for the 4 doors of the Evo.

fuct · 09-08-2010, 01:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by retiredmd

Permit me to answer your query. Understand that I held NHRA (National Competition/Super Street) and SCCA (National Competition) licenses before most on the Board were born. In years past, I attended nine Racing/Driving schools, joined several Racing Clubs, was fortunate to drive on tracks from Long Beach to "The Ring", organized formal driving tours throughout Germany and Switzerland and served as Instructor during a number of driving events sponsored by PCA and BMWCCA. And, oh yes, I was a maniac before retirement, owning six 911 Turbos, three 911s, three NSXs, a ZR-1 Vette, Viper RT/10, Lotus Espirit S4S and a Callaway TT Vette. And those were just my sports cars. My "family cars" included two M5s, two E-55 AMGs, a C-63 AMG, a C-32 AMG, an M6, a MB 2.3-16 Cosworth, etc.
The point of all this is that I have some experience to intelligently discuss the matter.
Now, from a general performance and handling standpoint, a new Nismo's additional cost above a base/sport model is NOT justified. For one thing, when stock, the Nismo is fractionally slower in acceleration runs because the stiff rear suspension will not permit the car to squat and hook-up off the line. Hence, the addition of after-market goodies to a base model will produce a noticeably faster car than a stock Nismo and still cost less.
As to handling, there ARE differences between a Nismo and base/sport models-some good, others not. The Nismo demonstrates slightly better on-center steering feel, feedback and response (wheel/tire package the likely reason), better turn-in and far better rotation and superior in inducing very easily controlled drifts. I found the base/sport model superior in the ability to steer with the throttle, take a line without having to correct, tolerance of trail-braking and decreasing-radius turns. All-in-all, a novice would find a base/sport model more forgiving and faster around most race and road courses.

ooook, so what are you doing on these boards then? shouldnt you be bragging on some ferrari forum?

daleks · 09-08-2010, 02:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by retiredmd

Permit me to answer your query. Understand that I held NHRA (National Competition/Super Street) and SCCA (National Competition) licenses before most on the Board were born. In years past, I attended nine Racing/Driving schools, joined several Racing Clubs, was fortunate to drive on tracks from Long Beach to "The Ring", organized formal driving tours throughout Germany and Switzerland and served as Instructor during a number of driving events sponsored by PCA and BMWCCA. And, oh yes, I was a maniac before retirement, owning six 911 Turbos, three 911s, three NSXs, a ZR-1 Vette, Viper RT/10, Lotus Espirit S4S and a Callaway TT Vette. And those were just my sports cars. My "family cars" included two M5s, two E-55 AMGs, a C-63 AMG, a C-32 AMG, an M6, a MB 2.3-16 Cosworth, etc.
The point of all this is that I have some experience to intelligently discuss the matter.

I see you're new to the Internet.

retiredmd · 09-09-2010, 05:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fuct

ooook, so what are you doing on these boards then? shouldnt you be bragging on some ferrari forum?

It was not my intention to "brag" as you suggest. I merely attempted to describe my 46 years of motoring experience to qualify my comments. I have driven many of the so-called competitors to the Z and was prepared to offer in-depth analyses and comparisons from my perspective. If I offended anyone, this was clearly not my purpose and I offer apologies.

Isamu · 09-08-2010, 09:43 AM

I picked up a nismo for about 38 with 12 miles on it... i live in north dakota, and can't drive it during winter, but it is a thrill to drive. I have a blazer for the winter and 2 300zx tts... and the nimso is so much fun to drive. Personally it sounds like you made up your mind.. go get that nismo son!

F1loco · 09-08-2010, 07:16 PM

135 is fast and fun, twin turbo power, you can't mess with that, but overall styling and drivability, Nismo wins. Almost went back to my Lotus roots, but Im aging and as a DD, glad I went Nismo. Also like the fact production is only 500 a year....

fuct · 09-08-2010, 07:34 PM

How do I have nismo 517 if they are only making 500??????

Mythic · 09-09-2010, 06:53 AM

The Nismo is the way to go, i got mine brand new off the showroom floor for $33,000, you can get a good deal on one if you shop around. I looked at a few of the new Z's, but there was no way i was gonna buy one unless it was a Nismo, it stands apart, the new 370 is rare as is, add the limited Nismo package, and it gets even better.

