After a long, long wait, the new generation of Z finally arrives in Mexico The model that, together with the GT-R, shows that Nissan not only makes durable and reliable cars, But also with the stamp of sportsmanship. This demonstration by Nissan of making high-performance cars did not start recently or in the 1980s or 1990s, as other volume brands did, but dates back more than half a century.
Both the GT-R and Z, both front-engine, rear-wheel-drive coupes, have been around since the 1960s, always attracting attention for design and performance.
In the case of the Z, it must be added that it is a decently priced sports car considering what similar mileage models cost, only from a luxury brand. Thus you could say that this sports car has three Bs: Nice, nice and cheap, although nice, but rather accessible.
For the price, is this the best sports car?
Developed for sports enthusiasts, this model which was born in 1969 under the name 240Z has evolved in all aspects including its namesake, as most of the generation changes are accompanied by the displacement of the Z motor. Which is to say, when this car was born it had a 2.4-liter engine, so the 240, then the 260, which had a 2.6-liter engine, And thus the displacement and power increased until it reached the previous generation 370Z.
Now, because the most recent line has a 3.0-liter engine, but with more power than before, the sequence is lost, although the solution could have been the 400Z, referring to this car’s 400 horsepower, however, Nissan decided at this juncture to just call it the Z.
Apart from having more power, as is customary in generation changes of this model, this time around, it is a tribute to the iconic design. Although it was adapted for the modern age, the old style is present from the angle it is viewed.
To be the best sports car in its class especially with Toyota Supra and Ford Mustang The Nissan Z not only has an attractive design and about 70 horsepower more than its predecessor, But better driving dynamics, thanks to the work done in engineering.
Although it has the same platform as its predecessor, there are significant improvements to the chassis to achieve greater rigidity in weight distribution and thus better balance, as well as to the suspension and braking system.
What is your opinion about the handling?
All of these refinements were made with the goal of achieving precise handling at high speeds, whether in a straight line or in tight turns. In practice, go that these improvements are considered more than its predecessor. It is now much more competitive than before as it gets excellent acceleration and decelerating response More maneuverability on winding roads, although this is a car for day-to-day use due to the work of the shock absorbers.
Because Nissan knows this is a car for people who want to drive with three pedals, the increasingly rare manual transmission keeps the Z fresh and even more fun to drive on the track or in the car. Crooked road and well, An optional nine-speed automatic transmission makes things more comfortable in everyday driving.
In addition to accelerating from zero in an explosive manner, this Nissan Z has a pleasant response when you have to slow down and then pick up speed, or when you have to engage. Also worth noting is that despite being a rear-wheel drive car, it handles with confidence It shows great agility as it comes equipped with a limited slip differential.
Inside, the Z is well equipped and comfortable, and the seats are supportive and well firm, while the infotainment system is easy to use, however, According to its price, the quality of plastic on the dashboard and door panels is not going to match. Nevertheless, the cost-price ratio is one of its features.
How does it all add up?
In short, the 2023 Nissan Z is fun to drive, has a powerful engine, drives with absolute precision, and sports a timeless and attractive design. It’s like having a 240Z, but taken in the future.
