The 2011 Nissan 370Z is a sports car manufactured by Japanese car maker Nissan Motors Ltd. It is the sixth generation in a series of sports car manufactured by Nissan. The Nissan Z-car line currently holds the record for being the best-selling sports car of all-time with over 2 million units sold, and the Nissan 370Z promises to be no different from its predecessors, boasting a price that is lower in range when compared to other sports cars. It has been hailed as the “sports car on a budget,” winning awards such as Best Resale Value Award and Automotive Best Buy Award.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: $30,610.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19 gallons (71.9 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 18 city / 26 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 167.2 in. (424.6 cm)	Width: 72.6 in. (184 cm)
Height: 51.8 in. (131.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 100.4 in. (255 cm)
Curb Weight: 3232 lbs (1466 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 6.9 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 2 people

Performance

Engine: 23-valve DOHC V6 Aluminum Alloy	Displacement: 3.7 liter
Horsepower: 332 HP	Max RPM: 7000 RPM
Torque: 270 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 4.6 seconds	1/4 Mile: 13 seconds

Available Trims & Engine

Option:370Z Sport	MSRP: $34,480; MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy
Option:370Z Touring	MSRP: $36,150; MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy
Option:370Z Touring Sport	MSRP: $39,180; MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy
Option:NISMO 370Z	MSRP: $40,830; MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy

Engine & Performance

The 370Z has the same 3.7-L V6-rated 332 horsepower engine its previous model year predecessor had. With a maximum power of 7,500 rpm utilizing a six-speed transmission system; it can accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than 5 seconds. There is also a seven-speed automatic transmission option available with matching paddle shifters and a Downshift Rev Matching System. It is available as a coupe or a roadster in 3 trims: Base, Nismo, and Touring.

Performance-wise the Nissan 370Z is very good, with impressive handling and swift acceleration times. Though gas efficiency-wise, it still scores low (18/25 mpg in traffic/highway) like most sports cars do when compared to high-efficiency hybrid-powered cars. But you won’t mind that when you’re not looking for gas-efficiency when buying a sports car, are you?

Interior & Exterior

The 370Z’s exterior looks sleek and reminiscent of the Nissan GT-R, an effect Nissan says is quite intended. Its wheelbase spans 2.55 m long while the body is 4.24 m long, 1.85 m wide and 1.32 m tall. The interior finish isn’t quite up to par with BMW or Audi, but then, you won’t get a BMW or Audi with the same price. All models are 2-seaters, and do not feature much room for anything else. Although the 370Z do provide more cabin space than most sports cars.

The seats are comfortable and adjustable to fit, although taller drivers may wish to have more headroom than the car allows. The steering wheel is adjustable, and the seats are well-padded with bolstered armrests and padded knee rests, making your driving experience cushy and comfortable. Interior noise is something that’ll be less than desired in this model, as it produces road noise that is just enough for you to need speaking up louder when speaking to your companion seated next to you. Add-ons include touch-screen navigation system, rearview monitor, an XM radio, a 9.3 GB music box hard drive, and USB and iPod connectivity.

Safety & Reliability

The 2011 370Z includes all the standard safety features you’d expect from a high-end car: anti-lock brakes with brake assist, traction, and stability control; dual stage supplemental front air bags and roof-mounted side air bags and active head restraints. While the 370Z hasn’t been crash tested by the NHTSA, the previous generation model, the 350Z scored mostly 4 star ratings.

Comparisons

If you’re interested in similar sports cars, you should check out the following sports cars: the BMW 1 Series (MSRP $30,950; 18 city / 28 hwy), the Hyundai Genesis coupe (MSRP $22,250; 21 city / 30 hwy), the Infiniti G37 (MSRP $32,000; 20 city / 29 hwy), and the Ford Mustang (MSRP $22,145; 19 city / 29 hwy). The Genesis Coupe and the Ford Mustang both offer lower prices as well as more space, although the Genesis Coupe can’t match the 370Z’s acceleration and power. Both The BMW 1 series and Infiniti G37 are a more refined and polished version of the 370Z, but are also more expensive.