Upgreaded wheels (my favorite), suspension, interior, body kit, 9hp from com, 9hp from exhaust...just my own opinion, but i wouldnt have a Z if it werent for me running across my Nismo...

Oh, and ive had at least 5 people legit think that it was a porche...Ladies love the Nismo

ChrisSlicks · 09-09-2010, 07:11 AM

If you can get it for the right price (below $35K) and you don't intend to mod the heck out of it, and you don't mind the firm ride, I say go for it.

Myself I've replaced everything that distinguishes the Nismo aside from the body kit, suspension, sway bars, exhaust, wheels. My mods + base price car cost a far bit more than what Mystic paid but it is customized to my needs and wants.

So bottom line:
No mod: Nismo (if you can get a good price)
Mod junky: No Nismo

Mythic · 09-09-2010, 08:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ChrisSlicks

If you can get it for the right price (below $35K) and you don't intend to mod the heck out of it, and you don't mind the firm ride, I say go for it.

Myself I've replaced everything that distinguishes the Nismo aside from the body kit, suspension, sway bars, exhaust, wheels. My mods + base price car cost a far bit more than what Mystic paid but it is customized to my needs and wants.

So bottom line:
No mod: Nismo (if you can get a good price)
Mod junky: No Nismo

Yeah ill agree with this. Though i am a mod junky, this is the first car ive ever purchased. And i plan on keeping the modding to a minimum so i can finish school, but i wouldnt change a thing about my car, i effin love it

roplusbee · 09-09-2010, 08:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ChrisSlicks

If you can get it for the right price (below $35K) and you don't intend to mod the heck out of it, and you don't mind the firm ride, I say go for it.

Myself I've replaced everything that distinguishes the Nismo aside from the body kit, suspension, sway bars, exhaust, wheels. My mods + base price car cost a far bit more than what Mystic paid but it is customized to my needs and wants.

So bottom line:
No mod: Nismo (if you can get a good price)
Mod junky: No Nismo

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mythic

Yeah ill agree with this. Though i am a mod junky, this is the first car ive ever purchased. And i plan on keeping the modding to a minimum so i can finish school, but i wouldnt change a thing about my car, i effin love it

I'm not so sure that I can concurr with the above statements. As far as changing out the aero, I am on the fence about it (only considering the Stillen bumper for greater fuctionality after seeing it in person). To me the suspension, wheels, and interior (minus audio) are just right for me. I am a little on the fence about the brakes also.

Currently, I have swapped out the cat-back and have LTHs on order, considering the Stillen bumper (purely for better air-flow), and looking to go with some sort of FI application (if bolt-ons don't satisfy my need for more guts).

09-09-2010, 12:08 AM	#2 (permalink)
Jose Aliling Enthusiast Member Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Manila Posts: 298 Drives: tricycle Rep Power: 15	bang for the buck __________________ http://www.farmofminds.com/2012/10/r...hp-garage.html

09-08-2010, 10:02 AM	#3 (permalink)
retiredmd Base Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Florida Posts: 34 Drives: 370Z NISMO #354 Rep Power: 15	Nismo Permit me to answer your query. Understand that I held NHRA (National Competition/Super Street) and SCCA (National Competition) licenses before most on the Board were born. In years past, I attended nine Racing/Driving schools, joined several Racing Clubs, was fortunate to drive on tracks from Long Beach to "The Ring", organized formal driving tours throughout Germany and Switzerland and served as Instructor during a number of driving events sponsored by PCA and BMWCCA. And, oh yes, I was a maniac before retirement, owning six 911 Turbos, three 911s, three NSXs, a ZR-1 Vette, Viper RT/10, Lotus Espirit S4S and a Callaway TT Vette. And those were just my sports cars. My "family cars" included two M5s, two E-55 AMGs, a C-63 AMG, a C-32 AMG, an M6, a MB 2.3-16 Cosworth, etc. The point of all this is that I have some experience to intelligently discuss the matter. Now, from a general performance and handling standpoint, a new Nismo's additional cost above a base/sport model is NOT justified. For one thing, when stock, the Nismo is fractionally slower in acceleration runs because the stiff rear suspension will not permit the car to squat and hook-up off the line. Hence, the addition of after-market goodies to a base model will produce a noticeably faster car than a stock Nismo and still cost less. As to handling, there ARE differences between a Nismo and base/sport models-some good, others not. The Nismo demonstrates slightly better on-center steering feel, feedback and response (wheel/tire package the likely reason), better turn-in and far better rotation and superior in inducing very easily controlled drifts. I found the base/sport model superior in the ability to steer with the throttle, take a line without having to correct, tolerance of trail-braking and decreasing-radius turns. All-in-all, a novice would find a base/sport model more forgiving and faster around most race and road courses.

