Is the NISMO worth it?
 

I currently am shopping the future market for a sports car and want to get NISMO owners opinions. I currently am the original owner of a 2001 Prelude and now that I'm 30 want to invest in a real sports car. Don't get me wrong I love my lude but I am yearning for some RWD or lets just say non-FWD lol. Prior to the lude I had a 1990 240sx (S13) coupe (non hatchback) so naturally I always wanted the 300z but as a teen it was too expensive. Now that I've got some finances I want the Fairlady. I think this new 370 is gorgeous! My question is this, a fully loaded "Touring w Sport" roughly comes out to the same MSRP as the NISMO est 40k. After seeing some articles stating that performance wise the standard sport version versus the NISMO is roughly equal even with the bumped engine. That being the case, wouldn't getting all the comforts of the Touring/Nav etc make more sense? I def like the look of the NISMO but you could always go aftermarket on that stuff. So, I wanted to see what actual NISMO owners think, was sacrificing that stuff worth it?

Second question....what would you buy and your pros and cons
1) NISMO (2011) est 40k
2) BMW 1-Series "M" (2012) est 45k+
3) EVO MR (2011) est 40k
4) Camaro 2SS (2011) est 35-40k

I am planning on buying in 18 months and have 40kish to work with..I'm just curious as to what made your final decision the NISMO
I appreciate the feedback!

If you are looking at saving a little pick up a used '09 or '10 Nismo. I wouldn't have my Z any other way. The only other cars I would floss in your group is the EVO, and the two cars are worlds apart.

It all depends on what you want in a car and how you plan to use it. Nismo's can be had for far less then 40K too, (just as likely as some of those other cars) I got mine in the 35K-36K ball park. Personally, I had no desire or need for nav or anything the touring pkg offered in my sports car, it would have just been a waste of money to me. If your buying a nismo, your buying it because you like the styling, IMO there isn't a single aftermarket kit that comes close to the looks of the nismo aero kit. Just my $0.02

I had a 2001 prelude. I say get the nismo if you like how it looks. The car isn't faster and it doesn't handle better than a sport model. Flame suit on.

Is the NISMO worth it? No!

Is this not a question better answered by you test driving one? I bought with the feedback of oh let me see...NO ONE. Try one yourself before resorting to 3rd party reviews.

I may be a little biased, but I have to disagree. I love my NISMO, especially now that I have my F.I. TDX installed. It should have sounded like that from the factory.

I think it handles very well (but so do most Zs). As far as being worth it, you have to consider whether or not you are into creature conforts and such. If you are, it may not be the car for you. Hook up with someone that has one or just go to the dealer and work out a test drive. That should let you know how you really fell once you have taken it around the block...............

this is all good feedback...I picked those 4 cars because they all serve a different purpose to me..BMW=Luxury but expensive, EVO=Handling/Touring/Snow but Sedan, Camaro=straight line balls but no handling cheaper materials......NISMO=?

Personally I like to buy my cars new...its just a preference..and the reason why I'm targeting the NISMO is because of its unique style and furthermore the fact that it isn't a run of the mill 370z...its a NISMO! I was kinda thinkin just that fact is worth the money because a NISMO will resell for more than a loaded sport/touring just on the fact of its lower availability in the genre of 370's.

Among the choices available in my price range, the NISMO is the one I keep coming back to and daydreaming about and I really have a hard time finding a major con like the other cars have. I'm sure Nissan will sort out all the "Car and Driver" type issues ie oil cooler etc. Its really the only "track" style car in this price range and thats what I'm looking for, my prelude has "slider" AC controls so anything will feel luxury! I was just testing the waters here. Honestly I'm scared to test drive one anytime soon because then I will jump the gun on my budget and buy one that minute..I'm too impulsive to have no self control after a test drive...and from how many people fell in love with their cars that scares me..haha

Before my nismo, I had a RSX-S. As far as luxury goes, I think the only thing luxurious was the leather. The leather was something I can give a rats a$$ about. So it wasn't something I looked for when buying my next car.

I don't know if you need luxury but if you don't you will love a Nismo sitting in your garage. It is a car that you will not be able to drive in snow so do not expect it to be something you want to drive in the winters.

Not only is it rare in the streets but the looks are so much better than the regular 370z.

It is really all about practicality. If the 370z is going to be your DD then I wouldn't recommend the nismo.

