ihatethatbobbarker

it was the smaller v8 the vk45

350zQ45a

Anyone who is hating on the V8 needs to go drive a M45 or Q45 or even FX45. That engine is an absolute gem and has been out since 2002. They really haven't had to do anything to it, it's a gem.

The VQ feels like it will grenade at higher rpms, where the VK45 is just so smooth. Nissan really knows how to make great V8 engines, it's a shame most people never get to experience them.

The VH45DE engine that was in the original Q45 was so ahead of its time

ihatethatbobbarker

I like the V8, even considered a swap, but it turns the Z into a different kind of car.

350zQ45a

I believe the weight of the two engines is not very different.

The VK uses some exotic parts that the VQ doesnt, like titanium rods I think

ihatethatbobbarker

think it was the valve springs, dont quote me.

I prefer a high revving sports car is all, the Z makes plenty of torque as is, some more top end would be nice.

Speedracer

It's interesting to see what so many people would want the next gen Z to be like. Truth be told, one would be hard pressed to find more in a car for the same money. It all really depends on the target economic market for the Z. While there are some people, me included, that would look at a Z vs. an M3 or AMG benz, there are many who would not.

Nissan already addressed the issue, within reasonable economic constraints, of the issue of the Z running out of steam at higher rpm. Also, to make the car significantly lighter and maintain crashworthiness would increase the use of exotic materials, thus increasing cost. Do you really think Nissan is going to start producing a Z with Carbon Fiber panels? I don't think so. Look for that kind of thing on the BMW M6, for example.

The Z is an almost perfect execution of the price/performance compromise. It is an absolute blast to drive right out of the box, it is reliable, and is one of the best looking cars on the planet, regardless of cost. It would be unrealistic to ask for much more.

20 more hp, 100lbs less weight, V6, MUCH better stock sound system....that's about all I would ask for without turning the Z into a different class of car (which didn't work with the last gen vehicle)

350zQ45a

The VK has so much better top end and feels so much better and sounds so much better then the VQ, it's really that simple

I'm a big Z fanboy, but the VQ is kind of a letdown (please I dont want to start a flame war) yes the car is great for the money

I still don't see why Nissan couldnt start the Z in the low to mid 30s topping out in the low 40s and not sell a ton. Most Zs sold are in the 30x range anyway. They just need to make more equip standard and put in the V8 I dont see how that will jack up the cost of the car, since Nissan is using the V8 in other cars as well

Since it's all about part sharing, let's part share the v8 instead of the v6.

A new chasis and things like that would be great, but that woudl send prices soaring.

Still I'd like to see the Z compete with the M3, but undercut the price significantly.

350zQ45a

You are correct, the VK is equiped with Titanium Valve Springs.

The engine has never really been tweaked to its full potential like the VQ. That engine could easily push out another 50 hp I'm sure.

Just use a little of that Indy tech on the engine

350zQ45a

Also guys a company called Krylean (spelling) out of Beverely Hills, who now appears to be out of business successfully slapped a screw type blower on the Q with the VK.

It was pushing 450 hp with no ECU or even exhaust/intake mods. Literally just the blower and an intercooler and 450 hp..


The V8s advantages are so numerous, but when it comes to modifying I think it becomes even more apparent.

The VQ is an extension of a very basic Nissan engine used in lots of cars, it's a great engine in it's own right

Not a bad engine, but the top end is lacking, and that could be easily fixed.

Come on Nissan. I know Infiniti wants to slap in the V8 in the G, which would make me trade in my Z right away if Nissan didn't follow suit

ihatethatbobbarker

the key to the Zs success it that if you REALLY want one, you can make it happen.

yoichi

iTrader: (4)

The next generation is supposedly due in 2008. It will aim squarely at the cayman S. Reports from a japanese magazine says that the current VQ35 will get a bump in displacement to 3.7liters. HP ratings will be in the upwards of 330-350. there should also be some moderate weight loss as well. Read this in a japanese magazine and Yes I was born and raised in japan so i can speak, read and write japanese. Can't wait till it comes out. but reports of the new G37 is out so most of you may be familiar with what the new Z's powertrain will be like.

Zeus 350Z

iTrader: (2)

His name is Yoichi......SO when the guy says he read the article in Japanese, I'd believe him