My FH5 Log: EPISODE Z

Back in the Japanese Automotive update last year, I got my hands on the Nissan Fairlady Z RZ34 and I said that the added power from its turbocharged engine and Z-centric bits made the RZ34 the ultimate Fairlady Z ever made despite the electric power steering drama that caused some understeer at the bends.

Of course, the year 2023 introduced us to a power-packed Fairlady Z NISMO which has 20 more power than the base RZ34 Fairlady Z. Now that it's here as the hero of the Horizon Holidays Mix-up update, which is littered with four old clunkers I'm not interested with, let's get to know about the NISMO version of the RZ34, having obtained it from Week 1's seasonal championship.

The RZ34 Fairlady Z NISMO transforms the familiar RZ34 into the ultimate road-legal track vehicle, closely resembling racing machines such as the Super GT racing car and the Formula Drift car made famous by Chris Forsberg.

While it looks and feels similar to the standard RZ34 Fairlady Z, the NISMO version features exclusive aerodynamic upgrades and custom-made RAYS 19-inch forged aluminum wheels. Inside, it boasts RECARO sports seats, an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, a specially designed instrument panel, and a drive mode selector, all of which set the Z NISMO apart from the regular Z.

Its 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo engine has been enhanced to deliver an additional 20PS of power, bringing the total to 420PS. This makes it the most powerful Z-car ever produced. However, this added power has a downside—it is paired exclusively with a revised 9-speed automatic transmission featuring paddle shifters, which may disappoint driving enthusiasts, even when set to SPORT+ mode. Fuel economy is approximately 9.2 km/L based on WLTC Mode standards.

The Nissan Fairlady Z RZ34 NISMO is a powerful car that makes the base RZ34 Fairlady Z feel like a walk in the park. With a 9-speed automatic transmission, 420PS, a 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo engine, and NISMO credentials, this car is a dream. Speaking of which...

Let's find out if 20PS more power means better for the Fairlady Z RZ34 NISMO as it battles against its basic version around the Winter Wonderland Circuit, which is one of the returning highlights of the Horizon Holidays Mix-up update. Let's roll the tape.

Here are the results...

Z - 1m10.454s

Z NISMO - 1:07.084s

A near-3 second gap between them. Guess more power is better in NISMO's case. Well done.

When the RZ34 Fairlady Z was launched in 2022, it was celebrated as the most powerful Fairlady Z ever created. However, the introduction of the NISMO variant changed that narrative. This truly is the ultimate Z car ever made, and given the way things are evolving, it might be one of the last cars you drive in your lifetime. Add it to your bucket list!

Although this is the end of the discussion, the Z NISMO tells me it's preparing for its little show. What could it be? Since this is our hero car of the Horizon Holidays Mix-up update, which is cramped with four old cars, looks like it wants to battle against the quartet of clunkers.

Anyway, watch for it, and in the meantime, enjoy your new Z.