Nissan 370Z Nismo Takes a Beating from the Subaru WRX STI

This comparison between two Japanese legends is made all the more embarrassing since the 370Z is a Nismo model. Sure, the STI won because it had better traction off the line, but Nissan's sports car is too bulky, and the auto gearbox isn't very good.

And it's not like the STI is the epitome of speed. We've seen drag races where it loses to the Golf R, and it will definitely not keep up with the Ford Focus RS or all those German monster hatchbacks.

The Roadshow editors can't really decide which of these two cars has the worst ride, but at least the stiff suspension in the Subaru makes it faster. Meanwhile, the Nismo follows the crest of the road, and its bucket seats don't offer much support. What's more, the STI has a big trunk and seating for at least four people. Both cars leave a lot to be desired regarding the infotainment system, though.

People naturally assume the rear-wheel drive car is more fun to drive. But we drove the 370Z and the Megane RS 275 Trophy almost back-to-back, so let's just say hot hatchbacks can drift too.

Sure, it's fun on the track, but there are better alternatives. Both the Mustang and the Camaro have track versions, and if our money were on the line, we'd get a 1LE kit for the V8 Camaro, pay the man another $6500 and be done with it.

But this is all Nissan's fault. Like with the GT-R, the company is too busy with EVs and luxury to give gearheads what they want. The turbocharged replacement for the Z was supposed to be here already. But as things stand, we might have to wait until the end of the decade. Subaru, meanwhile, should have a brand new STI for the next model year.