New Z car [Archive] - FreshAlloy.com Forums

**DONOTDELETE**

02-17-2000, 07:36 PM

Our latest prelim info from our source...
A 3.5L V-6 with 350bhp and rear wheel drive for under $30,000 USD. Can Nissan do it?

Nope, if it's that powerful, the price is gonna be too high, like the 300ZX. It's a beautiful GT coupe, but few people can afford the price 40k plus.

My bet is that Nissan is gonna do what Mazda did with the Miata-Fun to drive, elegant looking and not too powerful, kinda like the Datsun 240Z. Fun and affordable would sell very well, while leave Infiniti with the expensive version.

[This message has been edited by Fairlady Z (edited 02-17-2000).]

GTR

02-17-2000, 07:49 PM

anyone that knows me knows that im a supra-boy at heart and a gtr-boy by faith.

-The supra turbo-
f/r, 6 speed, 3.0 l 320 hp, tt, sleek/elegant styling, around 50k+, U.S. discontinued

-Skyline GTR vspec-
f/4, 6 speed, 2.6 l 280 ps, tt, beastish (good) styling, around 90k+ (to import), not officially available in the U.S. from nissan

-3000GT vr4-
f/r?, 6 speed?, 3.0l tt 325 hp?, old yet effective/aggressive stlying, 40k+?, d/c'd by mitsubishi in the US

-NSX-
f/r?, 6 speed?, 3.2l 320 hp?, aging (but still good)/ferrari'ish styling, 90k+, still in the US

-New Z-
f/r, 6 speed?, 3.5l 350 hp, fresh/ slightly retro styling, 30k-, US AVAILABILITY!!!!

i thirst for a car like this. all that for under 30,000... make turbos and other aftermarket parts for this car, and i think we've got a winner. make it about 25k and maybe a lil dumbed downed horsepower-wise, and i say we got a new car for the next generation of "rice boys" that yearn for more than that dohc vtec four banger.

**DONOTDELETE**

02-17-2000, 09:24 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>
Nope, if it's that powerful, the price is gonna be too high, like the 300ZX...My bet is that Nissan is gonna do what Mazda did with the Miata-Fun to drive, elegant looking and not too powerful, kinda like the Datsun 240Z. Fun and affordable would sell very well, while leave Infiniti with the expensive version.
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I agree that even if the new Z was "only" 220 bhp but still had RWD, well designed suspension, and was gorgeously designed, it still would be sucessful as long as the price was affordable. But if they could make it over the top, then it would drive sales through the roof.

**DONOTDELETE**

02-18-2000, 06:04 AM

If the new Z have over 350 hp, then the cost would be too high for a high price.

The next Z should return to it's Datsun Z root, maybe they should even resurrect the Datsun name!

Nismo

02-18-2000, 07:06 AM

Post deleted by Nismo

**DONOTDELETE**

02-18-2000, 09:30 AM

I once had a dream:
If say the new Z is going to so powerful and $30000, does this mean that they can bring over a $20,000 sylivia?

**DONOTDELETE**

02-18-2000, 12:41 PM

Yeah, I check Nissan's Japanese site, and their trucks are all called DATSUN!!!!!

**DONOTDELETE**

02-18-2000, 04:47 PM

ford makes mustang GT's that i believe have around 300 bhp for less than 30 grand (i think). the nissan Z is much more of a refined sports car than any American pony car so setting the price below 30K with more than 300 horsepower and excellent handling that the Z is known for might be an ambitious task. i'm thinking the Z can probably have a little over 200 horsepower and still be an affordable car. 300 horsepower will probably put it in the price range of the last 300ZX twin turbo--it had 300 horsepower. i'll have to see it to believe it

**DONOTDELETE**

02-18-2000, 05:47 PM

Nissan doesnt need a 350hp super car to beat out the competition. Besides, with those kind of numbers, i would lay money that the price would be to much anyways.

a 200-250 hp rwd car, with a good suspension, and light weight for around 20-25K would sell like hotcakes. look at the competition:

Mitsu- The 3rd gen mitsu, which club DSM isnt even allowing it the club, has lost all its sports appeal and turned into a sport coupe. 205 hp, v6, fwd, 20K-28K for the v6.

Mazda- well...no competition here, in the US anyways...afterall, this sports car territory, with out the rx7, mazda's are just proteges, mpvs, and rebadged ford rangers..i guess you could count the miati, but i think thats a different category, even tho it does fit in this price range..so, 140hp i-4, rwd, 26K

Ford- Rustang..tough contendor (even tho its a piece of junk). the v8 GT has 260hp V8, the classic american name, and goes for 22K-28K..

Chevy- Craparos and the other f-body(fire chicken)..Z28 - 305 (320 for SS) hp v8, another classic name plate, and goes for 21K-30K...too bad its to be discontinued soon, hehe, i cant wait http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/smile.gif

Toyato- The new celica, not a bad car at all, i-4 fwd, 180hp, 19K-23K- but no match for a 200-250 rwd Z

Dodge/Chrysler - normally this is where i would brag about the avenger(i show one, see my site), but unfortunately, the name has been dropped. The new replacement is the Status Sports Coupe. Its mechanically identical to the new eclipse. so, same numbers, same price range (205 hp v6, fwd, 20-28K)

Honda- prelude, integra type r, s2000. s2000 is a bit more, but its a contendor- 240hp i-4, rwd, 34-38K...prelude, 200hp i-4, fwd, 22-26K, but soon to be discontinued....Integra type r, fwd, 195hp i-4, 22-26K

I think thats about it..some of these may not be seen as competitors, but i went through this price range and through the biggger car makers, and this is what i came up with real quick.

I think its obvious, that if nissan can put together a light weight, well tuned suspension, 200-250hp i6 or v6( i want the inline,hehe, dont forget your heritage Z!! http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/wink.gif ) for 20-25K, they will have a winner

the problem that the major japanese sports came into before (3000gt, rx-7, 300zx, supra) wasnt that they were poor cars. just that they costed to much. the reason why the original Z was so succesful, was because it offered a light car, a good looking car, a good engine, good suspension, and kept it affordable. that will be the key!

...and hopefully i'll have a key to a new Z to park next to the restore 78 fairlady 280Z http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/smile.gif..

RyaN 95i-4 www.asog.net/phantom (http://www.asog.net/phantom)

--oh boy that seemed long---

'97 S14 SE Turbo

02-18-2000, 10:14 PM

Damn, that sounds like the FR version of the VQ35DE. Wow, now if I could get my hands on the Cedric/Gloria's VQ30DET's turbo hardware... unless, the z is turboed...

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by noelsaw:
Will Nissan's new Z car have what it takes to be the premiere sports car in the United States or elsewhere in the world for that matter?

Our latest prelim info from our source...
A 3.5L V-6 with over 300bhp and rear wheel drive for under $30,000 USD. Can Nissan do it? Will it be good enough? Tell us your thoughts!

[This message has been edited by noelsaw (edited 02-17-2000).]

[This message has been edited by noelsaw (edited 02-17-2000).]<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

'97 S14 SE Turbo

02-18-2000, 10:17 PM

Did any know for a fact that the Nissan hardbody/Frontier pickup is actually called DATSUN in Japan!!! Yup, it's true

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by Fairlady Z:
If the new Z have over 350 hp, then the cost would be too high for a high price.

