I went for a test drive today in a Z with the auto trans and I was a bit disappointed. My wife has a auto Lexus IS300 with 215 hp and it feels like its not that much slower than the Z( at least at lower speeds). I really like the styling and the feel of the car but I want a bit more immediate throttle response. Will the auto open up after a while? Also, is there a big difference in power with the manual cars; I would get the stick but my wife and I share cars so... Anyways this is my first post so I appologize if this topic has been discussed Thanx

 

test drive the auto again and use manual mode..
its faster

 

The Z doesn't "Feel" fast because the power curve is so linear. It just IS fast.

 

i have the auto also and this is one of my main complaints of the car. while getting rid of the turbo may have gottn rid of the turbo lag, the auto is a little slow when you punch on the gas while it chooses the gear. however now that i have said that, the Z makes up for that by offering the manual mode. this damn near alleviates this. so , i get the best of both worlds, in the morning i can have and enjoy my coffee and in rush hour traffic i dont have to get on and off again on the clutch, but i can also be quick with the manumatic.

 

Just like 03 Z for ME said, The car is fast the slow feeling is probably due to it's linear torque curve. The power curve on the Z is smoother than most and doesn't jump around as much. The Z AT also uses a various shift algorithms and a learning mode. If you are just casually driving it will shift really smooth with very little change in RPM. Floor it and you'll feel it or give the AT a chance to learn your driving style.

 

get a manual that might cure it.