I had always been drawn to cars that carried a bit of personality and character, the ones that didn’t just get you from point A to point B but made every drive an experience. The 2020 Nissan 370Z NISMO and the Toyota 86 TRD both fit this description perfectly. I remember the day I set out to test drive these two legends; it was a sunny afternoon, and the excitement was palpable.
My first stop was at the local Nissan dealership, where the 370Z NISMO awaited. From the moment I laid eyes on it, I was struck by its aggressive stance and bold lines. The NISMO variant takes the already iconic 370Z and adds a layer of performance and refinement that’s hard to ignore. I slid into the driver’s seat, and it felt like it was made for me—every control was intuitively placed, and the snug bucket seats embraced me firmly.
Turning the key, the V6 engine roared to life with a guttural growl. The power was immediate, and as I pulled out of the dealership, I could feel the raw energy coursing through the car. The handling was precise; the steering was sharp, and the suspension felt tight, holding the car firmly on the road. I pushed it a bit on the twisty back roads, and the NISMO’s limited-slip differential and sport-tuned suspension made sure that the car remained composed, even when I pushed it hard.
The drive was exhilarating, but there was something more to it. The 370Z NISMO had this inherent capability of making every drive feel special. The engine’s power was more than adequate, and the exhaust note was absolutely intoxicating. It was clear that this car was built with a focus on driving pleasure.
After returning the 370Z NISMO, I headed to the Toyota dealership to meet the Toyota 86 TRD. The Toyota 86 has always been known for its balance and driving dynamics, and the TRD version is a further enhancement of that formula. Unlike the Nissan, the Toyota 86 TRD had a more understated presence, with sleek lines and a more modest appearance. It felt lighter and more nimble, which is exactly what I expected.
The moment I started driving the 86 TRD, I was impressed by how agile it felt. The car’s lower center of gravity was immediately noticeable, and it was incredibly responsive to inputs. The manual transmission was a joy to use; each shift was crisp, and the gear ratios felt perfectly suited for spirited driving. The car seemed to dance through corners, and the rear-wheel drive provided a playful, yet controlled, driving experience.
On the open road, the Toyota 86 TRD demonstrated its capabilities. It didn’t have the raw power of the 370Z, but it made up for it with its precise handling and overall driving engagement. The TRD package added a few performance tweaks, including a sportier suspension setup and some aerodynamic enhancements, which contributed to a more connected and engaging driving experience.
What stood out was how both cars, despite their different approaches, managed to capture the essence of what makes driving fun. The 370Z NISMO offered a more brute-force experience, with a powerful engine and a more aggressive demeanor. On the other hand, the Toyota 86 TRD provided a more balanced and playful driving experience, emphasizing agility and precision over outright power.
As I compared my notes and reflections from each drive, it became clear that the choice between the two wasn’t just about performance on paper but also about what kind of driving experience I was looking for. The 370Z NISMO was the ultimate choice for someone craving raw power and a thrilling drive with every push of the pedal. The Toyota 86 TRD, however, would appeal to those who find joy in a more balanced, responsive, and spirited driving experience.
Ultimately, both cars showcased how different recipes could result in a similar end goal: making driving an unforgettable experience. The 370Z NISMO was like a rock concert—loud, powerful, and exhilarating, while the Toyota 86 TRD was more like a well-crafted jazz performance—smooth, engaging, and full of finesse. Both were fantastic in their own right, and the decision came down to what kind of driving adventure I wanted to embark on.