The next Z should return to it's Datsun Z root, maybe they should even resurrect the Datsun name!<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

**DONOTDELETE**

02-19-2000, 01:11 AM

i doubt that the new z will have over 300hp!! and cost less than $30k. the old fairlady z had over 300hp and cost much more than $30k. i think a more reasonable one will be the VQ30DE in the maxima w/222hp under the hood. i also think that nissan wasted so much time adopting a new platform for the new z. why not just use the S15 silvia platform?? it's available. one last thing, i hope they put in the super hicas steering system in the new z.

noelsaw

02-19-2000, 09:37 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by STI:
i doubt that the new z will have over 300hp!! and cost less than $30k. the old fairlady z had over 300hp and cost much more than $30k. i think a more reasonable one will be the VQ30DE in the maxima w/222hp under the hood...why not just use the S15 silvia platform?? it's available. one last thing, i hope they put in the super hicas steering system in the new z.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I think Nissan's overall goal these days is to make much more exciting cars through styling and features while reducing their production costs. The new Z will be based on a platform with the global XVL which will be more mass production than the relatively obscure S15. As for super HICAS, I don't think it will be standard on the base Z but an option.

**DONOTDELETE**

02-19-2000, 09:18 PM

From what I have heard, the new z was going to be called the 250Z. Doesn't that mean that it will probably have the VQ25DD. That motor in Japan puts out 210hp which makes it more logical to the under $30,000 pricetag to compete with the eclipse.

'97 S14 SE Turbo

02-20-2000, 07:26 AM

I highly doubt that it will have the VQ25DD. The VQ25DD is a direct gasoline injection engine built for fuel efficiency, not power. Besides, the current VQ25DD configuration is FF only, and we don't want the Z to be a FF platform. If anything, it should be a VQ30DE and up including the VQ30DET or the VQ35DE since the VQ series engine is well recognized as top ten engine for 7 years, a feat not matched by another engine.

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by fengkc:
From what I have heard, the new z was going to be called the 250Z. Doesn't that mean that it will probably have the VQ25DD. That motor in Japan puts out 210hp which makes it more logical to the under $30,000 pricetag to compete with the eclipse.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

**DONOTDELETE**

02-20-2000, 08:24 PM

300hp.

maybe super'd or turbo'd.

I saw a tuner super'd a maxima and made it pretty quick 0-60 round 5.5(give or take) i believe.

Maybe some of you enthusiasts(can't spell) could comment.

I mean a production supercharger shouldn't add too much to the price or they wouldn't put it on the truck, right?

[This message has been edited by ubr900 (edited 02-21-2000).]

[This message has been edited by ubr900 (edited 02-21-2000).]

JonCarson

02-20-2000, 10:34 PM

If Nissan doesn't equip the new Z with either an RB25DET, RB26DE, or of course RB26DETT I'm going to be very disappointed.

Obviously, everyone wants the Z to have 6 cylinders...RB-series engines!

Nissan is going for a retro feel...Inline 6 RB engines!

Everyone wants the Z to have competitive power...RB25DET and RB26DETT are both rated at 280hp!

Nissan wants to keep costs down...both the RB-series engines are in current use by Nissan in their model lineup!

I feel so strongly about this, that I've sent an e-mail to Nissan concerning my views on what I (the consumer) wants the new Z to be.

GTR

02-21-2000, 09:21 AM

doesnt the rb have the problem with the left hand conversions? if it's not just the rb26det, then most likely nissan will go witht he vq series. i also doubt they'd put the rb in the z since its in the skyline already. there's no point having two of your own cars competing with eachother. the rb would be kickass though.

'97 S14 SE Turbo

02-21-2000, 11:57 AM

The LHD conversion is a myth created by people who want one but gave up too easily. Some guy in Europe had his R32 converted to LHD and have prints and conversion information available. (Problem is, got to find that stuff on the web. Don't know his link.)

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by GTR:
doesnt the rb have the problem with the left hand conversions? if it's not just the rb26det, then most likely nissan will go witht he vq series. i also doubt they'd put the rb in the z since its in the skyline already. there's no point having two of your own cars competing with eachother. the rb would be kickass though.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

**DONOTDELETE**

02-21-2000, 12:24 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by carsonjon:
[B]If Nissan doesn't equip the new Z with either an RB25DET, RB26DE, or of course RB26DETT I'm going to be very disappointed.

Obviously, everyone wants the Z to have 6 cylinders...RB-series engines!

Nissan is going for a retro feel...Inline 6 RB engines!

<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Carsonjon, what's wrong with the V6 VQ?

JonCarson

02-21-2000, 01:33 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by htmlcoder:
Carsonjon, what's wrong with the V6 VQ?

<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I don't really know if improvements have been made with the VQ to make it lighter than the VG-series engines, but the VG30DE(TT) is quite a bit heavier than the RB25 or 26 from what I understand

The RB inline configurations don't require the balancing shafts that NISSAN put in the VG engines to make them run so smooth.

At 2.5 and 2.6 liters of displacement, the RB engines have proven themselves more than capable of creating as much, and many times more horsepower than the 3.0 liter VG engines. Although Japanese tuners have just as much access to VG30DE(TT) engines as they do to RB26DE(TT), they always make monster drag cars and such with RB powerplants.

Inline engines are also easier, in my opinion, to work on than V engines.

Lastly; 240, 260, and 280Z cars all had inline six engines. It's a roots thing.

**DONOTDELETE**

02-21-2000, 03:07 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by carsonjon:
I don't really know if improvements have been made with the VQ to make it lighter than the VG-series engines, but the VG30DE(TT) is quite a bit heavier than the RB25 or 26 from what I understand

Lastly; 240, 260, and 280Z cars all had inline six engines. It's a roots thing.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Ahh....
The VQ is an all new design and shares nothing with the VG. Here's something
from Road & Track, June 1994 which can explain the differences much better than I can....

<start>
Does this new focus make the new Maxima a performance lightweight? Hardly. The 1995 Maxima showcases an all-new 3.0 liter V-6 engine, the first of a family of bent sixes (also displacing 2.0 and 2.5 liters) that will power numerous front- and rear-drive Nissans, including the next 300ZX, well into the 21st century.

The Maxima's new 4-cam, 24-valve all-aluminum V-6 is a gem. It replaces both the SOHC 12-valve 160-bhp base engine (around in one form or another since 1983) and the 1994 SE's DOHC 24-valve 190 bhp of the same displacement and shares not a single part with those cast-iron-block V6s.

For starters, it is 108 lb. Lighter than last year's 3.0 liter, helping improve the Maxima's font/rear weight distribution. A 2-stage chain cam drive (which permits use of smaller exhaust-cam sprockets) and cast-aluminum timing-chain cover and oilpan (which incorporate mounts for accessories) make the engine more compact, giving more space to the passenger compartment. Nissan engineers reduced mass of items such as the pistons, crankshaft, rods and flywheel some 17 percent, which when combined with the engine's shorter stroke, makes for easy revving and delightful throttle response. Power-robbing friction is reduced by the use of moly-coated piston skirts and microfinished crankshaft and camshaft surfaces.