EDIT: If you are going to test drive a nismo from the dealer, expect the ride to be much more stiffer than what it really is. Nismos come with these nasty spring spacers that are ment to be taken off when they are off the trucks. The dealer usually forgets to take one or two on each side of the car.

Former 135i owner...love the Nismo...will even be better once I cut that huge tank of silencer they call an exhaust off this weekend. EVO MR, is sick, especially for the bang, but I just don't like the styling. If the NISMO only had a turbo or v8 for some torque, it could become the car....

ABSOLUTELY worth it! =P

yea Cell...luxury isn't as important to me than performance...I wouldn't have picked the Prelude in 01' if thats what I was looking for because the prelude has a 90's Honda interior, i picked it cuz that was the best sporty car in my price range at that point and I always liked the look (after suspension drop, Rims etc. I live in Philly so we get snow but I can't even drive my prelude in snow with my aftermarket rims n tires..its like a big wheel spinnin on the pavement..only works with my stocks and even then it ain't that great...I have a SUV for snow. And yes this will be a DD for me and I really have no problem with that..I work 3 miles from home so thats not an issue. And yes F1, I really like the EVO for its AWD and turbo but I'm not a huge fan of the design and it being a sedan, particularly the new EVO X design..its perfect for NorthEast weather but the roads clear up here quick because we are used to it and its not quite Boston so if I can't go out for the 4 hours it snows I'm ok with that and I have a truck. My other car is a 99 Mustang GT (yellow annv.) so if I need a V8 fix I can take that down the line. Really the NISMO stands out because I just love the Japanese sports cars and the looks of the NISMO def stands out. So from what i get from you guys is that really the "big" diff between the NISMO and standard is the appearence..IMO the NISMO looks way better then the standard and the standard looks awesome too...and I like to have cars that are diff from the run of the mill..like now my prelude is rare and catches peoples attention because you never see them and I made it look aggresive for a lude. So the NISMO is one of those attention grabbers. I really just want a car that you can buy and not touch and it looks nasty. I'm hearing that the exhaust might need to be upgraded? A BMW, EVO or SS could be mistaken for a run of the mill daily driver and that turns me off...no mistake with the NISMO. Its good to hear you guys say it worth it.

ive had a 94' GSR, 99'type SH lude, and a 2003 IS300 manual tranny.....

i wouldnt want any other car for the $40 OTD i spent.

the handling, the feel, and sh1t man the LOOKS!!!

BMW is boring and looks like crap. EVO MR is fast and cool, but at the end of the day all i see is lancer.... and the camero.... hell man i saw 5 on the way to work. ive seen only one other NISMO since i got the car two months ago.

I have yet to see any other nismo here in Chicago and Chicago is a huge city. I've seen only 2 other 370z. One being a convertible, it was that ugly purple color. Sorry for those that love the color. The second one being a regular 370z in PG with a sports package.

A ton of people eye ball my car like it was a Ferrari just because they have never seen one before.

The Nismo is a much more exotic looking car than regular Z period. I've only seen 2 regular Z's here where I live and really don't worry about ever seeing another Nismo.

I picked up a nismo for about 38 with 12 miles on it... i live in north dakota, and can't drive it during winter, but it is a thrill to drive. I have a blazer for the winter and 2 300zx tts... and the nimso is so much fun to drive. Personally it sounds like you made up your mind.. go get that nismo son!

Nismo
 

Permit me to answer your query. Understand that I held NHRA (National Competition/Super Street) and SCCA (National Competition) licenses before most on the Board were born. In years past, I attended nine Racing/Driving schools, joined several Racing Clubs, was fortunate to drive on tracks from Long Beach to "The Ring", organized formal driving tours throughout Germany and Switzerland and served as Instructor during a number of driving events sponsored by PCA and BMWCCA. And, oh yes, I was a maniac before retirement, owning six 911 Turbos, three 911s, three NSXs, a ZR-1 Vette, Viper RT/10, Lotus Espirit S4S and a Callaway TT Vette. And those were just my sports cars. My "family cars" included two M5s, two E-55 AMGs, a C-63 AMG, a C-32 AMG, an M6, a MB 2.3-16 Cosworth, etc.
The point of all this is that I have some experience to intelligently discuss the matter.
Now, from a general performance and handling standpoint, a new Nismo's additional cost above a base/sport model is NOT justified. For one thing, when stock, the Nismo is fractionally slower in acceleration runs because the stiff rear suspension will not permit the car to squat and hook-up off the line. Hence, the addition of after-market goodies to a base model will produce a noticeably faster car than a stock Nismo and still cost less.
As to handling, there ARE differences between a Nismo and base/sport models-some good, others not. The Nismo demonstrates slightly better on-center steering feel, feedback and response (wheel/tire package the likely reason), better turn-in and far better rotation and superior in inducing very easily controlled drifts. I found the base/sport model superior in the ability to steer with the throttle, take a line without having to correct, tolerance of trail-braking and decreasing-radius turns. All-in-all, a novice would find a base/sport model more forgiving and faster around most race and road courses.

