What did you do with your Z today

kenchan · 09-12-2011, 11:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SPOHN

Yea I did that, for more of a piece of mind

Alchemy · 09-12-2011, 11:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SPOHN

I did a full inspection of my car today to get ready for my track day at Z nationals. I actually found that two 19mm nut/ bolt that holds the coilover in place at the control arm (front) was very loose. On both sides at that. There's no doubt I didn't leave them like that last time I adjusted them. So I defiantly torqued them down to spec + some. I'll check them again this weekend.

Wow, makes me wanna go over my suspension to see if anything has loosened since I installed my Swifts. Sounds like you are ready to hit the track Spohn. Z nationals, now thats gonna be a blast!!!!

Red__Zed · 09-12-2011, 11:08 AM

G2Z--
*
Posting from a phone, so please excuse me for being brief. I wil try to post a more full review later on, once I've gotten in more time with* the mustang.
*
*
Driving Experience: The Mustang definitely feels (and is) a lot bigger. The most obvious thing to me is how freaking WIDE the thing is. There's a lot of room in the interior too, which is nice. The seating position is also higher than the Z, and there is thankfully enough headroom that I can finally fit in with a helmet on! There is a notably more body movement, although I am comparing to a ride on swifts...don't really remember the ride on the stock springs, though I am pretty sure the Mustang is still looser. Once you get past that, though, the ride is incredible. There is a ton of grip, and it handles pretty much anything you throw at it. Part of this, of course, is attributable to the tires...not sure exactly how much.
*
One of my favorite things is the driving dynamic. The Mustang is set up to ride a lot more neutral than the Z, which just PUSHES all day long. If you take your Z to the limit, unless you absolutely wrench the steering wheel, the front goes out first. With the mustang, all 4 tires go out at the limit. It requires a bit more skill and concentration to drive at the limit (which you shouldn't ever be doing on road), but makes it a lot more fun (and faster).
Having a couple of settings for sport mode (at least on the brembo cars) is pretty cool too. There is full-on traction control, sport mode, and traction control off. When I hit the twisties, I put it on sport mode, and it lets me have fun without getting in too much trouble if I mess up.
*
The Mustang's manners on the highway are also pretty impressive. The 2012's have 3 steering modes, Comfort, Standard, and Sport. I don't think the comfort is even needed, I pretty much run sport all the time-- and I think the car still behaves better on the highway than the Z (although it has been a while since I've driven a Z without aggressive alignment specs). The turn in is a little bit slower as a result, although again, I am remembering the 0* toe setup on my Z, which turns in significantly quicker than the stock setup.
*
One of the big experiences that sealed the deal for me was riding along with m4a1mustang on the dragon in his 5.0. He was able to run the road quicker than most of the Z's, and from inside the cabin, it didn't really feel like there was much drama. The live rear axle stayed in check, and while the suspension might feel a bit underdamped, it works great. The car is VERY fast on pretty much any back road, and obviously in a straight line.
*
The power and power delivery are both super impressive. There is power everywhere, and gobs of it. This isn't new to anyone though, so no need to beat a dead horse. The engine sounds amazing on the 5.0 though. Even with the stock exhaust it is absolutely invigorating to hear the engine rip-- made me realize how lame the VQ sounded, even with the Invidia. I'll post up some vids, and M4a1 has some from ZdayZ worth checking out too.
*
The transmission/clutch get lambasted by some people, but from a feel perspective they are far better than those in the Z. My wife was driving the 5.0 after we traded in the Z, and commented that the Z's transmission felt like the old crappy Mustang transmissions, and the Mustang's felt like you'd expect the Z too-- which pretty much sums up how I feel about it.
*
Interior: I got the GT Prem, the leather seats are nice. Very comfy, but you still won't slide all over the place in them. The instrument cluster is kinda love/hate. I think the retro look is cool, but I did prefer the Z's cluster. Shaker 500 is fine. I'll probably swap the stereo at some point. SYNC is amazing though. Integrates FAR better with my phone than the Z's setup ever did. I do miss my navi, but that's not a straight comparison. Kinda cool that you can get turn-by-turn directions on the non-nav Mustang, though I think you have to be on the phone

