Manual Matchup – Nissan Z Performance vs. Ford Mustang Mach 1 – Roll and Dig
January 28th, 2025Here’s a rather unusual matchup; in that both cars are equipped with manual transmissions. Also, the Nissan Z Performance is modified with some parts from the hotter Nismo Z model. Without further ado, let’s see what happens when a 2024 Nissan Z Performance takes the track against a 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1.
The Gen VI Ford Mustang Mach 1 is equipped with a naturally aspirated high-performance 5.0-liter V8 mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox (Tremec). In stock trim, the Mach 1 could muster 480hp and 420 lb.-ft. of torque at peak RPM. The rear-wheel drive Mach 1 could sail through the standing quarter-mile in 12.6-seconds @ 115 mph and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.3-seconds. At a curb weight of 3,844-pounds, the sporty Mustang Mach 1 has a top speed of 168 mph.
In the other lane is the rear-wheel drive Nissan Z Performance. Under the hood is a twin turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine with a 6-speed manual transmission. As it pertains to the Nissan Z, a manual transmission is a feature exclusive to the Performance trim level. An actual Nismo Z car is only sold with an automatic transmission. The Z tips the scale at 3,673-pounds and has a top speed of 165 mph.
The car featured in this video has been modified with several Nismo components including the air intake and the upper strut bar. While the air intake may offer a bump in performance, the strut bar is mostly cosmetic.
Time to get these gear jammers on the starting line for some roll and dig racing.