450z????
#22
Registered User
iTrader: (8)
It is amazing how the talk of the 450Z comes up every so many weeks here. I think I all was started with that French article on the special "Tuned" version of the Z that was supposed to come out a few years ago. Turned out that was only the 300hp version of the VQ motor. Now, speculation is that the current Z will be re-done in 2008-09 which is a year after the GT-R is supposed to hit the USA. I could see the 4.5 V8 in the Z and the term "450Z" just sounds cool to me.
Anyone who thinks the 450Z will be in showrooms next year will be disappointed to find the same 3.5L in the showroom.
Anyone who wants to have a 450Z could just go for the 4.3 stroker kit and get the power w/o any FI.
Performance Nissan will sell the 3.8 kit...
http://performancenissanparts.com/ca...oducts_id=5682
Anyone who thinks the 450Z will be in showrooms next year will be disappointed to find the same 3.5L in the showroom.
Anyone who wants to have a 450Z could just go for the 4.3 stroker kit and get the power w/o any FI.
Performance Nissan will sell the 3.8 kit...
http://performancenissanparts.com/ca...oducts_id=5682
#25
Registered User
iTrader: (16)
Join Date: Mar 2004
Location: Nashville, TN
Posts: 2,939
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by Netko350Z
It is amazing how the talk of the 450Z comes up every so many weeks here. I think I all was started with that French article on the special "Tuned" version of the Z that was supposed to come out a few years ago. Turned out that was only the 300hp version of the VQ motor. Now, speculation is that the current Z will be re-done in 2008-09 which is a year after the GT-R is supposed to hit the USA. I could see the 4.5 V8 in the Z and the term "450Z" just sounds cool to me.
Anyone who thinks the 450Z will be in showrooms next year will be disappointed to find the same 3.5L in the showroom.
Anyone who wants to have a 450Z could just go for the 4.3 stroker kit and get the power w/o any FI.
Performance Nissan will sell the 3.8 kit...
http://performancenissanparts.com/ca...oducts_id=5682
Anyone who thinks the 450Z will be in showrooms next year will be disappointed to find the same 3.5L in the showroom.
Anyone who wants to have a 450Z could just go for the 4.3 stroker kit and get the power w/o any FI.
Performance Nissan will sell the 3.8 kit...
http://performancenissanparts.com/ca...oducts_id=5682
#27
I think that with cars like the Evo and Sti coming out recently... Nissan is feeling the pressure - the 350z is not the performance bargain it used to be.
Part of the problem is that it is too heavy - I can only imagine the extra weight of an AWD system. Ugh. The 4.5L engine probably is barely heavier than the 3.5VQ, so no biggie, there.
If they do manage to lighten it up, put in a 4.5L with AWD... again, you start talking about eating into the GT-R sales. But it would guarantee the GT-R shows up as an Infiniti in North America to justify it's price.
Rumors like this are usually based on some actual event. For instance, some guy at a track in Japan saw this other guy whose friend saw a 350Z with a 4.5L in it and AWD, as a test bed. For all we know, it was really testing a foundation for the upcoming GT-R. Manufacurers use existing models to try future technologies and platforms.
Yes, 400hp is a lot for that size car, but it seems to do fine for Corvette, Viper, Ferrari... etc. It doesn't need AWD, and would just add cost. I would question if they really are bringing out an AWD 450Z. I really doubt it. Another "feature" to save for the GT-R, in my opinion.
I could easily see a RWD 450Z, though. It makes sense. And as much as we all would like a 3.5TT - it isn't going to happen for the Z. Too expensive to produce and too expensive for the warranty/service. They'll go NA 4.5L before 3.5TT. No question. I bet a 4.5L over the 3.5L adds less than $1000 in cost to Nissan.
Part of the problem is that it is too heavy - I can only imagine the extra weight of an AWD system. Ugh. The 4.5L engine probably is barely heavier than the 3.5VQ, so no biggie, there.
If they do manage to lighten it up, put in a 4.5L with AWD... again, you start talking about eating into the GT-R sales. But it would guarantee the GT-R shows up as an Infiniti in North America to justify it's price.
Rumors like this are usually based on some actual event. For instance, some guy at a track in Japan saw this other guy whose friend saw a 350Z with a 4.5L in it and AWD, as a test bed. For all we know, it was really testing a foundation for the upcoming GT-R. Manufacurers use existing models to try future technologies and platforms.
Yes, 400hp is a lot for that size car, but it seems to do fine for Corvette, Viper, Ferrari... etc. It doesn't need AWD, and would just add cost. I would question if they really are bringing out an AWD 450Z. I really doubt it. Another "feature" to save for the GT-R, in my opinion.
I could easily see a RWD 450Z, though. It makes sense. And as much as we all would like a 3.5TT - it isn't going to happen for the Z. Too expensive to produce and too expensive for the warranty/service. They'll go NA 4.5L before 3.5TT. No question. I bet a 4.5L over the 3.5L adds less than $1000 in cost to Nissan.