*
Having a backseat is nice. I wouldn't want to ride in it, but it's nice that it is there just in case.
*
Changing the dash/lighting/whatever colors is cool, but mostly a gimmick. At least you aren't stuck with something, although the radio isn't adjustable to match the rest of the lighting.
*
Exterior: The Z looks better IMO, but the 5.0 has a look I really like. The paint is miles better on the 5.0. Besides the paint, this is pretty much subjective.
*
Brakes: My Z didn't have the sport package, but I've driven several with it. Subjectively, I like the feel of the Brembo's more. Objectively, I haven't tested enough to provide any meaningful data, but I think the Mustang brakes would compare favorably. Definitely spring for the Brembo package if you get the car-- the suspension tweaks and the brake performance are well worth it IMO.
*
*
*
Cliff Notes:
*
Looks: Z -- even though this is subjective, I don't think anyone in their right mind prefers the mustang's look
Exterior Quality: Paint on the mustang is FAR better. I had one of the best examples of SR Z paint I've seen, and the Mustang is still far better
Interior: Push. Z looks marginally cleaner, quality about the same. Back seats might make this a Mustang win if you need them
Highway manners: Mustang, no question
Backroad fun: Very close, and depends on the dynamic you prefer. I'd pick the mustang though.
Turn-in: Z, at least based on my setup (0* toe, 2.2* front camber). I think the Z is still slightly better than the stang stock for stock though
Power: Mustang, in every respect
LSD: The clutch-type diff in the stang embarasses the VLSD in the Z all day.
Brakes: Stang, by feel alone
Transmission: Mustang
Dynamic: Mustang is far more neutral
Chassis: I think the Z has a slight edge here. Very stiff and solid. Hard to tell with the differing suspension, etc.
*
*
I'd be happy to answer any specific questions you have.
*

kenchan · 09-12-2011, 11:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Red__Zed

*
I'd be happy to answer any specific questions you have.
*

you going to change your handle from Red_Zed to Red_Neck?

Alchemy · 09-12-2011, 11:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kenchan

you going to change your handle from Red_Zed to Red_Neck?

dammit why didnt I think of that!

kenchan · 09-12-2011, 11:11 AM

juruki- no pict of your girl driving? i got excited and then felt denied.

sure your car looks nice and all, but...

mt tam- nice cases!

FromG2Z · 09-12-2011, 11:58 AM

Thanks for info Red... I think that was a very fair assessment. I have to agree with u on tranny comments. The marblesinacan sound our zs make is fairly annoying. I keep worrying it will fall apart. I much appreciate ur comment on the stang interior, but what i found very intriguing is the comment on engine sound. I love the sound of my z with invidias!!! But then again, I haven't heard or driven a 5.0 up close and personal.

Lastly the back seats are what keeps me thinking

As far as z action, non today and non yesterday... Was too busy watching football all day. I might was her tonight or tomorrow.

Alchemy · 09-12-2011, 12:18 PM

So I guess it wont be long until I see a WHAT DID YOU DO W THE MUSTANG YOU TRADED YOUR Z FOR TODAY thread.

onzedge · 09-12-2011, 12:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alchemy

So I guess it wont be long until I see a WHAT DID YOU DO W THE MUSTANG YOU TRADED YOUR Z FOR TODAY thread.

Alchemy · 09-12-2011, 12:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FromG2Z

Thanks for info Red... I think that was a very fair assessment. I have to agree with u on granny comments. The marblesinacan sound our zs make is fairly annoying. I keep worrying it will fall apart. I much appreciate ur comment on the stang interior, but what i found very intriguing is the comment on engine sound. I love the sound of my z with invidias!!! But then again, I haven't heard or driven a 5.0 up close and personal.

Lastly the back seats are what keeps me thinking

As far as z action, non today and non yesterday... Was too busy watching football all day. I might was her tonight or tomorrow.

Im assuming you meant tranny comments. I dont think Red made any granny comments in his post, lol.

Red__Zed · 09-12-2011, 12:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FromG2Z

Thanks for info Red... I think that was a very fair assessment. I have to agree with u on granny comments. The marblesinacan sound our zs make is fairly annoying. I keep worrying it will fall apart. I much appreciate ur comment on the stang interior, but what i found very intriguing is the comment on engine sound. I love the sound of my z with invidias!!! But then again, I haven't heard or driven a 5.0 up close and personal.

Lastly the back seats are what keeps me thinking

As far as z action, non today and non yesterday... Was too busy watching football all day. I might was her tonight or tomorrow.

Yeah, I still think the invidia is about as good as you can get out of a vq37, the engine just has a very 'flat' sound, and it's not very dynamic throughout the rev range.

FromG2Z · 09-12-2011, 12:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alchemy

So I guess it wont be long until I see a WHAT DID YOU DO W THE MUSTANG YOU TRADED YOUR Z FOR TODAY thread.

Funny but so true.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alchemy

Im assuming you meant tranny comments. I dont think Red made any granny comments in his post, lol.

LOL sorry but yes, I fixed that

Quote:

Originally Posted by Red__Zed

Yeah, I still think the invidia is about as good as you can get out of a vq37, the engine just has a very 'flat' sound, and it's not very dynamic throughout the rev range.