What dealership can you test drive a Nismo at? All the ones I've seen are showroom models. I've been curious to see feel the differences in handling.

Out here in Cali I've only seen two on the road and that was after leaving a car show. Other than that the only other one I've seen was at the dealership.

It's funny I get a lot of random looks and questions on the Z. It's funnier when I get people familiar with the "Fairlady" and ask questions about my "350z". :eek:

I would have held out for a white Nismo if I didn't get such a great deal on my touring sport. But to be fair to my baby, I ended up with the exact package and color combo that I first saw and fell in love with back in '09 when I made the decision to get a Z. It wasn't until last May that I saw a Nismo and that wasn't even in person.

My plan is to get the NISMO next summer...I wanna pay off a couple credit cards so I can have the higher car payment at 38-40k..my assumption is that they won't make any major changes to the car as a 2012 model but will maybe correct some issues. So why is such a solid car for the money not seen that much..as I've been researching whats out there it seems to me that the choices are slim in this price range. When you guys were making your decision what other cars did you consider? Any? BTW I saw a new 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STi Starting MSRP $33,995 – $37,345 and it actually looked a lot better than the inconspicuous recent versions....I've never seen a NISMO on the road to compare "WoW" factor but the STi did catch my eye..

I cross shopped a 135i, Evo X MR, and a Sport model 370Z. The 1-series felt like a chick car and optioned out it would've been close to the price of a CTS-V or even bare bones E90. It's ridiculous. In the end I went with the NISMO due to the looks and I got a leftover 2009 for a steal. My DD is a SUV so I had no need for the 4 doors of the Evo.

ooook, so what are you doing on these boards then? shouldnt you be bragging on some ferrari forum?

I see you're new to the Internet.

yea daleks..I am shopping those exact models too and yes I agree the BMW looks a little soft and is way over priced..however they are coming out with a 1-series "M" which could be pretty sweet but I know its going to be at 50k considering that a fully loaded 135 as you say is steeep. At that point I'll get a corvette! and why do they make the EVO X and STi sedans or the hatch style? Wouldn't it be way better as a coupe? that would cut weight and make it a true sports car...thats really the only thing that turns me off about those options. Really, there is no comparable car at 38-42k with the NISMO. Anyone? And I've driven all those cars on my PS3:happydance:

I have considered the BMW 1 series, Lexus IS300, Camaro SS, EVO X and STi.

I didn't like the fact that the lexus and BMW had so little power for the money compared to everything else in it's price range. I sure as hell didn't care for the luxury. So they ended up being booted from my options. As for the EVO and STi, I didn't like the 4 door sedan look. You mind as well get a real sedan and not a sport-sedan. The Camaro is a nice car but the interior just drove me nuts. I just didn't feel the interior looked good enough. It just didn't feel like a sports car.

I wanted something that was a 2 seater and I wish that they still made the S2000 with a bigger motor and more power. I couldn't resist the looks of the Nismo so I ended up buying it after a few months of research.

The 1M is going to be such a joke. If it's within $10k of the M3, then why not just buy the M3? I'd rather have the N/A V8 and an interior that is built for adults. I remember when a basic 3-series started in the low $30k's. Now we have an extremely weak dollar and European goods cost more; BMW's cost more and people think it's a more upscale car. It's ridiculous.

I'd look into the $36-37k + TTL range for the NISMO's. If you're waiting awhile, then I'd say hold off until late Winter/early Spring of next year and find a dealer that is looking to ditch a 2010 with a lot full of 2011's. Just be flexible on the color.

An updated S2000 would be cool. I looked at those when I bought my 350Z awhile back. I loved the high redline, but couldn't stand not having any torque for puttering around town. It would've been my DD and I needed that.

I test drove a NISMO to the Mits dealership at which point I test drove an EVO. the Evo sits like a civic or other 4 door cars on the inside. Not "cockpit" sporty feel.

then I test drove the NISMO back to the Nissan dealorship and bought it.