#28
Originally Posted by trebien
I could easily see a RWD 450Z, though. It makes sense. And as much as we all would like a 3.5TT - it isn't going to happen for the Z. Too expensive to produce and too expensive for the warranty/service. They'll go NA 4.5L before 3.5TT. No question. I bet a 4.5L over the 3.5L adds less than $1000 in cost to Nissan.
This is a good time for performance cars, you have the new Z06 that is all over the performance number of the Ford GT, Fords GT500 will be coming out shortly (a pulley, exhaust and a tune away from 600rwhp), the GTR, the new evo ect... good times
#29
Registered User
iTrader: (8)
Originally Posted by OP Z
That "autocar" article is the one that started a rumor a long time ago...
BTW...here is the article...Supposed to be launched as a 2005 model....
I believe we just entered into the 2006 model year....
Last edited by Netko350Z; 11-29-2005 at 05:22 PM.
#30
V8? Sure, why not? Weight as mentioned is not a problem. And they have a working v8 they can play with, so roduction costs in that case are covered. The 3.5VQ seems as though it has reached somewhat its natural abilities, and given the performance market and trend these days, it makes the v8 even more possible. The v8 would allow for more expansion room in future generations of the Z.
The FX45's 4.5L has 315hp, and i'm sure w/ some tweaking to performance spec, it could easily reach 350hp that would go into the 450z. The speculation of it up to 400hp is possible, but for only the performance top notch 450Z model, if any. It doesn't make business sense to give a 100hp bump after one generation due to the extra profit they can be making splitting the 100hp over 2 to 3 generations of the Z.
As for eating into the GTR market, not one bit will it affect it because the GTR caters to a VERY small niche of customers to begin with given the vehicle is Vette+ pricing. The Z and GTR are two very different markets, it's like comparing the Acura NSX to Sti/Evo, sure their performance may match up or come close, but the legacy, legend, cool factor of the two cars are just too different (one econo, other exotic). Not to mention the GTR's interior will be far superior.
If Nissan was able to squeeze out a marketable amount of HP for the 450z from the 3.L, they woud no doubt done it already to prevent using the v8, but they probably know the 3.5L is perhaps pushed to its safety limits by their standards. Weight reduction like many said isn't the best alternative due to the Z's natural dynamics in handling.
I think the awd system would also be marketted to the 450z, but only to the top models or as an option to push for extra profits. The Z would still do ok w/ 350hp and be able to put those to the ground.
I am graduating in half a year, and will be looking into buying a new car. At first I was considering the TL, new IS, and maybe the STI/Evo. But now that this surfaced, I might just have to wait for it if the rumors are true. My real concern is regarding the mpg of the v8 because petrolium isn't getting cheaper >.> I would expect the 450z's pricing not to be much more than what it is now (for the non-awd versions).
The FX45's 4.5L has 315hp, and i'm sure w/ some tweaking to performance spec, it could easily reach 350hp that would go into the 450z. The speculation of it up to 400hp is possible, but for only the performance top notch 450Z model, if any. It doesn't make business sense to give a 100hp bump after one generation due to the extra profit they can be making splitting the 100hp over 2 to 3 generations of the Z.
As for eating into the GTR market, not one bit will it affect it because the GTR caters to a VERY small niche of customers to begin with given the vehicle is Vette+ pricing. The Z and GTR are two very different markets, it's like comparing the Acura NSX to Sti/Evo, sure their performance may match up or come close, but the legacy, legend, cool factor of the two cars are just too different (one econo, other exotic). Not to mention the GTR's interior will be far superior.
If Nissan was able to squeeze out a marketable amount of HP for the 450z from the 3.L, they woud no doubt done it already to prevent using the v8, but they probably know the 3.5L is perhaps pushed to its safety limits by their standards. Weight reduction like many said isn't the best alternative due to the Z's natural dynamics in handling.
I think the awd system would also be marketted to the 450z, but only to the top models or as an option to push for extra profits. The Z would still do ok w/ 350hp and be able to put those to the ground.
I am graduating in half a year, and will be looking into buying a new car. At first I was considering the TL, new IS, and maybe the STI/Evo. But now that this surfaced, I might just have to wait for it if the rumors are true. My real concern is regarding the mpg of the v8 because petrolium isn't getting cheaper >.> I would expect the 450z's pricing not to be much more than what it is now (for the non-awd versions).
#31
Registered User
iTrader: (18)
Join Date: Oct 2004
Location: .
Posts: 9,482
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by n8236
V8? Sure, why not? Weight as mentioned is not a problem. And they have a working v8 they can play with, so roduction costs in that case are covered. The 3.5VQ seems as though it has reached somewhat its natural abilities, and given the performance market and trend these days, it makes the v8 even more possible. The v8 would allow for more expansion room in future generations of the Z.