Aerodynamic port development keeps intake-charge velocities high through the crossflow head, even at low engine speeds. The V-6 develops an impressive 205 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm, but more important, more 90 percent of that peak torque is available from a lazy 1600 rpm to a freeway-flying 5500. This is one flexible, responsive engine that acquits itself nicely without the aid of variable cam timing or induction tuning. And it's quiet at idle and smooth as silk throughout the rev range, aided by electronically tuned fluid-filled engine-mount technology.
<end>

From my perspective, the Maxima's VQ to this date is one of the best V6 engines in the world and a lot of auto journalists agree. I think if you ever got a chance to drive a 4th or 5th gen Max, you would really, really, really like the engine.

[This message has been edited by htmlcoder (edited 02-21-2000).]

**DONOTDELETE**

02-21-2000, 05:08 PM

I going to have to agree with html coder.

I love my maxima with its vq. The engine is incredible.

I think with the proper transmisson the vq would make one quick z car.

Plus, the more vehicles they use it in, the cheaper it would be for nissan to produce vq's. You looking at 5 vehicles with practically the same engine z/max/i30/qx4/path. It's in the economics.

'97 S14 SE Turbo

02-22-2000, 06:51 AM

In Japan's GT Championship (JGTC), Race teams rip out the VG30DETT in the Z32 and install the SR20DET in it's place. Even some street car tuners rip out the VG30DETT in favor of the SR20DET.

I agree w/ John in that the Z needs the inline six to keep that distinctive hood profile. I love the look of a long hood vehicle. That's why I like my '97 S14's long hood. Most FF drivers don't appreciate that. They are so used to the short hood and the messed up chassis weight balance.

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by carsonjon:

Inline engines are also easier, in my opinion, to work on than V engines.

Lastly; 240, 260, and 280Z cars all had inline six engines. It's a roots thing.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

**DONOTDELETE**

02-22-2000, 12:15 PM

but they might be able to get the v6 behind the axle correct?

I believe that gives a very good weight distro.

[This message has been edited by ubr900 (edited 02-22-2000).]

JonCarson

02-22-2000, 10:42 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by ubr900:
but they might be able to get the v6 behind the axle correct?

I believe that gives a very good weight distro.

[This message has been edited by ubr900 (edited 02-22-2000).]<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

If they are indeed able to get the engine behind the front axle--S2000 style, that would be great for the car's balance.

In response to the Road & Track article posted on the VQ engine; it sounds like the V6 is a real gem. I would still like to see an American market Nissan with the RB26DETT though.

If they bring a true Skyline over, then I'll be content though.

[This message has been edited by carsonjon (edited 02-25-2000).]

**DONOTDELETE**

02-23-2000, 03:37 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by carsonjon:

In response to the Motor Trend article posted on the VQ engine...
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I think you just insulted Road & Track by calling it Motortrend... :-)

JonCarson

02-24-2000, 10:44 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by Yak:
I think you just insulted Road & Track by calling it Motortrend... :-)<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

You're right. I went back and corrected it.

**DONOTDELETE**

02-25-2000, 04:43 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>
The LHD conversion is a myth created by people who want one Some guy in Europe had his R32 converted to LHD and have prints and conversion information available.
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Thats Henri Helantos Skyline. http://www.helan.to/henri/vehicles.htm

Knew him from the Sy/Ty list. Tried to get more info from him , said he was going to send it - never got back to me. Either he doesn't have what he says - or he is very busy.

There are some guys that bought a R33 from us and are going to attempt to make it left hand drive. We have people from Taiwan , Saudi , P.I. , U.S. , and Europe that want a left hand drive GT-R..

**DONOTDELETE**

02-25-2000, 06:34 PM

it looks like that helantos guy may have really done it, possibly. must be nice being a rich european

2HD

02-26-2000, 08:05 AM

Go to Auto Week.com
http://www.autoweek.com/main_news.php3?action=view&articleid=74

theres an article that talks about the new designs for the Z from the US and Japan design studios. It says that they ditched the retro look http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/shocked.gif

**DONOTDELETE**

02-26-2000, 10:27 PM

I think it would be a mistake if they take out the trademark Z long hood and headlights http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/frown.gif

**DONOTDELETE**

02-27-2000, 05:55 PM

why not the vq25 motor as the base engine for the Z? It seem more practical of an engine to keep the price of the car down below $30k. This will allow Nissan to have more than one engine for the car to compete with the likes of the Eclipse/Cougar/Integra to the Boxster/S2000/Z3/CLK.

noelsaw

03-01-2000, 10:47 PM

2HD

03-03-2000, 01:21 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by fengkc:
why not the vq25 motor as the base engine for the Z? It seem more practical of an engine to keep the price of the car down below $30k. This will allow Nissan to have more than one engine for the car to compete with the likes of the Eclipse/Cougar/Integra to the Boxster/S2000/Z3/CLK.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

THATS A GREAT IDEA. http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/smile.gif Having a base Z with the power of the top models from Eclipse/Cougar/Integra would make alot of sense.This would show that the Z is no joke. Then to have the 300hp engine to compete against low end luxury models would cover alot of ground. But if Infiniti is to have a sports car of its own they would have to keep the Z under $30,000.

**DONOTDELETE**

03-05-2000, 12:49 PM

will the new Z have a 6-speed? it shouldn't cost too much for a 6 speed considering that the new celica can be had with one for around 25 grand. considering the fact that toyotas are overpriced, i think nissan can add 2 cylinders to the celica's 4 with a 6 speed for around the same price of 25 G's

GTR

03-05-2000, 08:48 PM

can we have 2 flavours of the new z maybe? a 4 banger sr20 engine and a larger vq or rb 46 cylinder?

**DONOTDELETE**

03-07-2000, 07:08 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by GTR:
can we have 2 flavours of the new z maybe? a 4 banger sr20 engine and a larger vq or rb 46 cylinder?<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

or perhaps a standard v6 and a little larger optional one?

I think the z has to be a 6 cylinder to be a z but then again I may be wrong.

**DONOTDELETE**

03-07-2000, 08:47 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by GTR:
can we have 2 flavours of the new z maybe? a 4 banger sr20 engine and a larger vq or rb 46 cylinder?<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

It will be a cold day in hell when Nissan sticks an inline 4 into a Z.

**DONOTDELETE**

03-08-2000, 01:36 PM

yeah, the Z must have a six cylinder. doesn't matter if it's six inline or in a V format being that the Z has had both.

i think it really would be great if the Z got the 3.5L VQ tuned to 300 horses. i think nissan is going to have to make this car lightweight to compete with the honduhs and ponycars of the world (the ponycars make up their weight with their gargantuous engines).

hopefully nissan won't mess up the styling

GTR

03-08-2000, 06:12 PM

hey, ive heard a few people sticking sr20det's in the current fairlady z's with pretty nice results. im just saying to have a lower and more affordable model. the celica has two 4 banger variants. if nissan can have a low model z with the sr20 for bout 17-18k to compete with the celica gt and a rb or vq for a high end to compete with the gt-s, i think nissan will steal a lot of sales.

**DONOTDELETE**

03-08-2000, 09:15 PM

I don't think it would be wise to put a four into the Z. That's would be stepping on the 2dr sentra's toes, when it comes out. Last time a 4cyl, rear wheel 3000pd car worked in the US market was uhhhh....
Instead two v6's (200hp, 270hp), and a tuner version like AMG or M (3.x pushing out 3x0).

**DONOTDELETE**

03-08-2000, 09:17 PM

Is the new Z really going to compete with the Celica? Hopefully more of a Mustang, GS400, Z28, BMW 5series killer. I know that's a horrible melting pot of cars and I in no way intentionally made the Mustang first on the list. That's just what I think. Exceed the performance of the latest 300ZX/ZXTT.