Pros

• Handles extremely well
• Has smooth and powerful acceleration with stable steering control
• Good performance value
• Great price range

Cons

• Lacks refinement and labors at high revs
• Noisy (both drivetrain and road noise)
• Lacks interior and storage space

Overall Rating
73 out of 100

What others say:

“A great performance car that starts just under $30,000, the 2011 Nissan 370Z comes close enough to Porsche performance to make you wonder.”Car Connection

“Though it doesn’t jump off the line like some sporty cars, 370Z is smooth and strong. It responds well for passing and merging.”Consumer Guide

“Excellent handling and braking; nifty rev-matching manual transmission; powerful V6; compliant highway ride; high-quality interior; relatively low price.”Edmunds

“The Z two-seater shares mechanical components with the Infiniti G coupe, including a wonderfully strong and smooth V6. The six-speed manual shifter is a bit notchy but is easy to use. The Z has a well finished, upscale interior with improved materials. Road and tire noise are constant and the two-seater cabin is cramped. A convertible version is also available.”MSN-ConsumerReports

The 2011 Lexus IS brings quality performance. The car provides comfort by the use of a sensor which detects changes in temperature and readily adapts into the changes. The vehicle is designed to provide excellent quality of sound because the inner structures of the car are capable of sound absorption.

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $33,295.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.1 gallons (65 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 19 city / 27 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 180.3 in. (458 cm)	Width: 70.9 in. (180 cm)
Height: 56.1 in. (142.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 107.4 in. (273 cm)
Curb Weight: 3455 lbs (1567 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.7 in. (14.4 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 13 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 24-valve DOHC V6	Displacement: 2.5-liter
Horsepower: 204 HP	Max RPM: 6400 RPM
Torque: 185 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 7.9 seconds	Maximum Speed: 144 mph (231 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:IS 250 RWD A/T	MSRP: $34,465; MPG: 21 city / 30 hwy
Option:IS 250 AWD	MSRP: $36,925; MPG: 19 city / 27 hwy
Option:IS 350 RWD	MSRP: $39,720; MPG: 20 city / 27 hwy
Option:IS 350 AWD	MSRP: $42,180; MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy

Performance

The Lexus IS is powered by a 3.5-liter V6. The valve train has 4 camshafts with an intelligent twin valve actuation which is variable. The ratio of compression is 11.8 is to 1.The amount of torque is 277 pound-foot at 4800 revolutions per minute. The amount of horsepower is 306 at 6400 revolutions per minute.

This vehicle can accelerate in 5.6 seconds from 0 to 60 miles per hour. It can also accelerate fast, covering a quarter mile in 13.9 seconds. The maximum amount of speed is attained at 144 miles per hour. The rated fuel scale is 20 miles per gallon for city, 27 miles per gallon for highway and 22 miles per gallon for the combination. It has an automatic transmission which can also be controlled by electronic means. Both the suspension in the rear and the front are independent. The steering capability can also be controlled electronically. The system for brake can also be controlled electronically.

Exterior & Interior

The exterior of the Lexus IS is accessible in 9 exterior paint colors. The design of aerodynamic has a drag which amounts to a coefficient of 0.28. The fog lamps are specifically designed in the front body of the car to provide proper perception during low visibility situations. The wheels which have 17 inches of diameter length are constructed with alloy material. The headlamps are illuminated by using materials made of xenon. These headlamps provide better light illuminations which only use a small amount of power. They are also durable. The wipers are installed with sensors which detect the amount of rain drops. The result of the amount of the rain drops alters the speed of the wipers.

The interior of the IS is also available in 9 colors. The interior communication system employs the use of the Bluetooth technology. Plotting a route is simplified through the use of a navigation system. It can be controlled by using voice or by entering the data into the panel display. Most of the interior fabric is made of leather. Starting the engine can be controlled by pressing a button. The gauges are electronically illuminated after the engine starts.

Safety

For safety, this car utilizes a dual chamber airbag. The dual trait of the airbag evenly scatters the force. It is also capable of monitoring the amount of pressure of the air in each tire. If the amount of the pressure of the air decreases to a serious degree, the car provides a visual warning on the car’s panel. The car is also capable of transmitting a call for help when the driver has limited capacity of doing it. This feature is a built-in service which requires a subscription. A newly bought car has a free subscription for this service for a year. The body of this car is reinforced, providing less injury to the passengers during impact.

The Lexus IS did not receive a good rating on the fuel saving scale compared to other cars from different brands. However, its advantages are its powerful amount of torque and horsepower. Compared with other car models, this car is reasonably cheaper. Its advantages include a larger fuel tank capacity, and a spacious cargo area. Its transmission is electronically activated.

