Multiple Engine for Next Z? from Nissan VP

Originally Posted by 280z/300zx

Honestly I can't see them cutting much weight. Unless they get rid of a lot of technology and overall shrink the car dimensions there really isn't much left to cut for weight. Not to mentions this new model will have to comply with new standards for safety which always adds weight.

Consider the FRS. Even with removal of the backseat it's still going to be at 2800lbs, just to keep numbers even. Add in a V6 and weight will easily approach the 3000lbs mark. Add in more luxury and technology that will have to be in the car to compete in todays market for a 30k+ car. Now your at least at 3100lbs. Add in updated safety standards, maybe 3200lbs now. That's best case scenario. Once you start talking about 19 inch or 20 inch wheels and large brakes/rotors, and all the other goodies the weight will go even higher. Add on turbos, intercoolers, and plumping and even more weight comes.

I think for a V6 sports car we won't see lower weight than where we are now. The only way the Z will weight less is with a smaller engine. Honestly I'm okay with 3200-3400lbs for a car as long as the suspension and power is there. I've driven/owned cars like the C7, Camaro 1LE, Various corvettes, Audi R8 V10, Porsche turbo, etc that all have weights equal to or higher than 3300lbs. They are were all a blast to drive. Yes, in a perfect world I'd love a sub 3000lbs car with 400hp but being realistic I'd rather they give us a decent engine while working on keeping the weight where it's at. Nothing short of 400hp is going to keep the Z alive since 400 is the new 300 in the car industry

Originally Posted by Nargrakhan

Doesn't the Stingray weigh around 3300 lbs? It's a V8 with 4 seats.

Originally Posted by 280z/300zx

No, the stingray does not have 4 seats. What corvette ever had 4 seats?

Originally Posted by 280z/300zx

No, the stingray does not have 4 seats. What corvette ever had 4 seats? Yes it's a V8. Engine vs. Engine there is about a 150lbs difference. Keep in mind too that the Vette uses a lot of light weight materials but it's also 53K+ in price as well. Sure, the Z in theory could be made lighter but at what cost to us the buyers.

Originally Posted by Jordo!

I think its odd that some of the renderings are based on the Maxima concept... I don't think the Z will have that terrible grill...

My guess is, very similar lines to current and a front fascia more similar to the latest Nismo. They are unlikely to deviate from the classic sports car coupe profile.

I'm expecting maybe 40-50 kg lighter (thanks mainly to even more aluminium), a turbo 4 option that makes much more torque and slightly less top end (resulting in a Z that is marginally quicker than current) with a N/A V6 option that is probably a re-tooled VQ, making 350+ bhp and at least as much torque as the four banger, for even better performance.

They could offer Nismo options for each that includes better aero/suspension, the snazzy badges, and slightly tweaked power -- just like they do now.

All of that is do-able with stuff from the Nissan parts bin, and it is in keeping with the rumors that are most frequently cited (and also least absurd).

If they are serious about the two engine options, then it will come down to price, which is easier to mod (in theory, the turboed motor, but who knows...), etc.

If they do the T4 vs. V6 option it is worth noting that this recipe didn't work so well for the Gen coupe...

Isn't the Tokyo Auto show in January? They better get the concept ready...