Once ripe with affordable, V8-powered, rear-wheel drive muscle cars, the world is now saying goodbye to both the Chevy Camaro and Dodge Challenger, both of which seem likely to live on in some capacity – most likely, touting all-electric powertrains. However, the Ford Mustang – as it always has – is soldiering forward with that same successful formula, seemingly having the segment all to itself once again. That doesn’t mean there aren’t non V8-powered, sporty alternatives to the pony car, however, a list that includes the new Nissan Z, and now, the 2024 Nissan Z Nismo, an even hotter version of that particular model that Ford Authority spotted testing last December.
Much like the also-new Mustang Dark Horse, the 2024 Nissan Z Nismo offers customers a host of visual and performance upgrades compared to its base variant, most of which are designed to make it quicker around the track. It certainly looks the part, thanks to enhancements such as an extended front fascia, a reworked grille opening that improves cooling, distinctive red striping that spans the length of the car, aero extensions, a three-piece rear spoiler, and a black-painted roof, along with the requisite Nismo badging.
Rolling on a set of unique 19-inch gloss black wheels that are 10 and 10.5 inches wide in the front and rear wrapped with Dunlop SP Sport MAXX GT600 tires, the 2024 Nissan Z Nismo features 15-inch front and 13.8-inch rear brakes with four-piston calipers, additional chassis bracing and 2.5 percent more torsional rigidity, stiffer bushings, and larger dampers than the regular model.
In an effort to boost power, the Nissan Z Nismo utilizes a handful of upgrades for its twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6 that include enhanced cooling, a redesigned wastegate, and revamped ignition timing, all of which translates to an output of 420 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque – 20 and 34 more, respectively, than the regular Z. However, the big news is – unlike the Dark Horse – the Z Nismo can’t be paired with a manual transmission, only a nine-speed automatic gearbox.
Pricing for the 2024 Nissan Z Nismo has yet to be announced, which makes it hard to compare to the new S650 Mustang, but the hotter Z model is currently scheduled to launch this fall as a 2024 model, so we should have more details in the coming months.
We’ll have more on everything Ford’s competition is up to soon, so be sure and subscribe to Ford Authority for non-stop Ford news coverage.
Comments
This is the 2nd comparison in 2 days where these two cars are not competitive. The Nissan z is 2 door and 2 seats. The mustang is nearly 20 inches longer and yeah has back seats. Since you can’t compare pricing yet this is a lazy headline to draw shameful attention. This might be a competitor to a Miata or fiat.
Definitely NOT competitive an it’s sells poorly as well. It needs a comprehensive redesign starting w/it’s engine! It’s an oil burner brand new. Imagine running it hard on daily basis ? Definitely not in same league as current Mustang 5.0L or upcoming Dark Horse an other planned variants of all new gen7 Mustang . 💯
A side by side equipment and performance specification comparison between the Nismo and Dark Horse has the Mustang blowing the Z into the weeds.
Absolutely 💯. Even the Mustang 5.0L will trounce this overpriced, old tech, lousy sports car. With its long history of engine maladies. It needs comprehensive redesign but sells so poorly they won’t invest in it. As pathetic or worse than Yodas supposed new gen Supra!
No manual no sale!
Is this ford authority or Nissan authority also I see Toyota squeaking in with a bronco write up. interested in only what ford is doing. But I will never buy an electric car.
Also there not talking about what the death rate on electric cars are , I was in Arizona recently and I saw them loading 2 teslas on a flat bed as they ran out of juice , petroleum is where it is at.
New gen Bronco & upcoming gen7 Mustang are outstanding & class leading. Lots of trolls on here. If I worked for another big6 automaker I’d be worried too. Ford Motor is absolutely nailing it on every front. Sales speak for themselves! Ford always & only. 💯
Mach E , and leave the Mustang name out of it.
If you want to make electric cars at least make them look good. Like normal cars don’t make them look funky…
sounded rather interesting until i read the word “automatic.”