I think the thread title is a bit harsh
They're not 'that slow' but there are a lot of modern cars that are as fast/ faster than a GTS.
As most others have said, The GTS is not about outright speed and performance, but a balance of prestige, comfort, luxury, performance, looks and noise all while being able to carry 4 adults. Its pretty hard to get that right and the GTS does a bloody good job of it.
Although a bit antiquated in some respects, its a testament to how good it is that it has been able to be produced for so long. And even after all this time it still makes it into most motor press's top 10 GT cars or 4 seat sports car lists.
Ok let me ask a question. Let’s say the new coupe is out next year. Do people want a 460PS n/a V8 with a six speed ZF or a 560PS biturbo V8 with an eight speed ZF, same price?
If it wasn't for the V8 and the glorious noise it produces, I wouldn't even have considered the GTS.
YES, I would prefer it to have 50-100hp more....BUT not at the expense of the noise! No way!
IMO the 4.2GT is under powered, and for that reason I waited a few years until I could get into a decent 4.7.
If it has to be forced induction for a decent power hike on the V8, I think a supercharger would suit the GTS much better than any Turbo, keeping its linear power curve and not interfering too much with the exhaust note.
If I just wanted 0-60 times, traction, lightning gear changes, turbos and 4 seats ...I would have kept my Nissan GT-R.
In the 3 years I owned it, I didn't come across anything that could 'beat' it, but still, I sold it for a GTS-MC-shift. There's more to being a petrolhead than speed.