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Nissan Z Nismo VS Toyota GR Supra: Which is better?
Nissan has released a YouTube video showcasing a new version of the Z sports car, tentatively named the Nissan Nismo Z. The video features three-time Formula Drift champion Chris Forsberg performing impressive drifts. Cosmetic updates include new wheels, a redesigned spoiler, an attractive front bumper, and distinctive red accents. The Nismo version may also feature new Recaro bucket seats. Toyota’s GR Supra stands out in the automaker’s lineup as a high-performance model. Although it shares its foundation with the BMW Z4, the Supra has its distinct appeal. It offers rear-wheel drive and the choice between an eight-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission. The interior draws inspiration from BMW, providing a comfortable space for two adults. The Supra excels in sharp handling and responsive power, making it ideal for agile driving rather than long highway trips.
| Nissan Z Nismo | Toyota GR Supra | |
| Dimensions | 172.4 in x 72.6 in x 51.8 in (est) | 172.5 in x 73.0 in x 50.9 in |
| Engine | 3.0L twin-turbo V6 | 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 |
| Horsepower | 500 hp (est) | 382 hp |
| Torque | NA | 368 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | ≤ 4.3 sec | 3.9 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | ≤ 9.8 sec | 9.6 sec |
| Top-Speed | ≥ 155 mph | 161 mph |
Nissan Z Nismo
Engine, Power & Performance
The Nissan Z, much like its powerful sibling, the GT-R, boasts a twin-turbocharged V-6 engine. However, unlike the GT-R’s ferocious 565-hp 3.8-liter engine, the Z is equipped with a 400-hp 3.0-liter engine sourced from the Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400. It offers the choice between a six-speed manual and a nine-speed automatic transmission. Nissan remains committed to rear-wheel drive exclusively for the Z. The turbocharged six-cylinder engine provides the Z with impressive acceleration, although the manual variant takes 4.5 seconds to reach 60 mph, placing it slightly behind the Supra. On the other hand, the Z equipped with the nine-speed automatic achieves the 0-60 mph sprint in 4.3 seconds.
Price & Features
The pricing details for the upcoming 2024 Z models have not been disclosed yet. However, looking at the base prices of last year’s lineup, which ranged from $42,085 to $55,085, we anticipate that the NISMO variant will start in the affordable range of low-to-mid $60,000s. Nissan has successfully modernized the Z by equipping it with contemporary features such as an 8.0-inch infotainment display, a 12.3-inch digital gauge display, SiriusXM satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, bringing it up to speed with the technology of the twenty-first century.
Toyota GR Supra
Engine, Power & Performance
Until 2023, all Supra models exclusively featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. However, a welcome change arrived last year when a six-speed manual option was introduced, albeit limited to the optional turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine. On the test track, the 2020 GR Supra 3.0 with the eight-speed automatic showcased remarkable acceleration capabilities, reaching 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds and 100 mph in 9.5 seconds. Opting for the six-speed manual resulted in slightly slower figures of 3.9 seconds and 9.6 seconds, respectively.
Price & Features
While the four-cylinder GR Supra 2.0 may lack some driving excitement, the six-cylinder 3.0 version offers exhilarating acceleration that justifies the additional expense. We recommend passing on the Driver Assist package, as its adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist system can be more bothersome than helpful. Opting for the new six-speed manual transmission, available at the same price as the automatic, is an obvious choice. Additionally, each GR Supra purchase includes a one-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association and a complimentary day at a high-performance driving event. The GR Supra starts at $45,000.