Beholder

GTR

03-09-2000, 05:28 AM

when i talked bout going against the celica, i meant pricewise =P

TitaniusMaximus

03-10-2000, 12:59 AM

Hey people... stop the insanity!
NO WAY IT SHOULD HAVE A 4cyl ENGINE!
I would have to postal inside the Nissan HQ if they did... As far as I know from a inside source at Nissan... it'll be based on the XVL platform which is a RWD and with the VQ35DE rated at 250hp for base and VQ35DET for the SE model rated at 350hp. If this is the case then the base model should start around $28,000. Let's just hope that this is the case yall... http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/grin.gif http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/grin.gif http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/grin.gif

2HD

03-10-2000, 03:16 PM

A little more horse power and it can be a Viper fighter too.

I just hope Nissan doesn't forget the most important thing, the price of the car.

The 240Z during the 70's wasn't a hot-selling product because of it's styling but mainly because of it's price. You got alot for the money. Thats also the main reason for Xterra selling over 50,000 units in just a few months.

Projections for pricing of the Z by Nissan was suppose to be kept under $25,000 but it seems that the price has gone up. They should keep the price a least a little under $20,000. I would really like to see the Z as much and even more then I see 2000 celicas on the road, not just 2 a month!

People love it when they get more for the money.

[This message has been edited by 2HD (edited 03-12-2000).]

**DONOTDELETE**

03-10-2000, 10:53 PM

prices starting at 28 G's? man, that's where the last Z started, now it's in sports-car heaven.

the car, in my opinion, needs to be cheaper, starting around 22 large

i agree that it'd be cool if they did use a VQ35DET rated at 350 hp. then it'd be a Corvette-fighter (tough car to fight with). i imagine it'd be in the vette's price range, too

**DONOTDELETE**

03-11-2000, 05:54 PM

I dunno WHY Nissan wants to even mess with the Z, the original Z was the stuff to have. The 90-96 Zs where just a pretty car that had lots of HP and looked fast and felt fast but fell short on paper. What Nissan needs to do it send over the S15 Silvia Spec R sell it for 22K bux with 250HP SR20DET and 6spd like they do in Japan.

**DONOTDELETE**

03-11-2000, 05:59 PM

Also have any of U read the last Automobile magazine ? For 2002 Nissan will bring in the Skyline to US, thats when they will redesign it and change it to a R35, which will be a design with left hand drive capability. I think if they do bring in the Skyline to US, the Z would not sell what so ever. Lemme see what do I want a 95 300ZX TT 5spd, or a 95 Skyline GT-R Vspec 5spd ?? I'll take the less-HP-on-paper Skyline, cause of its sheer real power and AWD.

**DONOTDELETE**

03-11-2000, 07:13 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by Mike Jez:
Also have any of U read the last Automobile magazine ? For 2002 Nissan will bring in the Skyline to US, thats when they will redesign it and change it to a R35, which will be a design with left hand drive capability. I think if they do bring in the Skyline to US, the Z would not sell what so ever. Lemme see what do I want a 95 300ZX TT 5spd, or a 95 Skyline GT-R Vspec 5spd ?? I'll take the less-HP-on-paper Skyline, cause of its sheer real power and AWD. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

i just read that recently at a bookstore. i'm thinking the Z could still sell (if it's cheaper than the skyline) but it would not be the flagship sports car like nissan has always positioned it (at least in the US). the skyline gtr is being sold in England for around the same price as Motorex is selling it--around 80 G's. this would be nissan's NSX fighter--and would serve as an image car for nissan (if nissan imported the GTR themselves, i imagine it would be much less than 80large, maybe 50 large). I hope the Z will be much cheaper--no all wheel drive, all wheel steering, twin turbos, that little computer deal in the dash, etc--so the not-so-fortunate sons can afford one. I think nissan should make it like the original 240Z in spirit--affordable, fun to drive, and fast. i'm just wondering if the skyline will be an infiniti or a nissan...

2HD

03-12-2000, 04:32 AM

I thought it was suppose to come here as an Infiniti. They really need a sports car to boost their image. Why would Nissan introduce 2 sports cars in to a line up at once that would be a big mistake.

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by nsuguy:
i just read that recently at a bookstore. i'm thinking the Z could still sell (if it's cheaper than the skyline) but it would not be the flagship sports car like nissan has always positioned it (at least in the US). the skyline gtr is being sold in England for around the same price as Motorex is selling it--around 80 G's. this would be nissan's NSX fighter--and would serve as an image car for nissan (if nissan imported the GTR themselves, i imagine it would be much less than 80large, maybe 50 large). I hope the Z will be much cheaper--no all wheel drive, all wheel steering, twin turbos, that little computer deal in the dash, etc--so the not-so-fortunate sons can afford one. I think nissan should make it like the original 240Z in spirit--affordable, fun to drive, and fast. i'm just wondering if the skyline will be an infiniti or a nissan...<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

**DONOTDELETE**

03-12-2000, 07:43 AM

yup, I saw the article. it's called " Nissan's Threesome, with the next generation n Skyline available in left hand drive, the new Z, and the Infiniti XVL sports sedan.

If the Skyline does come, I would expect it to be an Infiniti because of the high price, 50 plus k?

**DONOTDELETE**

03-12-2000, 07:49 AM

yeah, infiniti does need something like the Skyline (GS400 competitor). this would be good for the Z car being that both nissan and their luxury division can have their own sporty cars. if the skyline is an infiniti, it won't cannibalize the Z's sales. i think it's probably still uncertain if nissan will bring the skyline GTR or one of its lesser variants

**DONOTDELETE**

03-12-2000, 10:07 PM

I'm pretty sure if they brought the Skyline over, it would have a v8 and AWD and not compete with the Z. Kinda strange seeing how the Z was supposed to be the more luxurious car when it first came out.

SilviaS14

03-15-2000, 01:14 PM

Why does it have to be under 30K? I figure if people got the cash to spend on a land-barge lemming-mobile SUV then how come they can't buy a sports car? I think it has more to do with insurance then the sticker price.

'97 S14 SE Turbo

03-15-2000, 01:39 PM

It will never receive a V-8. Putting a V-8 into a car such as the Skyline will throw off the weight balance. The car is built to be a race/performance car and not a muscle car.

I don't understand the fascination w/ V-8s in sports cars. Yeah, it's nice to have the power of one, but what about handling and packaging? I would take a Super 7 any day over any v-8 powered sports car... 4cyc of pure sports car. Especially with the Super 7 Lightweight R (no windshield).

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by fengkc:
I'm pretty sure if they brought the Skyline over, it would have a v8 and AWD and not compete with the Z. Kinda strange seeing how the Z was supposed to be the more luxurious car when it first came out.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

noelsaw

03-15-2000, 06:22 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by SilviaS14:
Why does it have to be under 30K? I figure if people got the cash to spend on a land-barge lemming-mobile SUV then how come they can't buy a sports car? I think it has more to do with insurance then the sticker price.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Because around $30k, it keeps the payments under $500 a month. I think one of the reasons why the old Z failed to sell really really well was because of it's price outgrew most enthusiast wallets.

[This message has been edited by noelsaw (edited 03-15-2000).]