I agree. At about 7k rpms or more, it starts to grate

but sounds great everywhere else.

Nick911sc · 09-12-2011, 12:25 PM

Red I'm glad to hear you've found a car that you're happy with. Hopefully you'll stick around the forum still.

SPOHN · 09-12-2011, 12:31 PM

Damn Red I'm shocked. You just got wheels for your Z. Did you have any parts left over?

Hope you stay around? If not I'll miss your funny a$$ comments.

Red__Zed · 09-12-2011, 12:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SPOHN

Damn Red I'm shocked. You just got wheels for your Z. Did you have any parts left over?

Hope you stay around? If not I'll miss your funny a$$ comments.

I will still be around...trolling in my 5.0, if you will.

I'm down to some muteki lug nuts and a cover that are up in the classifieds, plus stock exhaust and springs. Sold pretty much everything else.

09-12-2011, 11:58 AM	#7 (permalink)
FromG2Z A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: Fields of Opportunities Posts: 1,406 Drives: '12 5.0, kona, 6MT Rep Power: 18	Thanks for info Red... I think that was a very fair assessment. I have to agree with u on tranny comments. The marblesinacan sound our zs make is fairly annoying. I keep worrying it will fall apart. I much appreciate ur comment on the stang interior, but what i found very intriguing is the comment on engine sound. I love the sound of my z with invidias!!! But then again, I haven't heard or driven a 5.0 up close and personal. Lastly the back seats are what keeps me thinking As far as z action, non today and non yesterday... Was too busy watching football all day. I might was her tonight or tomorrow. __________________ 2012 5.0 GT Prem, Kona Blue, 6MT, HID, Brembo, 3.73 -- Ordered: 9/20/11, Born on: 10/20/11, Delivered 11/15/11"Marilyn" GT500 mufflers/flaps, MGW shifter, FRPP K springs, BMR panhard bar, Boss coil covers, 3DC spoiler, Llumar Tint (35% and 20%), 3M ClearBra Last edited by FromG2Z; 09-12-2011 at 12:51 PM.

09-12-2011, 12:18 PM	#8 (permalink)
Alchemy A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Jersey Age: 45 Posts: 4,855 Drives: to acquire tickets Rep Power: 3525	So I guess it wont be long until I see a WHAT DID YOU DO W THE MUSTANG YOU TRADED YOUR Z FOR TODAY thread. __________________ Ryan 314WHP \| 260LB-FT \| STILLEN \| KONI \| SWIFT \| STOPTECH \| Z1 \| PROJECT MU \| CNT \| UPREV \| FORGESTAR \| BRIDGESTONE \| PWJDM \| ENEOS \| MOTUL

09-12-2011, 12:31 PM	#14 (permalink)
SPOHN A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Covington, GA Age: 46 Posts: 14,844 Drives: Waiting on next Z Rep Power: 222	Damn Red I'm shocked. You just got wheels for your Z. Did you have any parts left over? Hope you stay around? If not I'll miss your funny a$$ comments. __________________

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Switch to Linear Mode Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode

Similar Threads
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
Got Z? I did today!	dharvison	New 370Z Owner	17	12-14-2011 04:45 PM
Saw a GTR today	bigaudiofanat	The Lounge (Off Topic)	30	07-15-2011 05:14 PM
Today was the day!	NewYorkJon34	New 370Z Owner	4	06-23-2009 03:03 PM
Just got it Today 6/14/09 :D!!!!	COD4	New 370Z Owner	15	06-21-2009 04:22 PM
New as of today	prodigyz	New 370Z Owner	1	04-14-2009 12:42 AM

