Nissan Z

The Nissan 370Z, also known as the Fairlady Z version S', is a coupé and roadster built by Nissan Motor Company. It was introduced as early as October 28, 2008 on the web and officially debuted at the 2008 LA Auto Show. It is the sixth generation of Nissan's Z-car line, carrying the chassis designation Z34.

See Wikicars' comprehensive Nissan 370Z Review.

Recent Changes

 * At the 2011 Tokyo Auto Salon, Nissan finally unveiled the NISMO version of the JDM Fairlady Z. Along with engine output that is increased to 261kW(355PS), a higher level of sporty handling is realized through special body and suspension tuning and modification of the power steering characteristics. For the exterior, excellent aerodynamic performance is achieved through use of special body components providing greater downforce and reduced air resistance.


 * Nissan also added the Grand Touring trim to the Roadster trim packages for 2005. Since the anniversary edition, all 6-speed models are now the 300-hp/260 ft·lbs. output version.


 * In 2004, Nissan introduced the 350Z Roadster version. The roadster came in 2 trim packages, the Enthusiast and Touring editions.


 * In the UK two versions of the 350Z were available from October 2003, namely the Base and GT packages. The GT pack had leather seats, uprated Bose Stereo system and cruise control over the Base model. Pricing in the UK was set at £24,000 for the Base model and £26.5,000 for the GT pack.


 * Released on August 20, 2002, the 2003 350Z was available in the US in 5 trim packages, including the Base, Enthusiast, Performance,Touring, and Track Editions. Pricing started in the $26,000 range for a Base, and went beyond $34,000 for the Track model. Nissan's performance and motorsport division, Nismo, began producing performance and aesthetic upgrades for the 350Z shortly after its release.

Styles and Major Options
The Nissan 350Z comes in 5 different trims:

Base
 * 3.5L DOHC 24-valve V6 engine
 * 6-speed manual transmission
 * 18" aluminum-alloy wheels
 * High Intensity Discharge bi-xenon headlights
 * Automatic Temperature Control
 * CD audio system

Enthusiast adds on:
 * Viscous limited-slip rear differential
 * Traction Control System
 * Cruise Control
 * Auto dimming rear view mirror with HomeLink® Universal Transceiver
 * Aluminum pedals
 * Illuminated steering wheel-mounted audio controls

Touring adds on:
 * Vehicle Dynamic Control (M/T only)
 * