Hey guys,

I was wondering why the only 350Z data they have at:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nordsch...test_lap_times

Was that of the 350Z that they had in 2003. Wouldn't the HR's run a better time? Or are they not allowed to use a later model version of the car?

 

Just a guess, but I would assume because Nurburgring lap times are usually used as a marketing tool for manufacturers. Since the Z33 body style first came out in 2003 that of course would be the model year to run on the ring since it was a brand new model at that point in time. I don't think Nissan thought it would benefit them to go out and hire a race car driver or even pay one of their top engineers and spend whatever money it costs to run a car on the ring AGAIN just for a slightly updated motor.

The fact of the matter is that the creation of HR motor was just another way for Nissan to insure that 350Z sales remained strong throughout the years and/or to possibly fight off a decrease in sales (as you can see, I don't really care much for car sales figures).

 

Go to Germany
Rent 350Z HR
Drive the 'Ring
Post

 

fixed

 

Considering there was always a 350z (and 911 Turbo) following the GT-R around during testing, they certainly could have taken the opportunity if they wanted...

 

NISMO HR at the ring would make a lower time compared to a 2003 350z.

 

Real racers drive in traffic

 

agreed, but track records are set on open tracks

 

Ok

 

Fairlady Z NISMO TYPE 380RS-Competition would make a lower time compared to a NISMO 350Z.

 

Go to Blockbuster
Rent Gran Turismo 4
do 5 laps with all aids turned off

Wait for GT5 to come out

 

I had this same question a few months ago and never found an answer. If an answer is found in the future please post up the time.

thx

 

I suspect that the Nismo 350Z laps about 8:20 with a pro driver.

 

How did an 08 Colbalt make suck a good time???

 

I am pretty sure the only 'official' lap times for the 'Ring are those that are set during sanctioned racing events... all of this chatter over the last couple of years about 'track records' are just manufacturers puffing out their chests. No times taken during either open laping (there is a great BMW M3 CSR video out there) or private sessions count for anything other than bragging rights. Even then, these times aren't verified by anyone and there isn't a standard established for them (e.g. tires, setups, fuel, etc.). Yeah, it is nice there is a time for the '03 Z, but I doubt that Nissan would want to put any other 350s on there with all the controversy over the current times with the GT-R (and Porsche, Viper, ZR1, etc.).

Like Fluid1 and Wammilk said, go rent one and report back to us your time - and videos would be nice, too. Better yet, see if you can borrow Sharif's car...

 

Because it's superbly engineered and GM doesn't get enough credit for this car. The new Cobalt SS is amazing for a FWD sports coupe.

 

Yet people will still knock it because it looks like the base model. I predict the Cobalt SS will dominate it's SCCA class this year unless it get's bumped up.

 

doesnt the saturn sky have the same engine? guy at my job has one, pretty sick car.

 

The Saturn Sky Redline model has the same 260hp turbo engine as the Pontiac Solstice GXP I think. Just look for the dual exhaust.

 

cobalt has a fast time because it's arguably the best handling fwd car, and it made 290 something hp with gm's factory warrantied stage 1 kit/tune.