09-09-2010, 06:53 AM	#12 (permalink)
Mythic Base Member Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Live Oak Fl Posts: 223 Drives: 2010 Nismo 370Z Rep Power: 15	The Nismo is the way to go, i got mine brand new off the showroom floor for $33,000, you can get a good deal on one if you shop around. I looked at a few of the new Z's, but there was no way i was gonna buy one unless it was a Nismo, it stands apart, the new 370 is rare as is, add the limited Nismo package, and it gets even better. Upgreaded wheels (my favorite), suspension, interior, body kit, 9hp from com, 9hp from exhaust...just my own opinion, but i wouldnt have a Z if it werent for me running across my Nismo... Oh, and ive had at least 5 people legit think that it was a porche...Ladies love the Nismo __________________ *2010 Nismo 370z* - Magnetic Black, again *2009 Nismo* 370Z** SOLD

09-09-2010, 07:11 AM	#13 (permalink)
ChrisSlicks A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: North East Posts: 6,203 Drives: 09 370Z Sport M6 Rep Power: 654	If you can get it for the right price (below $35K) and you don't intend to mod the heck out of it, and you don't mind the firm ride, I say go for it. Myself I've replaced everything that distinguishes the Nismo aside from the body kit, suspension, sway bars, exhaust, wheels. My mods + base price car cost a far bit more than what Mystic paid but it is customized to my needs and wants. So bottom line: No mod: Nismo (if you can get a good price) Mod junky: No Nismo __________________ Hotchkis ARB \| Stillen CAI \| Art Pipes \| Berk CBE \| Stillen AP Racing Brakes \| AE Performance Oil Cooler \| BC Racing ER Coilovers \| Doran Control Arms

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09-08-2010, 12:36 PM	#4 (permalink)
ludeakris7 Base Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Philadelphia Posts: 27 Drives: 2001 Honda Prelude Rep Power: 16	My plan is to get the NISMO next summer...I wanna pay off a couple credit cards so I can have the higher car payment at 38-40k..my assumption is that they won't make any major changes to the car as a 2012 model but will maybe correct some issues. So why is such a solid car for the money not seen that much..as I've been researching whats out there it seems to me that the choices are slim in this price range. When you guys were making your decision what other cars did you consider? Any? BTW I saw a new 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STi Starting MSRP $33,995 – $37,345 and it actually looked a lot better than the inconspicuous recent versions....I've never seen a NISMO on the road to compare "WoW" factor but the STi did catch my eye..

09-08-2010, 09:43 AM	#9 (permalink)
Isamu A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Minot ND Posts: 51,960 Drives: every day... Rep Power: 213	I picked up a nismo for about 38 with 12 miles on it... i live in north dakota, and can't drive it during winter, but it is a thrill to drive. I have a blazer for the winter and 2 300zx tts... and the nimso is so much fun to drive. Personally it sounds like you made up your mind.. go get that nismo son!

09-08-2010, 07:16 PM	#10 (permalink)
F1loco Base Member Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Sunshine Posts: 203 Drives: 09 Nismo Rep Power: 15	135 is fast and fun, twin turbo power, you can't mess with that, but overall styling and drivability, Nismo wins. Almost went back to my Lotus roots, but Im aging and as a DD, glad I went Nismo. Also like the fact production is only 500 a year....

09-08-2010, 07:34 PM	#11 (permalink)
fuct A True Z Fanatic Join Date: May 2009 Location: Sugar Land Posts: 3,692 Drives: 97' Ranger :) Rep Power: 24	How do I have nismo 517 if they are only making 500??????

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