I think by definition, nightshots are taken without using flash.. instead the ambient light is captured to make an exposure. At night, this can take very long exposure times... 30 seconds or even more.
So absolutely a good tripod is worth it's weight in gold.
I do think lenses can play a big role in night photography because anytime light passes through matter (glass or plastic) it changes... Better quality lenses can decrease the amount of impact that change has on the overall image.
For those with P&S cameras, a tiny aperture (opening) and a small lens is going to distort your image considerably.. so in this respect, i do think equipment matters.
That said, you may be very happy with the images your camera produces at night... it depends on the application:
For example, Michael Kenna (
Michael Kenna Photography ) is an accomplished night photographer who's style could be mimic'd with most point and shoots. (Technically only.. In terms of composition, Michael Kenna's images are superb.)
Whereas Tom Paiva (
Tom Paiva Photography ) has a more journalistic style and sharpness is definitely forefront in his imagery. High quality lenses are a must to produce images of this caliber. I really enjoy Tom's images.
So again, as in almost every element of design (if not life) there is no true 'one' answer.
Mike.