TitaniusMaximus

03-16-2000, 10:39 PM

Yeah the price had some factor in the death of the Z in the US, but it was more of a insurance issue... the best quote I got on a '93 300ZX Turbo is a whopping $235/month, and that was just last week. So I can imagine why people just stopped buying these fine cars. But then again, if I were to get a Pathfinder it would cost me $315/month to insure... so maybe insurance didn't kill the Z... http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/rolleyes.gif

**DONOTDELETE**

03-21-2000, 04:51 AM

Way too much Money. I was hoping for $22-24K not "under 30" sorry I wont be getting one.
Nissan blows it again.

**DONOTDELETE**

03-21-2000, 07:04 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by Mick240sx:
Way too much Money. I was hoping for $22-24K not "under 30" sorry I wont be getting one.
Nissan blows it again. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I think pricing the new Z at $22k to $24k is unrealistic considering it will have a relatively poweful and smooth V-6 plus rear wheel drive. I can't think of any import that can match it even at $30k.

The Celica GT-S is around $24k with a front wheel drive and a VVTi inline-4. I don't know how Nissan would be able to pull that off.

Also the difference between $24k and $30k might be between $50 to $100 extra per month depending on the size of the down payment or if it's a lease.

JonCarson

03-21-2000, 12:41 PM

It's stupid, but I don't think NISSAN is looking at a Celica/Integra/Eclipse/Impreza fighter. That was the dearly departed 240SX's job...
NISSAN has their sites aimed a bit higher with the new Z.
They may be able to release a Sentra that's as athletic as the group I mentioned, but it certainly won't have the attitude. The Sentra is stuck to duke it out with Civics, Focuses, Neons, etc.

2HD

03-21-2000, 01:04 PM

If thats the case with the Z, I think they should bring over the Silvia to take on Cougar/Celica/Integra/Eclipse/Impreza etc.

2HD

03-21-2000, 01:08 PM

Also. Please Please Please don't let the new Z be ugly. The final design is suppose to be finished on June 30, 2000 thats also the day the Jerry guy is suppose to retire (it's also his birthday too) http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/smile.gif

**DONOTDELETE**

03-21-2000, 01:16 PM

They better not dissapoint us, it's gotta look handsome, as with all the Z cars http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/smile.gif

**DONOTDELETE**

03-28-2000, 12:04 PM

they can easily bring the price in under 30k
the reason being that the motors with vq
designation is actually the japanese
scrap they wont bring the real hardware here
with twin turbos ala 2.5 ceramic I6
Besides the 3.5 will be used in all the vehicles with v6 engines sooner or later
max 3.5
pf 3.5
pick up 3.5 all these vehicles are coming
altima 3.5 the v6 3.5
which actually makes the motor cheap to produce
and the 3.5 vq in the pathfinder is actually
a tamed down version which can easily pump
out another 50hpin sports car trim
imagine a 300 hp v6 in the new z with no turbos now that whould be something to behold even 250 hp whould be nice
my wifes max goes on sale the day the z comes out if they can squeeze 300 hp in non turbo format

**DONOTDELETE**

03-28-2000, 02:08 PM

Check out this article about the new Z. The car will have V-6 for under 30K with incredible performance. Here's the link: www.autonews.com (http://www.autonews.com) and scroll down to the picture of Jerry Hirshberg.

**DONOTDELETE**

03-28-2000, 11:38 PM

I have a few comments and an interesting question.

First, non-turbo Z should have at least 250 bhp. The reason is that it should be at least one generation ahead of Maxima and 2 to 3 generations ahead of the Camry and the Accordion. Remember how much horses do midsize family sedans' V6s gain with each redesign, and you'll understand me.

Second, pricing. I don't see anything wrong with top of the line turbo Z at 35K. Remember, it will be about the same price as non-turbo XVL, that IMHO will slightly undercut Lexus IS-300 (that will undercut BMW 3-series itself). As for the most affordable model, it might start at 25K. This way it will steal sales from loaded Eclipse and be a good upgrade for the 4-banger owners. Traction control and stability system a must, but not on the base model. BTW, 35K is the expected price for Mazda next rotary rocket (if it's approved).

Third, Sylvia. Base it at the same platform and put whatever engine is good for the Japanese market. We'll have Z, they'll have Sylvia. This needs a new approach from Nissan though. If you look at their Japanese website, you won't find cars having both 6-cyl and 4-cyl options. But it is going to change at least in the US with a new Altima. They have understood that after failing to beat Camry with Altima/Maxima duo.
BTW, Toyota Altezza has both I-6 and high performance I-4 in Japan, but the US gets only I-6 in similar Lexus IS-300.

Fourth, Sryline. Frankly speaking, I don't care (yet http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/wink.gif) Statistically speaking, if they decide to make it a world car, it might allow them to lower prices to about 45K for GT-R. But it will be a niche car anyway. They can sell it as Infiniti just for an image (thus filling the departed 300zxTT niche). On the other hand, my 17 yr old nephew thinks Skyline does not look cool http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/frown.gif It needs to look less sedanish if they want to make it an image car.

The question is about something I haven't seen here. 2-seater vs 2+2. All competing models are 2+2 (including, BTW, Sylvia). As for the ZX, Nissan had both in both NA and Turbo form, but the US never got 2+2 Turbo. What are your preferences here, folks ?

tbear

03-29-2000, 03:16 PM

Oh no!!! Looking at the clay model of Z at www.autonews.com, (http://www.autonews.com,) it looks like an altima: ovoid shape at the front and rear.
Hopefully the NDI version is not selected.

dfw_alan

03-29-2000, 03:32 PM

Good god, the basic shape of that clay model looks like a 2 door coupe....

That clay model has the profile of a Mitsu Eclipse.... YUK. If the Z looks anything like Celica or Eclipse I'm not buying.... I don't care whats under the hood.

**DONOTDELETE**

03-29-2000, 03:59 PM

6-spd is a good thing IMHO. It will be really helpful for the cruising at 70-75 mph that many states allow now. Lower RPMs = better fuel economy and lower noise.

As for the 2+2 thing, I'm not so sure I want it for myself. One of the problems I encountered with Supra & 95-99 Eclipse was that they were 2+2, having about the same size as my 2-seater Z. So I just haven't felt that roomy in their smallish cockpits http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/frown.gif

**DONOTDELETE**

03-29-2000, 04:06 PM

If the styling is right. I'll have mine without the useless rear seats please.

Nissan needs a sporty roadster killer (like original 2 seat 240), not a loaded GT.... I don't understand the point of having cruise control or heated seats in a dang sports car... forget the GT crap. Once Nissan introduced 2+2, heated mirrors, cruise control, T-Tops and all that weight adding useless luxo crap it was nolonger a Z, it became a ZX'ed.

Get rid of the rear seats make the car shorter. That makes it handle and perform better by nature of less weight and easier to rotate (see S14 vs S15). If 2 seats were good enough for 240Z in 1969, then by god I don't see why we need 4 seats now.

[This message has been edited by cvnman (edited 03-29-2000).]

ant_marter

03-29-2000, 06:26 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by cvnman:
Nissan needs a sporty roadster killer (like original 2 seat 240), not a loaded GT.... <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Hmm, I think the roadster killer will always be the S15. The Z(X) is simply too large to compete in that bracket. I'm not sure what you mean by roadster, but for me 'roadster' = Honda S2000, Lotus Elise etc. The Z with a dirty great 3.5L V6 is not in the same league. It's been said before - Nissan need the S15 in the US!

