Both wear a Nissan badge. Both have a cult following. And from the driver's seat, they couldn't feel more different. One is a calm, ferociously fast all-wheel-drive missile. The other is a loud, analogue, rear-wheel-drive manual that makes you work for every gear.
Choose the GT-R R35 if you want an automatic, all-wheel drive, rain confidence and room for friends. Choose the 350Z if you love driving a manual, want the rawest sound, and prefer the lower price. You can also book one each with a friend and drive out together on the same night.
Side by side
| Nissan GT-R R35 | Nissan 350Z (Z33) | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.8 L twin-turbo V6 | 3.5 L naturally aspirated V6 |
| Gearbox | Dual-clutch automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Drive | All-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive |
| Seats | 4 (2+2) | 2 |
| Sound | Deep, mechanical, turbo whoosh | Loud, raw V6 howl |
| In the rain | Very stable | Needs a gentler right foot |
| ARTCARS night drive | ¥79,000 per car | ¥59,000 per car |
The GT-R: Godzilla on its home turf
The R35 is the car most Tokyo operators won't let visitors drive themselves. That alone makes it special. Behind the wheel, it's calm and planted, with a dual-clutch gearbox that does the work for you. It's the easier car to drive while you get used to the left side of the road.
Choose the GT-R if:
- You only drive automatics, or don't want to shift with your left hand.
- Rain is forecast. All-wheel drive is reassuring on wet expressways.
- You're bringing friends — there are rear seats.
- You want to say you drove Godzilla in Tokyo. See self-driving the R35.
The 350Z: analogue and loud
The Z33 is a throwback to a time when sports cars had cables and a clutch pedal. It's more involving, more vocal, and asks more of you. Many manual drivers come back from a 350Z night grinning more widely than GT-R drivers.
Choose the 350Z if:
- You love a manual and want every gear change to count.
- You want sound. The Z33 is the louder, rawer car.
- You want the lower price.
- You're a fan of the 2000s tuner era. See the 350Z rental guide.
The honest trade-offs
The GT-R is wide. Tokyo's expressway lanes are narrow, so you need to concentrate on your position in the lane, especially on curved ramps. The 350Z is narrower but has a firm clutch, which you'll feel in traffic near toll gates.
- Comfort: the GT-R rides more firmly than you'd expect; the 350Z is noisier on long runs.
- Visibility: both have chunky pillars. Adjust your mirrors carefully at the briefing.
- Learning curve: the GT-R is easier on the first night; the 350Z rewards experience.
Can I drive both?
Yes. Some guests book the 350Z for the night drive and the GT-R for a 24-hour rental later in the trip. Others come with a friend and take one car each on the same night, driving out together — the best way to swap stories at Daikoku.
What about the Toyota 86?
The 86 is lighter, simpler and more playful at low speeds. It's a great introduction to rear-wheel drive. Read Toyota 86 rental in Japan.
Frequently asked questions
Which is easier to drive for a first-timer in Japan?
The GT-R. The automatic gearbox, all-wheel drive and calm chassis make it easier while you adjust to driving on the left.
Which is more fun?
That depends on you. Most manual drivers say the 350Z is more involving; most first-timers prefer the GT-R's confidence.
Can I switch cars during the night?
No. Each car stays with its registered driver for insurance reasons.
Which looks better in photos at Daikoku?
Both look great. The GT-R draws more attention from the crowd; the 350Z's shape is a photographer's favourite.