[Verde]

The core difference between the Z and the Porsche is the level of engineering refinement. Truth is, the new Z (and the 350) is an amazing car for the money. Powerful, good handling, stunning (IMO), reliable. Seems like the all time best sports car for the dollar. But every time I've driven a Z, I'm reminded of the coarse nature of the drivetrain. Since the 240Z and for every car in between, revving the engine is not a very satisfying experience. Harsh and unpleasant at high revs. It's almost like it's a Nissan thing. Surely they have the skills to eliminate that, but it's always there.
The Porsche on the other hand is pure smoothness. From the calm and predictable nature of the suspension, to the excellent gear whine of the transmission, to the satisfaction of running the engine to the redline, it's pure engineering excellence.
That said, it' twice the price, less absolute power and more expensive to maintain. Many people don't notice the difference in refinement and don't consider handling more critical than power in a sports car. For those people, a Z is just about perfect. I sometimes wish I was one of them. It would sure have saved me a bunch of money.
The Saturn though. I just don't get it.