Sorry, but the EVO looks like a Civic next to the 370... All the Mits guys were checking out the NISMO while I was looking at the EVO.

NISMO is a head turner EVERYWHERE I go.. People are always asking what kind of car it is...

135 is fast and fun, twin turbo power, you can't mess with that, but overall styling and drivability, Nismo wins. Almost went back to my Lotus roots, but Im aging and as a DD, glad I went Nismo. Also like the fact production is only 500 a year....

How do I have nismo 517 if they are only making 500??????

bang for the buck :tup:

Apologies!!
 

It was not my intention to "brag" as you suggest. I merely attempted to describe my 46 years of motoring experience to qualify my comments. I have driven many of the so-called competitors to the Z and was prepared to offer in-depth analyses and comparisons from my perspective. If I offended anyone, this was clearly not my purpose and I offer apologies.

The Nismo is the way to go, i got mine brand new off the showroom floor for $33,000, you can get a good deal on one if you shop around. I looked at a few of the new Z's, but there was no way i was gonna buy one unless it was a Nismo, it stands apart, the new 370 is rare as is, add the limited Nismo package, and it gets even better.

Upgreaded wheels (my favorite), suspension, interior, body kit, 9hp from com, 9hp from exhaust...just my own opinion, but i wouldnt have a Z if it werent for me running across my Nismo...

Oh, and ive had at least 5 people legit think that it was a porche...Ladies love the Nismo :D:D:D

If you can get it for the right price (below $35K) and you don't intend to mod the heck out of it, and you don't mind the firm ride, I say go for it.

Myself I've replaced everything that distinguishes the Nismo aside from the body kit, suspension, sway bars, exhaust, wheels. My mods + base price car cost a far bit more than what Mystic paid but it is customized to my needs and wants.

So bottom line:
No mod: Nismo (if you can get a good price)
Mod junky: No Nismo

Yeah ill agree with this. Though i am a mod junky, this is the first car ive ever purchased. And i plan on keeping the modding to a minimum so i can finish school, but i wouldnt change a thing about my car, i effin love it :hello::rolleyes::excited:

I'm not so sure that I can concurr with the above statements. As far as changing out the aero, I am on the fence about it (only considering the Stillen bumper for greater fuctionality after seeing it in person). To me the suspension, wheels, and interior (minus audio) are just right for me. I am a little on the fence about the brakes also.

Currently, I have swapped out the cat-back and have LTHs on order, considering the Stillen bumper (purely for better air-flow), and looking to go with some sort of FI application (if bolt-ons don't satisfy my need for more guts). :ughdance:

No appology needed. just wondered what your doing on a 370Z site if you have such a badass stable at home..?..

did you buy a Z? or a nismo? or you drove one around the block and now you know everything about it.

had you said you have raced, driven, and worked on 370Z's then yes all your back ground would be beneficial.

I get that alot, definitely turns heads, even next to my buddies sport 370 :)

Response
 

When I retired several years ago, I chose to alter my lifestyle being concerned with economic uncertainty. Stupidly, I sold my remaining 2 sports cars, house, etc. and "downsized". I have been in state of withdrawal since. Several months ago, I reached the end of my tolerance and announced to wifey my intention to immediately purchase a sports car. When she agreed (much to my great surprise), I proceeded to the local Nissan dealer and purchased a GTR. This news precipitated WW3 at home. In order to make peace, I compromised by offering to "settle" for a 370Z; wifey agreed. After test driving several competitor vehicles, I tentatively purchased a Base/Sport 6 MT. When, however, the opportunity of purchasing a 3 week old 2009 Nismo with 940 miles for $31K arose, I jumped.
Although I have neither raced nor modified Z cars, and my personal "Z" experience is limited to my present Nismo, I did submit test-drive articles on a regular basis in the 1980's to Porsche Panorama and BMW Roundel magazines comparing competitor cars to Porsches and BMWs. I thought this group would appreciate a similar effort with regard to our Z's.
Permit me to profer advice to those 370Z owners contemplating "mods": ATTEND A DRIVING SCHOOL! Our cars have an enormous performance envelope that most drivers cannot approach. One cannot imagine the improvement in driving skills and capability available by taking even a single, novice driving class.

What do you think of the nismo, in terms of handling/perforamnce/power, compared to the competition out there?

What he said :D really though I'd love to hear your opinion...

honestly for the price, i would rather get a used base/sport for 25 and dump about 15k into it.

turbo kit, aero, suspension, audio.