Japanese carmaker Nissan has announced the Nismo version of its sports car, 'Z'. The Z Nismo takes the twin-turbo engine's power outputs mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission that has been enhanced for faster and more dynamic shifting performance, up to 420 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, an increase of 20 hp and 34 lb-ft compared to other Z grades. Peak torque is delivered from 2,000 through 5,200 rpm.
The company noted that the engine's horsepower enhancements were achieved through a combination of improved cooling, revised electronic wastegate control providing increased turbocharger boost and turbine speed, and an independent ignition spark timing strategy inspired by GT-R Nismo. The Z version also features an enhanced engine oil cooler for extended track performance.
Along with revised engine management software, Z Nismo's transmission has reduced downshift time by almost half, compared to Z Performance. In addition to Normal and Sport, the Z version adds a new Sport+ drive mode.
The engineers revised every element of the car's suspension to optimise precision, predictability and cornering grip. The vehicle has unique stabiliser bars, a stiffer spring rate and larger, retuned dampers.
To deliver maximum road feel and traction, it comes with Dunlop SP Sport MAXX GT600 tyres, a version also used on GT-R. The rear tyres measure 10 millimetres wider than those equipped on Z Performance (285/35R19 versus 275/35R19).
Additionally, comprehensive chassis revisions to Z Nismo begin with bracing and stiffening measures that help the car faithfully track and respond to the increased cornering forces enabled by tyres. Other enhancements include additional front, rear and rear underfloor bracing, helping increase torsional rigidity by 2.5% compared to the standard grades. Stiffer front and rear suspension bushings and a stiffer mounting bushing for the steering rack further increase lateral rigidity.
The front of the Z Nismo prominently features a styling element called the 'Grand-Nose' or 'G-Nose,' which extends farther forward than on other grades and recalls a similar design treatment on the heritage Nissan Fairlady 240ZG.
A communication from the carmaker noted that exterior revisions to the vehicle were specifically engineered to improve aerodynamic performance on the race track. The new front fascia also features a restyled grille opening with a honeycomb mesh. Besides, complementing the G-Nose is a taller, wider rear spoiler (compared to Z Performance) with a three-piece design that extends onto the rear fenders.
The rear bumper corners are reshaped to aid with air separation and reduced drag, inspiring the GT-R Nismo's shape. A red accent runs from the lower edges of the rear fascia and above the exhaust outlets. Its redesigned side sills also help reduce aerodynamic drag and lift.
On the inside, the vehicle gets an anodised red start/stop button, while the digital TFT meter display features a red outline around the tachometer, a Nismo logo and a special red 'flash' during the start-up animation. Alongside, the Recaro seats are finished in a combination of leather and Alcantara, with a red centre section and Nismo logos on the headrests, and the new steering wheel features leather and Alcantara trim, with a sporty, racing-inspired red accent mark at the 12 o'clock position.
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