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“From the outside, there are few differences between the 2011 Lexus IS 250 and the IS 350. But the differences underhood really do give these two models quite different personalities.”Car Connection

“IS corners with little body lean, secure grip, and an agile feel. The optional sport suspension and 18-inch tires furnish little cornering advantage.”Consumer Guide

“The 2011 Lexus IS 250 scores points for attractive styling and unshakable reliability, but comes up short in regards to practicality and power.”Edmunds

“The redesigned IS offers two V6 engines and rear-wheel drive, with optional AWD. The interior is well constructed, but cramped.”MSN-Consumer Reports

Standing competitively among its counterparts is the luxurious seven seater family vehicle-the 2011 Acura MDX. This Acura crossover SUV was patterned after Honda’s minivan, the Odyssey.

Performance

Its combined performance, safety and styling will definitely meet the growing needs of today’s families. With its power coming from 3.7 liter V6, packing 300 horsepower and a whopping 270 pound-feet of torque, the Acura MDX makes for a more reliable companion on the road.

Equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission and race-inspired paddle shifters, this SUV is also benefited by electronic sensors such as Sequential SportShift mode and Intelligent Shift Control to ensure smooth shifting between gears and to optimize engine efficiency by continuously monitoring the power needed. For well-mannered cornering, the MDX also features Super Handling All- Wheel- Drive system or SH-AWD.

Exterior & Interior

Available in only one trim, the MDX looks elegant and aggressive on the outside with its bold and automatic xenon headlamps, foglamps, 18-inch wheels, a power liftgate and a sunroof. On the front end are neat, sharp and sturdy lines that convey a sense of utility. Looking inside is a treat to the eyes. This family-oriented SUV offers three rows of premium seating to comfortably accommodate seven. It also comes with enough luggage space through a 50/50 split flat-folding 3rd-row bench seat and a 60/40 split folding 2nd-row seat.

Although the rearmost seat is ideal for kids, it can still sit an adult for a short journey. The plush seats have sporty leather upholstery. The 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat and an 8-way power adjustable front seat for the passenger give you an excellent view of the road. Among its class leading features are the hidden storage solution for a clean and clutter-free cabin. The valuable items can be secured in a large lockable glove compartment or a concealed cargo located at the back.

Extra Features

A journey can be a delight to the technology savvy individual as modern features abound in the MDX, starting with Acura DVD Entertainment System which comes with a 9-inch LCD color display, integrated remote control, wireless headsets with personal surround sound, 15 GB hard disk drive (HDD) storage and a body structure that encases the subwoofer for enhanced bass response, and Bluetooth-enabled audio interface.

Even you are on the go or your hands are positioned on the steering wheel, you can still stay connected to anyone thru your programmed mobile device with the integrated MDX’s audio system and convenient to use HandsFreeLink. Additional technology package comprises of a reliable navigation system, multiview parking camera and real-time traffic and weather detector. For the desired temperature, a synchronized tri-zone automatic climate control with air-flirtation system is included in this Acura SUV.

Safety

Being a paragon of safety, the 2011 ACURA MDX has structural safety features such as the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) designed to protect the passengers from multi-directional collision. When on slippery surface, Traction Control will keep the wheels in constant contact with the road. Its advanced Anti-lock Brake System or ABS will prevent wheel lock ups on sudden hard braking situations.

The MDX also comes very well equipped with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), six airbags, a rearview mirror camera and a blind-spot warning system. In terms of reliability, the 2011 Acura MDX was given a high score based on Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS).

The Competition

The Acura MDX is undoubtedly loaded with numerous useful features, but when it comes to spacious seats for adults, the Buick Enclave (MSRP $35,865; 17 city / 24 hwy) and Ford Flex (MSRP $29,355; 17 city / 24 hwy) are worth a look. Costing less than the MDX, the Lexus RX 350 (MSRP $39,075; 18 city / 25 hwy) offers better gas mileage and all wheel drive standard.

Pros & Cons

This Acura SUV downside include the dashboard and controls layout which are difficult to figure out and the third row seat which is only comfortably suited for children. However, the 2011 MDX is praised for its generous cargo space, powerful engine performance, advanced driving dynamics, loads of high tech features and sophisticated interior design.

