In short
- The signed-off GT86 print lists 197 bhp and 1314 kg, while the HR 350Z lists 308 bhp and 1620 kg.
- Both catalogue cars are rear-wheel drive, so layout alone does not choose between them.
- Confirm the exact 350Z engine because DE and HR cars do not share one specification block.
One table can tell you which signed-off print is lighter or more powerful. It cannot tell you whether a noisy gearbox, incomplete service record or unexplained modification is acceptable. Use the numbers to frame the choice, then inspect the cars.
Should you choose a Toyota GT86 or Nissan 350Z?
Choose the GT86 if the lower verified catalogue weight is central to your shortlist. Choose the HR 350Z if its higher power and torque figures matter more. Buy neither until the individual car’s identity, history and condition support it.
How do the verified GT86 and 350Z figures compare?
The signed-off GT86 print lists 197 bhp, 205 Nm and 1314 kg. The HR 350Z print lists 308 bhp, 358 Nm and 1620 kg. Both are rear-wheel drive, and the performance values belong to the exact manual specifications represented by the portraits.
| Figure | Toyota GT86 | Nissan 350Z HR |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0 L 4U-GSE inline 4 boxer | 3.5 L VQ35HR V6 |
| Power | 197 bhp | 308 bhp |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 358 Nm |
| Weight | 1314 kg | 1620 kg |
| 0 to 60 | 7.6 sec | 5.6 sec |
| Top speed | 140 mph | 150 mph |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
Why must you identify the 350Z engine first?
The catalogue 350Z is the later VQ35HR car. Earlier DE and RevUp cars have different output figures, and registration dates can overlap model changes. Confirm the engine and specification before using the HR column.
The 350Z DE versus HR guide separates those engine families without treating one as a verdict on the whole car. The GT86 column also represents the manual catalogue car. An automatic has different performance figures.
Why does condition matter more than the comparison table?
The table describes two reviewed poster specifications. It does not inspect oil level, tyres, corrosion, repairs, warning lights, modifications or service evidence. Compare like with like only after those points have been checked on both cars.
Use the GT86 buying checklist and the 350Z buyer’s guide at the viewing. A larger number in one row cannot compensate for a car that fails its own inspection.
Where do these GT86 and 350Z figures come from?
Every number in the table comes from the publishable catalogue models signed off against Jonathan’s finished posters. Toyota’s UK archive confirms the GT86’s rear-wheel-drive layout and launch context. No outside table overrides the figures customers already see.
Toyota’s 2012 UK launch release describes the GT86 as a rear-wheel-drive 2+2. The print comparison stays bounded to the repository’s approved values. Open both catalogue drawings before choosing the one that matches the car.
Questions people actually ask
- Is a Toyota GT86 lighter than a Nissan 350Z?
- Yes, in this signed-off catalogue comparison. The GT86 print lists 1314 kg and the HR 350Z print lists 1620 kg. Published kerb weights vary by market, equipment and definition, so use these as the verified poster values rather than universal figures for every car.
- Does a Nissan 350Z have more power than a Toyota GT86?
- Yes, for the two catalogue specifications compared here. The HR 350Z print lists 308 bhp and the GT86 print lists 197 bhp. Earlier DE 350Z versions use different figures, so identify the engine before carrying that answer into a used-car comparison.
- Are the Toyota GT86 and Nissan 350Z both rear-wheel drive?
- Yes. Both signed-off catalogue models are front-engined, rear-wheel-drive cars. That shared layout does not make them interchangeable, and it does not decide which particular used example has the better condition, history or modification record.
- Should I buy a Toyota GT86 or Nissan 350Z?
- Choose after inspecting the actual cars, not from the poster figures alone. The GT86 is lighter in this comparison, while the HR 350Z has more power and torque. History, condition, running costs, insurance and modifications still belong to the individual purchase.
Written by Jonathan in Derby. Last updated .