I personally rate the Z in the bracket of the Mitsi GTO, Supra, Camaro, Mustang etc, which also come with all the trimmings.

It has been said that the XVL/Z platform may be the replacement for the Skyline platform. This sort of implies that the Z is a GTR sucessor, as well as the logical development of the Z32. What is everybody's opinions if Nissan put the Attessa AWD system in a variant of the Z? Would it fit? Would it offer any compelling advantages in handling?

[This message has been edited by ant_marter (edited 03-29-2000).]

**DONOTDELETE**

03-29-2000, 07:06 PM

Yep those were the cars I'm aluding to (S2000, etc). The original 240Z was light, powerful fast, inexpensive, it was the car that killed the roadster market... like you mentioned it was what the S15 is now.

You are right the modern ZX is too large to compete against roadsters. Which is why they should should build a 'Z' http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/smile.gif

I have always viewed a sportscar as being RWD. Nissan's ATTESA system is RWD until the rear wheel loses grip only then does it split torque to the front wheels... which makes the car handle like a RWD car and saves the driver from some embarasing spin outs... what a perfect and ingenious system. It improves performance tremendously, being AWD you save on tires, and boy does it shoot out of the whole like a bat out of hell... no matter how much it weighs.

The advantages of having the system on the car far out weighs the weight penalty.... only problem is that ATTESA AWD is expensive.

Nissan should put the HICAS 4 wheel steering system on the new Z... the top line S15's have it.

hmmm Just apply the same design philosophy of S15 ($21,000 car) to new Z (< $30,000) and you'll have a winner.

**DONOTDELETE**

03-29-2000, 10:12 PM

I don't think Z needs to be a roadster-like.
GT/Coupe market is much bigger than the roadster one.
And what do you think, can Miata or S2K be the only car in a family, i.e. a car for a single person? I don't think so. Z has always had more utility than that.

TitaniusMaximus

03-29-2000, 10:46 PM

My latest rumor from Nissan is that the new Z will carry a 6spd transmission... and base Z will have VQ35DE rated at 265hp and SE (or the equivalent) will carry a turbocharged VQ35DET rated at 350hp+... and 250hp feels a lot different in a sports car then it does in a family sedan, figure 240SX had 156hp and Altima has 150hp with the same engine but 240SX was about 2 seconds faster on the 0-60 test... and on the 2+2 issue... I think it will definitely be a 2+2, purely a insurance thing... if they are gonna make it affordable to buy then they will do everything to make it affordable to own one...

**DONOTDELETE**

03-30-2000, 09:26 AM

A miata (The best selling sports car in the world and throughout the 90's) and S2000 can and are single cars for single/retired people.

People who have a family these days or
people who are buying cars for any usability don't even consider sports cars, GT cars. They just go out and buy a luxo family sedan or god forbid an SUV. I've had 3 brothers who had sports coupes, as soon as they had a family they traded in their cars like most other people.

Sports cars and GT cars are now niche markets. It doesn't make any sense for Nissan to water down the Z by giving it 2 extra useless seats. The Z can be a 2 seat GT like the vette and that will be OK.

How sports jap coupes have fared recently
240SX - axed
MX6 - gone
Solara - not what Toyota considers a volume seller
Prelude - will be gone soon replaced by new Integra.

Nissan should go all out in the spirit of the original Z or don't even bother.

slowpoke

03-30-2000, 09:34 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by dacman:
Good god, the basic shape of that clay model looks like a 2 door coupe....

That clay model has the profile of a Mitsu Eclipse.... YUK. If the Z looks anything like Celica or Eclipse I'm not buying.... I don't care whats under the hood.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I think that the clay model shown in that picture is just for promotional reasons, and more for identifying/showing the designer rather than focusing on any one particular car. After all, where is the aggressive "wheel-focused" design in that model? Just my 2 cents.

TitaniusMaximus

03-30-2000, 09:53 AM

Yes, but some of you are missing the point, although the 240Z had 2 seats... it was designed to be a poor man's GT, therefore later in life came with rear seats... if you don't like the thought of having rear seats, remove it yourself or just fold them down... and plus you just might wanna put your kid in the backseat once in a while... http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/grin.gif

TitaniusMaximus

03-30-2000, 09:57 AM

Or... maybe a dog... which I don't have either of... no dog and no kids... http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/grin.gif

dfw_alan

03-30-2000, 11:25 AM

Thats right the Z was a success because it IS a poor man's GT car. When it tried to be anything other than what "the Z father" envisioned.... It became large a watered down heavy GT car priced like a porsche which ultimately failed. If Nissan strays away from the original Z's philosophy (2 seater, not heavy, great handling, great balance, "infinite" aftermarket possibilites) same philosophy used to design S15, they will satisy a few customers and fail just like the Z32 which had 2+2, convertible, TT, NA, 2 many options which drove cost through the roof.

[This message has been edited by dacman (edited 03-30-2000).]

**DONOTDELETE**

03-30-2000, 05:20 PM

ant_marter

03-30-2000, 07:34 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by dacman:
Thats right the Z was a success because it IS a poor man's GT car. When it tried to be anything other than what "the Z father" envisioned.... It became large a watered down heavy GT car priced like a porsche which ultimately failed. If Nissan strays away from the original Z's philosophy (2 seater, not heavy, great handling, great balance, "infinite" aftermarket possibilites) same philosophy used to design S15, they will satisy a few customers and fail just like the Z32 which had 2+2, convertible, TT, NA, 2 many options which drove cost through the roof.

[This message has been edited by dacman (edited 03-30-2000).]<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Just a thought to all those from the US, Nissan would be unlikely to sell a 'back to basics' Z in to markets which already have the S15 (such as NZ). And since they are moving to world car platforms (Sentra, XVL etc), this implies they will kill off the S15 and replace it with the Z - unlikely I would think.

Or, and IMHO more likely, the Z is pitched in to the bracket above the S15 - ie with the VQ35DE/T as proposed.

So, what does everyone think? Judging by the comments made here, in the 3.0ltr+ bracket the market seems to want all the trimmings. But in the 2.0ltr+ class the market seems to want the roadster thing. This implies that Nissan would be foolish to cover both segments with the same car.

Thus, should Nissan US import both the Z and the S15, or one and not the other? Or should the Z supersede the S15? And what about the rest of the world, since Nissan is now (finally!) thinking globally?

[This message has been edited by ant_marter (edited 03-30-2000).]

dfw_alan

03-30-2000, 09:57 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by ant_marter:

So, what does everyone think? Judging by the comments made here, in the 3.0ltr+ bracket the market seems to want all the trimmings. But in the 2.0ltr+ class the market seems to want the roadster thing. This implies that Nissan would be foolish to cover both segments with the same car.

Thus, should Nissan US import both the Z and the S15, or one and not the other? Or should the Z supersede the S15? And what about the rest of the world, since Nissan is now (finally!) thinking globally?

(edited 03-30-2000).]<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I disagree, it would be absolutely ingenious if Nissan is able to stuff a high performance V6 and keep it basic like the roadsters (with the exception of their feminine size). The arrival of such a car can spell the end to these Overpriced 2.0L jokesters...er roadsters ($33k S2000, $35k BMW, etc).

