Mini Cooper to 370z

[Guard Dad]

Unlike JWC Mini, the Nismo is not really faster than a Sport Package Z. The Nismo has a more aggressive exhaust, wider wheels, stiffer & slightly shorter springs/dampers, a body kit and Nismo labeling. If you like the Nismo it's probably worth it and you will get some of that money back when you sell or trade. I got the Base Model with the Sport Package because I liked the look and couldn't justify the cost of the Nismo. Years ago I had a similar choice between a 99 Camaro Z28 and a 99 Camaro SS, that time I went with the SS so I've gone both ways on this issue.

Remember, you won't get your money back on your mods so make sure you are doing things you really want. If all you end up doing is making a Sport Package into a Nismo copy you might as well get the Nismo in the first place.

[Cell]

The nismo is about 6k more over base+sport. The nismo isn't light years apart from the base/touring when it comes down to performance. You do have a bunch of minor changes like exhaust/tune/suspension/body kit/rims/tires/interior stitching, but still nothing that will boost the nismo that far. All the extras the nismo comes with are basically light changes that aftermarket parts can do much better.

If you are planning on doing body kit/rims then those two alone will cost just as much if not more than the nismo's package. So if you love the nismo's look, buy it because the body kit + rims alone is worth it. If you don't like the nismo's look then I suggest the base+sport.

Down to it, between the two packages, it is about which one looks better to you.

[FromG2Z]

Originally Posted by Cell

The nismo is about 6k more over base+sport. The nismo isn't light years apart from the base/touring when it comes down to performance. You do have a bunch of minor changes like exhaust/tune/suspension/body kit/rims/tires/interior stitching, but still nothing that will boost the nismo that far. All the extras the nismo comes with are basically light changes that aftermarket parts can do much better.

If you are planning on doing body kit/rims then those two alone will cost just as much if not more than the nismo's package. So if you love the nismo's look, buy it because the body kit + rims alone is worth it. If you don't like the nismo's look then I suggest the base+sport.

Down to it, between the two packages, it is about which one looks better to you.

^ I would have to agree with all of the statements above from the others as well.

The Nismo vs base/touring has been debated several times on this forum too and proved to be a great read. In fact, this thread might once again

As someone said earlier, I love all versions of the Z and would not have minded getting the Nismo version. But in the end, I like the more "subdued" look of the non-nismo Z. Again, comes down to personal preference, but don't choose based on performance, as they are pretty much equal.

Whatever you choose should be based on looks, residual value, modding plans, and exclusivity.