The pixel pitch of APSC @24MP tends to bring out the best in GOOD lenses.....this would take about 57MP in full frame. 32 MP on APSC tends to max out most lenses and begins to show more motion blurring..... .
I currently am using a z8 and z6ii but am hanging on to the D500. I would like to go all in for mirrorless but Nikon so far hasn't built a replacement for the D500. I like using the 500 with a longer lens since it turns the 200-500 into a 300-750. The z crop sensor cameras are not a replacement in my opinion but more of an entry-level camera. Does anyone think a more professional/enthusiast crop sensor body is likely?
Just shoot your Z8 in DX mode and you have a better DX camera than the D500.