We don't have any performance cars worth mentioning in the US that comes close to $30,000. Our only options are Mustangs (which always sell well), Camaro's (dying breed), and Firebirds (just about dead). The market for a <$30,000 sports car hasn't died in America.... Its that the cars outgrew their shoes (Z, Supra, RX-7) or never fit them.

It sux living in the US, we get overpriced/overhyped/underaccelerating roasters from Europe, unrefined monsters (the name mustang and firebird says it all...) from Detroit, or underpowered torqueless wennies from Japan (VTEC Honduhs, Miatas etc) http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/frown.gif I guess its not so bad if you think riced out Hondas are the best performing cars in the world ..... what a fringing joke...

Globally (including US, god dammit Nissan don't quit leaving us out in the cold!!!)
I think Nissan should make the Z a superset (performace wise) of the S15 rather than make it a luxury GT car like the Skyline GTR coupe. That way none of the cars will compete against each other.

S15 = $20,000 budget pocket rocket/drift king http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/smile.gif
Z = $30,000 S15 with supercar/stock skyline GTR killing performance, all round killer.
Skyline GTR = Be all, end all of high perf/luxo GT's

Looks like Nissan's got the basis covered with that equation http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/smile.gif

TitaniusMaximus

03-30-2000, 11:25 PM

Excellent points made by Dacman... but it's too bad that Nissan is planning to share the XVL's chassis with the new Z and the next R35 Skyline... I guess we will have XVL and Z in the States, and Skyline 4-door and Skyline coupe in Japan... just different badging... I guess that's 4 cars on one platform... http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/grin.gif Oh... and people who want a small roadster type of car so bad... just wait until Nissan brings out the Sentra SE-R, I heard that they are putting in a 2.5L engine in it... based on the KA series, 4 cylinders of course, pumping out close to 200hp... http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/grin.gif Then we would have a GT in the Z and a roadster in the SE-R... be happy! http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/grin.gif

Benihana1

04-01-2000, 12:14 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by Doctor Tae:
Excellent points made by Dacman... but it's too bad that Nissan is planning to share the XVL's chassis with the new Z and the next R35 Skyline... I guess we will have XVL and Z in the States, and Skyline 4-door and Skyline coupe in Japan... just different badging... I guess that's 4 cars on one platform... http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/grin.gif Oh... and people who want a small roadster type of car so bad... just wait until Nissan brings out the Sentra SE-R, I heard that they are putting in a 2.5L engine in it... based on the KA series, 4 cylinders of course, pumping out close to 200hp... http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/grin.gif Then we would have a GT in the Z and a roadster in the SE-R... be happy! http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/grin.gif<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

The 2.5L is not based on a KA engine.

dfw_alan

04-01-2000, 10:36 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by Doctor Tae:
but it's too bad that Nissan is planning to share the XVL's chassis with the new Z and the next R35 Skyline... <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Please correct me if I'm wrong, but wasn't the XVL designed to compete against the Toyota Alezza? and the Toyota Alezza was designed to compete against the BMW 3 Series which are one of the best handling chassis in the world. Unfortunately no one has written an article (or even been given a test drive?) to report on how the XVL handles.

One thing that I really love about the XVL: front mid-mounted engine.... sounds like a great recipe for auto-X'ing.

[This message has been edited by dacman (edited 04-01-2000).]

**DONOTDELETE**

04-01-2000, 10:50 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by Yak:
Your back to basics philosophy seems are along the lines of the back to basics Xterra...which has been more than sucessful. In other words I agree with you. I only hope Nissan doesn't go to bargain basement like they did with the Xterra interior.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Come on! Xterra has all power, cruise control and other features, that are A MUST in any car above $15K. Affordability is a good thing, but refinement and contents are a must in a sports car that will be more expensive than most of its rivals even in the basic form.

BTW, a year ago I've read about the platform for the new Z, that "will be shared with upcoming roadster".

Speaking of Sylvia, I don't think they will do it in the US http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/frown.gif It would be wise to use XVL platform for Sylvia, but I don't think they will be able to make SR20DET compliant with the American emissions, especially with the Californian ones.

Even if they can do it, they should not call it Z. Since this car will be appealing towards current honda crowd, they should keep the name Sylvia and have different body.

dfw_alan

04-02-2000, 09:19 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by Poligraf:

BTW, a year ago I've read about the platform for the new Z, that "will be shared with upcoming roadster".

Speaking of Sylvia, I don't think they will do it in the US http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/frown.gif It would be wise to use XVL platform for Sylvia, but I don't think they will be able to make SR20DET compliant with the American emissions, especially with the Californian ones.

Even if they can do it, they should not call it Z. Since this car will be appealing towards current honda crowd, they should keep the name Sylvia and have different body.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

The upcoming 'roadster' they are talking about is the Convertible Z. The US will NEVER ever get the silvia, because we will get the Z or nothing... The 240SX never got any respect in the US because of Nissan's poor marketing/engine choices.

The SR20-DET is emmissions complaint. besides nonenthusiast, cars buyers in the US would rather have a bigger heavier engine than turbo'd ones... even though the turbo engines ALWAYS have more aftermarket potential. Most people here have the NASCAR mentallity or Honduh mentality, sigh.

The Honda crowd are like the lower rider crowd.... Most aren't going to be convinced of anything... Just talk about cars other than Honduhs to the honda crowd... 9/10 times doesn't work and I hope it stays that way. I don't want idiots driving a real peformance car as I'm afraid they will kill some kids in a school zone http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/smile.gif

I think people have forgotten what the Z really is, it is not a car that should cost $40,000 and loaded and heavy to the brim. If you want such a car get a vette, its at the dealerships, its pretty refined for a car from detroit, rides is smooth as hell, and heck it even talks to you in 3 languages..., and you don't have to wait. If you live anywhere outside the US http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/smile.gif then get a Skyline and be done with it.

It would be nice for us to get the Silvia but
the US desparately needs a Z. It really sucks when you mention the "Z-car" to anyone and noone has any idea what that is... These days people are calling their Camaro Z28's a Z, their BMW Z3 a Z..... Blasphemy!!!

**DONOTDELETE**

04-02-2000, 01:35 PM

This is what I think about hondas:

#878 of 1003: What is wrong with me ??? (poligraf) Fri 21 Jan '00 (01:15 AM)

I want to be the part of something big and good such as the Honda-driving herd. In our state every second driver drives them (others have Camrys or Exploders). But I have a problem doing that because I HATE HONDAS!!!

I know, this is the topic for insulting cars. But how can I insult such good cars as Hondas? So many fine people buy them! It's easier to think that there is obviously something wrong with ME.

When I just seat in a Honda, I feel how the
"lumbar support that is in the wrong place", as noticed the reviewer of the Civic SI in the USA Today, tortures my back. But the million of nice people who buy Hondas each year can't be wrong! These seats help them to avoid falling asleep when driving!

Then the ergonomics. Why does the cassette player spit off the cassete when the car is shut off? I'm used to continuing playing tape when starting car again ... And why do you need to turn a rotary knob when switching wipers when it's much easier to pull the lever? Nitpicking, you say ... Probably, but it's a part of driving experience that ruins my enjoyment of a wonderful new car!

And what about the engine? Why is the tiny engine with the proclaimed VTEC technology incompatible with the low-end torque? Probably in order to maximize it over the RPM range that is useful only on the race track or on the street in a rented car. Most owners never go there anyway.

