Yes. In most configurations, the Nissan 370Z outperforms the Genesis Coupe in straight-line speed and top end, especially with the 3.7L V6.
To understand why, this article compares the key performance figures across the main trims: the 370Z's 3.7L V6 variants and the Genesis Coupe's 2.0T and 3.8L V6, along with factors such as weight and gearing that influence real-world speed.
Performance fundamentals
Both cars are compact, rear-wheel-drive coupes designed for agile handling and spirited acceleration. The Nissan leverages a lighter chassis and a naturally aspirated V6 for immediate throttle response, while Genesis offers a bit more torque in its V6 and a turbocharged four-cylinder option. The result is that in straight-line speed, the 370Z typically wins on multiple metrics, though driver skill and transmission choice can narrow gaps in some variants.
Engine options and power figures
Performance numbers vary by engine and year. The following outlines the most relevant variants for a quick comparison.
Before listing, here is a summary of the key variants and how they typically perform:
- Nissan 370Z (3.7L) — approximately 332 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. 0-60 mph commonly around 5.1–5.3 seconds, top speed electronically limited to about 155 mph. Lighter weight helps with brisk acceleration.
- Nissan 370Z Nismo — about 350 horsepower with similar torque. 0-60 typically in the mid-to-high 4-second range, top speed around 155 mph. Performance tuning and aero are optimized for faster tracks.
- Genesis Coupe (3.8L V6) — about 348 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. 0-60 mph typically in the mid 5-second range, top speed around 149 mph. Heavier chassis can temper acceleration slightly compared to the 370Z.
- Genesis Coupe (2.0T) — about 210 horsepower with turbocharging and roughly 223 lb-ft. 0-60 mph in the 6–7 second range, top speed around 145 mph. This variant emphasizes efficiency and daily drivability more than outright speed.
In most configurations, the 370Z wins on straight-line speed, with the Nismo version offering the strongest acceleration. Heavier Genesis models have a slower 0-60, though they can feel competitive in real-world driving depending on gearing and traction.
Real-world numbers: 0-60 and top speed
To give a clear side-by-side snapshot, see the typical ranges associated with the main trims. Numbers vary by year, transmission, and consumer testing conditions, but the general trend is stable across generations.
Data below covers common configurations you’ll encounter in reviews and owner tests:
- 370Z base (3.7L) 0-60: roughly 5.1–5.3 s; top speed: ~155 mph.
- 370Z Nismo 0-60: roughly 4.7–5.0 s; top speed: ~155 mph.
- Genesis Coupe 3.8 0-60: roughly 5.3–5.8 s; top speed: ~149 mph.
- Genesis Coupe 2.0T 0-60: roughly 6.5–7.0 s; top speed: ~145 mph.
When you factor in transmission type, the numbers can shift slightly, but the overall trend remains that the 370Z generally accelerates more quickly and reaches a higher top speed in comparable configurations.
Weight, handling, and track potential
Beyond straight-line speed, weight distribution and chassis tuning influence track performance. The 370Z is often described as nimble with a well-balanced chassis and relatively light curb weight for a sport coupe, which helps it feel quicker on twisty roads and tracks. Genesis Coupes, while comfortable and capable, tend to be heavier overall, which can dampen acceleration and agility in some conditions but can deliver stable high-speed cruising and solid everyday practicality.
In a track briefing, drivers often note that the 370Z's lighter setup translates to quicker lap times in comparable trims, while Genesis Coupes compensate with torque and modern chassis tech in certain race-leaning variants or with driver skill advantages.
Bottom line
The Nissan 370Z, particularly in its higher-output variants like the Nismo, is generally the faster car in straight-line acceleration and top speed compared with the Genesis Coupe's main variants. If you’re prioritizing acceleration and top speed, the 370Z is the stronger choice. If you prefer more torque at low revs or a more relaxed daily drive, the Genesis Coupe’s 3.8L V6 offers robust performance with a softer character.
Summary
Across model years, the 370Z typically outpaces the Genesis Coupe in 0-60 mph times and top speed, especially when comparing the 3.7L V6 variants to the Genesis 3.8L V6 and the turbocharged 2.0T. The gap narrows in certain circumstances, such as when the Genesis Coupe offers a well-matched transmission or when the 370Z is weighed down by options, but the overall trend remains clear: the 370Z is the faster of the two on most performance measures.