Overall Rating
81 out of 100

What others say:

“With a few notable flaws in styling and features, the 2011 Acura MDX still impresses us with its friendly handling and gutsy power.”Car Connection

“Though many premium-midsize-SUV competitors offer V8 engines, the MDX’s V6 is no slouch. It feels a touch sleepy from a stop, but it builds speed quickly. The transmission works smoothly, and downshifts with minimal hesitation for passing maneuvers.”Consumer Guide

“Capable handling; user-friendly high-tech features; powerful engine with decent fuel economy; finely crafted interior; relatively large third-row seat.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Full Size SUV	Base Price: $42,930.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21 gallons (79 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 16 city / 21 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 191.6 in. (486 cm)	Width: 78.5 in. (199 cm)
Height: 68.2 in. (173 cm)	Wheel Base: 108 in. (275 cm)
Curb Weight: 4550 lbs (2063 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.2 in. (20.8 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 83.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 24-valve SOHC VTEC® V-6	Displacement: 3.7 LITERS
Horsepower: 300 HP	Max RPM: 6300 RPM
Torque: 270 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 7.1 seconds	Max Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs (2268 kgs)

When G-power conducted tune-ups to the BMW M3 Sports Car, the resulting performance of the car achieved unprecedented milestones. The results in the high-speed test in Nardo, Southern Italy where the G-Power BMW M3 SK II was entered prove that the G-Power supercharger tune-up system really works. The car reached speeds of 333 kilometers per hour, the highest in its 570 horsepower category. Only two other cars achieved higher speeds but both were powered by 900 and 1000 Horse power engines.

This sensational performance of the 2011 G-P0wer BMW M3 SKII is due to the components in the G-Power tune-up process known as the Super Charger System SKII “Sporty Drive”. The ASA supercharger employed by the system makes full use of the car engine to attain maximum power. The technology used is derived from AVL technologies which has partnered with G-Power to develop the software essential to optimum engine control.

Tests prove that after the splendid performance made by the Sports Car, there was no evidence of overuse in the engine’s combustion chambers. For road tires, G-Power used the Michelin Pilot Super Sports to handle the challenging 1,500 mile test distance. Aerodynamic changes were also made complementary to the G-Power GM3 RS coilover suspension that improved the overall performance of the car.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $16,953.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.6 gallons (62.8 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 14 city / 20 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 180.4 in. (458 cm)	Width: 71.5 in. (181.6 cm)
Height: 57 in. (144.7 cm)	Wheel Base: 108.7 in. (276 cm)
Curb Weight: 3488 lbs (1582 kg)	Gross Weight: 3704 lbs (1680 kg)
Luggage Capacity: 11.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: 4.0 liter 32 valve V8 Supercharger	Displacement: 3999 LITERS cc
Horsepower: 570 HP*	Max RPM: 8300 RPM
Torque: 417 lb-ft* @ 3900 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 4.4 seconds	Best Speed: 207 mph

*Modified Specs

The new concept for the new 2011 Scion FR-S Concept is to stimulate the soul of every driving enthusiast. The FR-S concept (front-engine, rear-wheel drive, Scion) is what the company describes as the authentic rear-wheel driving in sports cars with undeniable style and design, remarkably balanced handling and performance, elastic utility and surprising MPG. This model is designed and made to be lightweight with wheelbase made short to emulate the idea of pure-balance on a car. This feature enables the car to be maneuvered easily in and out of corners and for sleek fast speed with confidence in its stability and durability.

The exteriors of this model fiercely reflect that of its inner power and performance. Its profile has a hood line designed to be exceptionally low yet sleek made possible by its boxer’s architecture. The headlights are placed in a way that when lit, it brightly illuminates the edgy and sleek taillights as well as the “Scion” logo.

The naturally aspirated engine of this car is very innovative allowing utilization of both the direct and port injection and as a result, you get more horsepower and torque on the entire power band without compromising MPG. With innovation in power and performance, this car truly stimulates and unleashes adrenalin on a driver’s soul.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Concept Coupe

Seating: 2+2

Dimensions

Length: 168.2 in. (427 cm)	Width: 71.5 in. (181.6 cm)
Height: 47.4 in. (120 cm)	Wheel Base: 101.2 in (257 cm)

Performance

Engine: 2.0L 16 valve DOHC	Transmission: 6-SpeedAutomatic