While the presence of Japanese sports cars in the U.S. is nothing like the heydays of the 1990s, a few JDM contenders keep things interesting on and off the track. A recent YouTube video from Savagegeese explores how the Nissan Z stacks up against Toyota GR Supra. And just to keep things interesting, presenters Mark and Jack add a wallet-friendly Toyota GR86 into the mix.
Behind The Wheel With The Nissan 400Z
The video puts Nissan's newest Z-car through its paces on backroads and the track. It gets high marks for good outward visibility and a relatively spacious cabin. There's also praise for how the new Z captures the elements of the classic Nissan interior. With that in mind, tight seats make this sports car poorly suited for larger people.
Mark and Jack use a dynamometer to validate engine output, which shows 372 horsepower and 362 lb-ft of torque (the measurements are from the wheels). This is power on par with the Z's more old-school approach to chassis and suspension technology. So while the Nissan doesn't have the most sophisticated handling, it scores points as a more liveable everyday driver.
Getting Close Up With The Toyota GR Supra
Equal weight is given to Toyota's take on the BMW Z4. And while the presenters carry the GR Supra in high regard, the car is clearly lacking when it comes to the cabin experience. Mark equates being inside with "sitting in a deep hole," an encounter made no better by poor ergonomics and a lack of practical storage.
But, it's the mechanicals that gives the Supra an edge. A dyno check reveals 397 horsepower and 423 lb-ft of torque. This superior output and less weight (150 fewer pounds than the Z) provide straight-line performance that leaves the Nissan well behind. A more sophisticated chassis also proves its worth on the track.
Trackside Differences And A Surprise
With the acceleration race already won by the Supra, can the Z even things up when it comes to lap time? Unfortunately for Nissan Z, the Toyota Supra prevails again with a two-second gap.
Interestingly, a Toyota GR86 gets put into the comparison with surprising results. Despite a $20,000 lower tag, this Supra stablemate holds its own on the track and finished less than two seconds behind the Z.
Source: YouTube/Savagegeese