What can we expect from 2012 Z?

Jeffblue

a lot of the newer v8's aren't that much heavier than v6's. these aren't cast iron blocks. they are aluminum. we're talking like 40-70lbs difference in a vehicle that weighs over 3000lbs. yes. weight distribution is key, but the v8's nowadays aren't these giant monstrous heavy slabs of metal.

wolf370z

I guess a 400 hp Z is now magically going to be close to the same "speed" (whatever that means?) As the 530hp GT-R?

I think a 560z would be a wonderful addition to Nissans lineup...

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Good drivers just drive.

ImportConvert

BMW M3's V8 weighs less than their previous I6.

SkyZ

lmao id like to see some "honda" tuning. super high rpms =]. 9k redline on a tougher stronger motor. as well as engine snappier response. lighter internal parts. just a slight power increase is all thats really needed, bump it up to 360-400?

wolf370z

Further proof that there's nothing wrong with a v8 and they shouldn't have a problem making it work with the car. It's a logical step in my opinion, Nissan is starting to reach the limits of a normal V6's displacement. Plus, such a big, NA v6 is just sort of a weird thing. It's not small enough displacement to where it needs a turbo in order to make up for the lack of displacement, but at the same time it's not going to produce as much torque as an NA v8 would. Don't get me wrong, I love the VQ37, it performs EXTREMELY well and makes a lot of power for an NA v6. But at the same time the VQ37 seems a bit out of place in a performance-oriented vehicle, imo.

So from 240z to 260z to 280z/x to 300zx (.2L increments), to 350z (.5L) to 370z (.2), I suspect the next logical step is 390z? But that just sounds weird and not as "catchy" as the other Z models. That's why I'm voting for a 400zx or 420z, or even 560z. They already have the 5.6L developed why not use it?

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Good drivers just drive.

ImportConvert

I don't think the displacement is such an issue. A V8 is just better, and easier to make more power with. You can only flow so much through a set of heads, and if you add 2 more pistons, you get more headflow. Larger valves just waste more space in a head after a certain point, and you need another cylinder rather than just increasing bore/enlarging valves and wasting space. An engine is just an air pump.

wolf370z

Yes, that was the whole reason why I was suggesting Nissan has to go with either a v8 or an F.I. v6 for more power. There'll be a point where it's inefficient to use an NA v6 for their power goals. Plus, you can't replicate the feel or sound of a v8. Not saying the 370z doesn't sound good, IT DOES! But you're bonkers if you think the VQ37 sounds better than ANY LSX engine...

BMW went the right direction with the m3. Now they just need to start going in a new direction with the price

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Good drivers just drive.

ImportConvert

They are. I6TT. Price? Not so much, lol.

jaycz

I would love to see a V6 with direct injection and turbo much like the 365hp V6 that Ford will be putting in the F150.

shadoquad

I want to see the Z as more of a station wagon with monster truck tires and a pitiful 4-cylinder, only compact... I guess I want to see a juke. lol jk

Sibze

That would be soooo cool. But;

I want to see a V12 700 HP...

GZ3

**this just in from nissan: A new cup holder for 2012...that is all

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09 GT-R
12' 370Z 7AT HANDED DOWN
12'+13' 5.0 SOLD

shadoquad

rofl damn, I'd better trade in my 2010, because I'm always holding my cup while using the cup holder for someone else's drink. Finally, I can drive more responsibly! Thank you, Nissan, you've read my letters.

GZ3

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09 GT-R
12' 370Z 7AT HANDED DOWN
12'+13' 5.0 SOLD

spearfish25

What...you don't find the cup recesses in the doors very helpful?

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2013 Cadillac V-Wagon, RIP Z