2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 vs. 1999 Nissan Z
To start off, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Nissan Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Nissan Z would be higher. At 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 1999 Nissan Z. (197 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1999 Nissan Z.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 (651 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 406 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Nissan Z. (245 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Nissan Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 | 1999 Nissan Z | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Shelby GT 500 | Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5409 cc | 2389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 651 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
