2009 Nissan 370Z vs. 2009 BMW 135

Nissan versus BMW. If you are making the comparison, it suggests you’re after power. Both cars have that in spades, but there are some little details worth taking a look at to make sure you put yourself behind the wheel of the right car.

The BMW 135i uses a smaller engine than the Nissan 370Z, 3.0 to 3.7. Consequently, the Nissan is quicker at bringing the Speedo dial around with a 0-60 time of 4.7 seconds to the BMW’s 5.3. Horsepower levels show a reasonable margin in favor of the 370Z as well, 332 to 302, which can make a sizeable difference if you are buying for power.

A tighter wheelbase on the Nissan 370Z allows it improved control, particularly in comparison to earlier models in the Z Series.

So now, you have greater power allied with greater control. What more could you want from a car? How about a clever little system that makes you look like a better driver — Nissan has that covered. A nice touch in the 2009 Nissan 370Z is the new “SynchroRev Match” feature in the manual gearbox version, which automatically blips the throttle when you move down a gear. If your passenger is not up on the latest Nissan technology news, you will look like a great driver. If you already are a great driver, it will make you look like a miracle-worker.