09-12-2011, 11:08 AM	#3 (permalink)
Red__Zed A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: window seat Posts: 28,940 Drives: Mostly on two wheels Rep Power: 120	G2Z-- * Posting from a phone, so please excuse me for being brief. I wil try to post a more full review later on, once I've gotten in more time with* the mustang. * * Driving Experience: The Mustang definitely feels (and is) a lot bigger. The most obvious thing to me is how freaking WIDE the thing is. There's a lot of room in the interior too, which is nice. The seating position is also higher than the Z, and there is thankfully enough headroom that I can finally fit in with a helmet on! There is a notably more body movement, although I am comparing to a ride on swifts...don't really remember the ride on the stock springs, though I am pretty sure the Mustang is still looser. Once you get past that, though, the ride is incredible. There is a ton of grip, and it handles pretty much anything you throw at it. Part of this, of course, is attributable to the tires...not sure exactly how much. * One of my favorite things is the driving dynamic. The Mustang is set up to ride a lot more neutral than the Z, which just PUSHES all day long. If you take your Z to the limit, unless you absolutely wrench the steering wheel, the front goes out first. With the mustang, all 4 tires go out at the limit. It requires a bit more skill and concentration to drive at the limit (which you shouldn't ever be doing on road), but makes it a lot more fun (and faster). Having a couple of settings for sport mode (at least on the brembo cars) is pretty cool too. There is full-on traction control, sport mode, and traction control off. When I hit the twisties, I put it on sport mode, and it lets me have fun without getting in too much trouble if I mess up. * The Mustang's manners on the highway are also pretty impressive. The 2012's have 3 steering modes, Comfort, Standard, and Sport. I don't think the comfort is even needed, I pretty much run sport all the time-- and I think the car still behaves better on the highway than the Z (although it has been a while since I've driven a Z without aggressive alignment specs). The turn in is a little bit slower as a result, although again, I am remembering the 0* toe setup on my Z, which turns in significantly quicker than the stock setup. * One of the big experiences that sealed the deal for me was riding along with m4a1mustang on the dragon in his 5.0. He was able to run the road quicker than most of the Z's, and from inside the cabin, it didn't really feel like there was much drama. The live rear axle stayed in check, and while the suspension might feel a bit underdamped, it works great. The car is VERY fast on pretty much any back road, and obviously in a straight line. * The power and power delivery are both super impressive. There is power everywhere, and gobs of it. This isn't new to anyone though, so no need to beat a dead horse. The engine sounds amazing on the 5.0 though. Even with the stock exhaust it is absolutely invigorating to hear the engine rip-- made me realize how lame the VQ sounded, even with the Invidia. I'll post up some vids, and M4a1 has some from ZdayZ worth checking out too. * The transmission/clutch get lambasted by some people, but from a feel perspective they are far better than those in the Z. My wife was driving the 5.0 after we traded in the Z, and commented that the Z's transmission felt like the old crappy Mustang transmissions, and the Mustang's felt like you'd expect the Z too-- which pretty much sums up how I feel about it. * Interior: I got the GT Prem, the leather seats are nice. Very comfy, but you still won't slide all over the place in them. The instrument cluster is kinda love/hate. I think the retro look is cool, but I did prefer the Z's cluster. Shaker 500 is fine. I'll probably swap the stereo at some point. SYNC is amazing though. Integrates FAR better with my phone than the Z's setup ever did. I do miss my navi, but that's not a straight comparison. Kinda cool that you can get turn-by-turn directions on the non-nav Mustang, though I think you have to be on the phone * Having a backseat is nice. I wouldn't want to ride in it, but it's nice that it is there just in case. * Changing the dash/lighting/whatever colors is cool, but mostly a gimmick. At least you aren't stuck with something, although the radio isn't adjustable to match the rest of the lighting. * Exterior: The Z looks better IMO, but the 5.0 has a look I really like. The paint is miles better on the 5.0. Besides the paint, this is pretty much subjective. * Brakes: My Z didn't have the sport package, but I've driven several with it. Subjectively, I like the feel of the Brembo's more. Objectively, I haven't tested enough to provide any meaningful data, but I think the Mustang brakes would compare favorably. Definitely spring for the Brembo package if you get the car-- the suspension tweaks and the brake performance are well worth it IMO. * * * Cliff Notes: * Looks: Z -- even though this is subjective, I don't think anyone in their right mind prefers the mustang's look Exterior Quality: Paint on the mustang is FAR better. I had one of the best examples of SR Z paint I've seen, and the Mustang is still far better Interior: Push. Z looks marginally cleaner, quality about the same. Back seats might make this a Mustang win if you need them Highway manners: Mustang, no question Backroad fun: Very close, and depends on the dynamic you prefer. I'd pick the mustang though. Turn-in: Z, at least based on my setup (0* toe, 2.2* front camber). I think the Z is still slightly better than the stang stock for stock though Power: Mustang, in every respect LSD: The clutch-type diff in the stang embarasses the VLSD in the Z all day. Brakes: Stang, by feel alone Transmission: Mustang Dynamic: Mustang is far more neutral Chassis: I think the Z has a slight edge here. Very stiff and solid. Hard to tell with the differing suspension, etc. * * I'd be happy to answer any specific questions you have. *

09-12-2011, 11:11 AM	#6 (permalink)
kenchan A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: N/A Posts: 76,801 Drives: N/A Rep Power: 141521	juruki- no pict of your girl driving? i got excited and then felt denied. sure your car looks nice and all, but... mt tam- nice cases!

09-12-2011, 12:25 PM	#13 (permalink)
Nick911sc A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Long Island, New York Posts: 1,698 Drives: 2010 Nissan GT-R Rep Power: 21	Red I'm glad to hear you've found a car that you're happy with. Hopefully you'll stick around the forum still.