I remember the day vividly, the kind of day that any car enthusiast would mark on their calendar. It was a brisk autumn morning when I found myself at a local drag strip, a place that had become my second home. I was there for a reason far more exciting than the usual track day routine—this was the day I would finally put two of Nissan’s most iconic sports cars to the ultimate test. The 2023 Nissan Z and the Nissan 370Z NISMO, two legends of their own time, were about to face off in a drag race and a series of lap times. The stakes were high, and the excitement was palpable.
As the sun began to rise, I could see the gleam of the 2023 Nissan Z parked proudly beside the 370Z NISMO. The new Z had been making waves since its release, with its sleek, modern design and powerful twin-turbo V6 engine. It was clear that Nissan had put a lot of thought into this revival, blending heritage with cutting-edge technology. In contrast, the 370Z NISMO, a refined version of the already iconic 370Z, stood as a testament to Nissan’s dedication to performance. With its aggressive styling and finely tuned suspension, it was designed to cater to the purists and performance enthusiasts alike.
I slipped into the driver’s seat of the 2023 Nissan Z first. The interior was a blend of retro-inspired elements and modern sophistication, featuring a digital gauge cluster and a commanding center console. The twin-turbo V6 roared to life with a satisfying growl, and as I eased onto the track, I could feel the responsive nature of the car. It was clear from the start that this was not just a stylish update but a serious contender.
The drag race was set to begin. The 370Z NISMO, with its naturally aspirated V6 engine, had a reputation for being a formidable force. Its engine, though not turbocharged, was well-regarded for its smooth power delivery and high-revving capabilities. As both cars lined up at the start, I could feel the adrenaline coursing through me. The lights flashed, and the roar of the engines filled the air.
As soon as the lights turned green, the 2023 Nissan Z surged forward with impressive speed. The twin-turbo engine provided instant power, and I could feel the G-forces pressing me back into my seat. The acceleration was brutal, and within seconds, I was racing ahead of the 370Z NISMO. The NISMO, while quick in its own right, struggled to keep up with the raw power of the newer Z. The drag race was over almost as soon as it began, with the 2023 Nissan Z clearly outpacing its predecessor.
But the drag race was only part of the story. Next up were the lap times. This was where the true character of each car would be revealed. The track was a mix of tight corners and fast straights, a perfect playground for testing handling and braking performance. First up was the 370Z NISMO. The car felt alive on the track, its suspension absorbing the bumps and keeping the car planted through the corners. The naturally aspirated engine sang a beautiful tune as it climbed through the rev range, and the manual transmission allowed for precise gear changes. It was a joy to drive, offering a connection to the road that felt almost analog in today’s digital age.
When it was time to swap over to the 2023 Nissan Z, I was curious to see how the new model would handle the track. The modern Z felt different, with its advanced suspension system and electronic aids providing a different driving experience. The new Z’s turbocharged engine offered a different kind of power delivery, with a more refined and controlled burst of speed compared to the raw, unfiltered sensation of the 370Z NISMO. The handling was sharp, and the car felt agile through the corners. However, there was a distinct difference in the driving experience, with the 2023 Z leaning more towards a refined, high-tech feel rather than the pure, visceral engagement of the NISMO.
After a full day of testing, I took a moment to reflect on the results. The 2023 Nissan Z had clearly outperformed the 370Z NISMO in the drag race, showcasing its superior acceleration and modern engineering. On the track, however, the experience was more nuanced. The 370Z NISMO offered a more connected and raw driving experience, while the 2023 Z delivered a blend of performance and technology that catered to a different kind of driver.
Each car had its strengths and unique characteristics. The 2023 Nissan Z was a testament to Nissan’s ability to innovate and evolve, providing a thrilling driving experience with modern amenities and advanced technology. The 370Z NISMO, on the other hand, stood as a tribute to the brand’s heritage, offering a pure and engaging driving experience that resonated with the enthusiasts who appreciated the essence of the Z-car lineage.
As I left the track, I couldn’t help but appreciate the evolution of Nissan’s sports cars. The 2023 Nissan Z and the 370Z NISMO represented different eras and philosophies of performance, each with its own merits and charm. It was a reminder of why I love this hobby so much—the endless exploration of automotive excellence and the joy of experiencing cars that push the boundaries of performance and engineering.