The FX45's 4.5L has 315hp, and i'm sure w/ some tweaking to performance spec, it could easily reach 350hp that would go into the 450z. The speculation of it up to 400hp is possible, but for only the performance top notch 450Z model, if any. It doesn't make business sense to give a 100hp bump after one generation due to the extra profit they can be making splitting the 100hp over 2 to 3 generations of the Z.
As for eating into the GTR market, not one bit will it affect it because the GTR caters to a VERY small niche of customers to begin with given the vehicle is Vette+ pricing. The Z and GTR are two very different markets, it's like comparing the Acura NSX to Sti/Evo, sure their performance may match up or come close, but the legacy, legend, cool factor of the two cars are just too different (one econo, other exotic). Not to mention the GTR's interior will be far superior.
If Nissan was able to squeeze out a marketable amount of HP for the 450z from the 3.L, they woud no doubt done it already to prevent using the v8, but they probably know the 3.5L is perhaps pushed to its safety limits by their standards. Weight reduction like many said isn't the best alternative due to the Z's natural dynamics in handling.
I think the awd system would also be marketted to the 450z, but only to the top models or as an option to push for extra profits. The Z would still do ok w/ 350hp and be able to put those to the ground.
I am graduating in half a year, and will be looking into buying a new car. At first I was considering the TL, new IS, and maybe the STI/Evo. But now that this surfaced, I might just have to wait for it if the rumors are true. My real concern is regarding the mpg of the v8 because petrolium isn't getting cheaper >.> I would expect the 450z's pricing not to be much more than what it is now (for the non-awd versions).
The FX45's 4.5L has 315hp, and i'm sure w/ some tweaking to performance spec, it could easily reach 350hp that would go into the 450z. The speculation of it up to 400hp is possible, but for only the performance top notch 450Z model, if any. It doesn't make business sense to give a 100hp bump after one generation due to the extra profit they can be making splitting the 100hp over 2 to 3 generations of the Z.
As for eating into the GTR market, not one bit will it affect it because the GTR caters to a VERY small niche of customers to begin with given the vehicle is Vette+ pricing. The Z and GTR are two very different markets, it's like comparing the Acura NSX to Sti/Evo, sure their performance may match up or come close, but the legacy, legend, cool factor of the two cars are just too different (one econo, other exotic). Not to mention the GTR's interior will be far superior.
If Nissan was able to squeeze out a marketable amount of HP for the 450z from the 3.L, they woud no doubt done it already to prevent using the v8, but they probably know the 3.5L is perhaps pushed to its safety limits by their standards. Weight reduction like many said isn't the best alternative due to the Z's natural dynamics in handling.
I think the awd system would also be marketted to the 450z, but only to the top models or as an option to push for extra profits. The Z would still do ok w/ 350hp and be able to put those to the ground.
I am graduating in half a year, and will be looking into buying a new car. At first I was considering the TL, new IS, and maybe the STI/Evo. But now that this surfaced, I might just have to wait for it if the rumors are true. My real concern is regarding the mpg of the v8 because petrolium isn't getting cheaper >.> I would expect the 450z's pricing not to be much more than what it is now (for the non-awd versions).
#36
Registered User
iTrader: (3)
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: Winter Spring, FL
Posts: 108
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by Netko350Z
wait a sec....there's a 560Z comming out??
Any details? Hp? mmmmmanI gotta get one of those....
Any details? Hp? mmmmmanI gotta get one of those....
just in case, im just kidding
#38
Registered User
Join Date: Jun 2005
Location: Long Beach, CA
Posts: 28
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Yeah that sounds like what the specs of the GTR...or close...minus the possibility of the TT. Honestly it doesn't seem to make sense profit-wise, especially because in the segment the Z is very competitive...when looking at sports cars it's usually between the Vette and Z for tops in the segment. Now if Nissan wants to attract the type customers that shop Vettes (which are usually different than typical Z shoppers) such a change maybe ok...but as they are already doing well...why switch? And if they do switch would it make sense to fill in the spot where the Z used to exist with another V6 offering? Considering the way the market is...and how most automakers are assuming that industry is going to slow a bit before it picks up...such a move seems a bit risky.
Not to mention, the VQ still has more power to produce. I don't think 300 is the most it can handle in a factory application.
Not to mention, the VQ still has more power to produce. I don't think 300 is the most it can handle in a factory application.
#39
Registered User
iTrader: (2)
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Dallas, TX
Posts: 1,942
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
isn't the m45 like 330hp? I know they can tune it differently for a Z if they ever do that but +70 hp is a little bit of a strech + the cost increase you are most likely better off spending the money on a single turbo kit unless they do alot more than just swap an engine in
#40
Registered User
iTrader: (2)
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Dallas, TX
Posts: 1,942
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by 350zOnlineStore
yea i have a friend whos cousins talked to a homeless guy who was brothers with the top guy at Nissan. He said 800hp, 6WD thats right 6 wheels, a jet pack, and its gonna be on 44" mud tires.
just in case, im just kidding
just in case, im just kidding
(jk)