Oh, yeah, they last long. I'm a fair guy, so I won't argue with that. It's another reason why I'm wrong. And this is probably why six of seven people I know personally who bought a new Honda did not even consider another makes! And why so many people buy Honda Passport that is an Isuzu Rodeo for more money and with a worse warranty, but it has that big letter H on it! They can't be wrong, there are so many of these people who have the word "car" equal to the word "Honda"!

And I know who is at fault! It's an evil Toyota Motor Corporation, and especially Nissan, who produced cars that were and still are comfortable, powerful, not bland and have what you can call a distinct flavor! These rascals raised my expectation of a car! They must die!

But the hope never dies! I'm still pretty young now. Some days I'll become old, and I won't care anymore. Anyway, by that time everyone will drive Hondas because other companies will go out of business. Only then I'll become part of this herd, but I won't care as I already told ... And it won't bother me that I can't find my car on the parking lot because there are twenty others that are exacty the same. I'd attribute it to my declining vision (it is not declining now, but it will by then ;-)

;-)))))))))))))))))

**DONOTDELETE**

04-02-2000, 01:58 PM

Dacman, first of all Nissan needs an image car. 25 ot 35K$ Z WILL be such an image. Later they might release a car for the below 25 crowd.

Another problem with "Sylvia for Z!" http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/smile.gif approach is the perception of Z as a 6-cyl only car, that competes with the big boys.

I can bet more people will buy a new Z with V6 (NA & Turbo) for 25 to 35 than LHD Sylvia for 20 to 25.

dfw_alan

04-03-2000, 11:46 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by tbear:
Hi, forget all the styling concerns, the new Z looks GOOD (*if* the picture is accurate)! Check this out:

<a href=http://busybeetoys.com/SCOOP/scoop-2000-04-03.htm> Pics of Z </a>

<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Man the design looks elegant, agressive, mature and small... Just what the doctor ordered.

ant_marter

04-03-2000, 01:39 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by dacman:
Man the design looks elegant, agressive, mature and small... Just what the doctor ordered.

<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Hmm, the front looks good, pity about the rear. Don't like the way that the hatch profile merges with the rear deck in the side profile - looks too much like a Honduh Prelude. But I'm being picky here!

**DONOTDELETE**

04-03-2000, 02:53 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by tbear:
Hi, forget all the styling concerns, the new Z looks GOOD (*if* the picture is accurate)! Check this out:

<a href=http://busybeetoys.com/SCOOP/scoop-2000-04-03.htm> Pics of Z </a>

<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I dunno, the computer simulation looks like it's crunched with the rear squeezed in. I really would like to see a sensuous GT shape like the Aston Martin DB7.

**DONOTDELETE**

04-03-2000, 05:03 PM

Looks to me like the size is in the category of S2000 and celica and all those other sport coupes. I like the red one in the picture, but i still don't like the rear end.I think they should borrow the skylines brake lights. That'd be sweet.

dfw_alan

04-03-2000, 05:18 PM

Yeah, the rear lights need to reflect the agressive front lights.... rear lights are just too square.

**DONOTDELETE**

04-03-2000, 05:30 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by tbear:
Hi, forget all the styling concerns, the new Z looks GOOD (*if* the picture is accurate)! Check this out:

<a href=http://busybeetoys.com/SCOOP/scoop-2000-04-03.htm> Pics of Z </a>
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

The side shot looks like new Maserati GT3200. http://www.maserati.it/3200GT/

Nose looks like Lexus SC.

Anyway, it's not bad http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/wink.gif

**DONOTDELETE**

04-03-2000, 07:53 PM

Hey Poligraf, it's a thing called Toyonda Camcord http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/wink.gif

tbear

04-03-2000, 10:21 PM

Hi, forget all the styling concerns, the new Z looks GOOD (*if* the picture is accurate)! Check this out:

<a href=http://busybeetoys.com/SCOOP/scoop-2000-04-03.htm> Pics of Z </a>

**DONOTDELETE**

04-05-2000, 06:41 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by Fairlady Z:
Hey Poligraf, it's a thing called Toyonda Camcord http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/wink.gif<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Is it in any way related to the Accordion by Honda ? http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/wink.gif

BTW, we can reduce S.h.i.t.ty Civic to S.h.i.t.ic http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/grin.gif

(Censure Must Die! http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/wink.gif)

[This message has been edited by Poligraf (edited 04-05-2000).]

[This message has been edited by Poligraf (edited 04-05-2000).]

dfw_alan

04-05-2000, 06:58 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE><HR>Originally posted by Poligraf:
[B]BTW, we can reduce S.h.i.t.ty Civic to S.h.i.t.ic http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/grin.gif

(Censure Must Die! http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/wink.gif)

[B]<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
I believe a term that has been coined for a while was "s.h.i.t.vic" http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/smile.gif

[This message has been edited by dacman (edited 04-05-2000).]

noelsaw

04-05-2000, 08:50 PM

Everyone, we just finished our second interview with Jerry Hirshberg. Here's a preview of it...in regards to the performance of the new Z...

Jerry Hirshberg: "The good news is, everyone involved is on fire, and having a blast. And if the engineering, performance and price are anywhere near what is being talked about, stand back! This car will be an event. And it will surely reflect the new cultural values of the Corporation."

He has a lot more to say about the design of the new Z and other topics in this very indepth interview. Stay tuned for our interview.

**DONOTDELETE**

04-07-2000, 12:55 PM

Dacman, s.hitic IMHO sounds better http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/wink.gif

**DONOTDELETE**

04-07-2000, 05:16 PM

With this talk of DB7's and 3200GT's I feel compelled to throw this picture out there. Most of you Z guys have probably seen it on FA awhile back or Zhome.com, but if not take a look: http://www.geocities.com/MotorCity/Factory/5356/conceptz.html

**DONOTDELETE**

04-07-2000, 06:32 PM

****ic?

http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/grin.gif http://forums.freshalloy.com/forum//images/icons/grin.gif

**DONOTDELETE**

04-07-2000, 09:37 PM

Robert Ledesma is quite good at drawing. he should work for NDI.

the new z picture at busybeetoys.com doesn't look too bad. the black one they show looks kinda european, mainly the headlights.

2HD

06-29-2000, 12:01 PM

Tomorrow Jerry Hirshberg retires and tomorrow is also the Day the Z pictures are suppose to be finished. Will we get to see them.

mcervantes

06-30-2000, 05:07 PM

I just got my AutoWeek mag for the week, open it up, and what do I see??? Well, besides a shot of the new Civic coupe. An small picture [drawing] of the new Z!! It' is only a tiny part of the rear/side. This is the AW caption:

"You'll have to tilt this page about 45 degrees to the left for Nissan's clue of what the 2003 Z car will look like. [Hint: That circle fore of the red taillights is the gas cap cover.] Nissan won't confirm it has chosen it's California studio's design over that of the European studio. But Jerry Hirshberg told us that the car will evoke both the first 240Z and the last 300ZX [news, AW, June 19] without being "retro." The 300ZX's influence is clear in the C-pillar in this artist's rendering."

I'd post the picture, but my #@$%^&$ scanner won't work!!!!! But I can say that FreshAlloy does believe it is NDI that has won the exterior design and you can see that the rear fenders are flared in this pic. The tailight looks very triangular.

[This message has been edited by mcervantes (edited 06-30-2000).]