Nissan Z Sport, Performance, NISMO & More

Since the current generation began, Sport and Performance have formed the regular lineup. NISMO joined later as the track-focused model, while Proto Spec was a limited launch edition based on Performance.

On current-generation models, Sport is the straightforward entry trim. It still has the 400-horsepower twin-turbo V6, rear-wheel drive, a 12.3-inch digital gauge display, smartphone connectivity, and the core driver-assistance features.

In recent years, Performance keeps the Sport model’s 400-horsepower engine but adds a limited-slip differential for better traction, stronger Akebono brakes, 19-inch forged wheels, heated upgraded seats, a 9-inch touchscreen, navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Bose audio.

No. In the current generation, Sport and Performance both use the same 400-horsepower twin-turbo V6. Performance earns its name through better traction, stronger brakes, upgraded wheels, and added cabin equipment rather than extra engine output.

Since joining the lineup, NISMO has been the most track-focused Z. It raises output to 420 horsepower and adds quicker automatic shifts, firmer suspension and steering tuning, chassis reinforcements, larger brakes, added cooling and aerodynamic pieces, and Recaro sport seats.

On newer models, NISMO is the sharper, more track-oriented step above Performance. It has 420 horsepower instead of 400, unique suspension and steering tuning, larger front brakes, added body reinforcements, more aggressive airflow aids, and an automatic-only transmission setup.

No. Since its introduction in the current generation, the Z NISMO has used a specially tuned nine-speed automatic with a Sport+ driving mode. Shoppers wanting a six-speed manual should look at Sport or Performance instead.

Proto Spec is the limited launch edition from the first year of the current-generation Z. It is based on Performance and adds bronze 19-inch forged wheels, yellow brake calipers, yellow cabin accents, and special seat trim. Its U.S. run was capped at 240 cars.

Proto Spec shares the Performance model’s main driving hardware. Its differences are mostly visual and collectible: bronze forged wheels, yellow brake calipers, yellow stitching and cabin accents, and special seats. It was a limited launch edition rather than a lasting step in the regular lineup.

Performance is the more complete everyday trim for many shoppers. In recent years, it combines the regular 400-horsepower engine with heated upgraded seats, a larger touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Bose audio, stronger brakes, and better traction. Sport is the simpler alternative.

Sport is the straightforward pick. On current-generation cars, it has the same 400-horsepower twin-turbo V6 as Performance, along with rear-wheel drive and the core digital cockpit, but without Performance’s upgraded brakes, limited-slip differential, seats, and infotainment.

In the current generation, Performance adds Akebono brakes and a mechanical limited-slip differential over Sport. Proto Spec shares that Performance hardware. NISMO goes further on newer cars with its own stronger brake setup, including 15-inch front rotors.

In recent lineups, Performance and NISMO have the 9-inch touchscreen, navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Bose eight-speaker audio. The limited Proto Spec also has that setup. Sport uses an 8-inch touchscreen with wired smartphone connectivity and a simpler sound system.