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The 3rd generation RX-7 began planning back in 1986 with production begining toward the end of 1991. I'd hardly say that the Z32 'launched' the RX-7. IMO, I think the front-end of the Z32 is one of the best parts.
: Rainy day outside so I thought I'd share some quick thoughts on the current and prior iterations of the legendary Z car.
: Z32:
- reversed the Z trend of increasing GT-type cruising as embodied in the digital dash, soft ride, underpowered Z31 (which was also as ugly as sin in it's later, rounder, plumper versions)
- unique, clean styling which has stood the test of time (outside of the front end, the rest of car would not look out of place in a showroom today)
- brought performance back to the forefront for Nissan, a true flagship, an aspirational vehicle for most people
- launched a flurry of performance-oriented pretender japanese supercars (rx-7, supra, 3000gt/stealth)
- technological pinnacle built off thoughts/ideas from the mid-4 concept car (4ws, abs, digital climate control, twin turbos, twin intercoolers, adjustable suspension, power everything)
- a car not meant for the masses, but as an alternative to the porsche 944/968 and corvettes of the day : 350Z:
- budget-oriented performance for the masses
- limited technology available on demand (traction control, nav, etc.)
- copycat styling (audi TT, lexus sc430, toyota celica)
- trying to be a flagship car, using the same engine as a half-dozen other nissan cars with limited modifications, an attainable car for most people
- a challenger for the audi TT, celica and perhaps porsche boxster, the 350Z is a downmarket car relative to the Z32 : My conclusion is that although the Z lineage lives on, a lot of valuable brand equity has been lost and though the 350Z could prove to be a popular car, it's unlikely that it could live up to flagship potential. Clearly, the 350z has far more favorable economics, but at the high end of it's price scale it will be fighting (and likely losing) a battle with the G35 coupe. : I'd suggest that Nissan consider an NSX-type idea and bring innovative design (as evidenced in the maxima and altima) to the Z as the 350Z feels more like a 240sx that wandered uptown than a 300ZX that went downmarket. Any thoughts?
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