370Z Takes on Genesis Coupe 3.8 Track

ClevelandCWRU

New guy here! I’m strongly considering a 370Z, and looking for some advice. I’m trying to decide between a 370Z Touring (with sport package) and Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 Track. I know the question has been asked here and yes, I done the searches. However, I’d like some fresh opinions now that both cars have been out for a couple years getting exposure and there’s less misinformation floating around. Plus, my priorities might be different than others on the board…just how I perceive things after reading, I could easily be wrong.

I’m not going to be “modding” or tuning the car so I don’t care about unlocked potential. I won’t be taking the car to the track, and the kid the in the mustang/camaro/etc. can rev his engine at the stoplight all he wants but I still won’t race him. I don’t ever race or drive all-out but I do enjoy spirited driving when safe. All I really am looking for is a sporty and capable RWD performance coupe that is reliable, fun to drive, and available with an automatic (to ease the commute). I’ve narrowed my search to these two cars, and honestly I think I’d be happy with either one and never look back. I understand that the two aren’t direct competitors and it might not always make a whole lot of sense to cross-shop them. That said, for my purposes it’s almost splitting hairs at this point (not factoring in cost).

Still it’s fun to compare and contrast the two and draw distinctions. Let’s do just that, and evaluate the cars on their own strengths/weaknesses. Besides, the cost difference isn't as much for me due to corporate relationships between the company I work for and the manufacturers. Here’s where I stand after driving both, trying to decide which I would rather own.

Performance
The 370Z is the hands-down winner in the performance category. The test numbers don’t lie there. But the GC isn’t exactly a slouch. I drove the Hyundai first and was impressed with its performance. When I test drove the Z today it didn’t seem like as large a gap as the numbers suggest. Both engines feel powerful and willing to rev, the Nissan’s just a bit more so. I preferred the Brembo’s that come on the 3.8 Track, but both were seriously strong stoppers. The Nissan gets a demerit for drinking premium fuel, and thirsting for it more often. Bottom line is they both feel fast in real world driving and can scream if asked …boy do they want to be asked.

Ride and Handling
I found the handling of both cars to be exceptional, with the Z feeling a bit more direct. They ride similarly, firm without crossing over to harsh and always controlled. Admittedly I’m not being very sensitive to the ride. We have less-than-perfect roads around here, no car can really isolate you from the bumps/holes, not even my friend’s Avalon Limited. With big 19” alloys and performance tires, tire noise/boom was ever present in both, more so in the 370Z. The GC had a noticeably quieter cabin, which seemed appropriate for its better appointed interior.

Styling and Interior
It’s all subjective, but I prefer the styling of the Nissan. The Hyundai looks exciting, but borders on looking just a touch too “boy-racerish” for my tastes. I fear the 370Z may begin to look dated prematurely because of its similarity to the 350Z. I’d give all the styling points to the GC if I could get the limited slip and Brembo’s without the wing. Both look fast standing still and will turn heads anywhere you go.

The interior of the 370Z is clearly a step up from its predecessor, but it’s no match for what the GC offers in terms of comfort and feature content. Nissan gives you everything you absolutely need, and very little you don’t. Even though it’s labeled as the 3.8 Track, it’s meant to be more of a “touring” coupe than an outright sports car which is clear by how its cabin is spec’d. The list of features is long and impressive, including the premium Inifinity sound system and navigation…standard. The seats are phenomenal; comfortable, supportive, and wrapped in rich, supple perforated leather. Even just the layout and design of the interior of the GC seems fresher and more upscale than the Z’s.

Practicality
Neither offers a ton of practicality, but let’s call the GC, um…less impractical? It’s not a huge issue for me as I’m young-ish and single with no kids. Still, I feel the Z is pushing the limit here. I draw the line at being able to take another person, a couple laptops and bags for a weekend+ road trip. The Nissan just barely squeaks by. The trunk on the GC is at least a useful size, if not shape. I consider it a two seater like the Z, because the rear seats are utterly useless. It’s best to think of them as a storage extension.

That’s my take on two very compelling yet distinct offerings. What are your thoughts and which would you choose? Why?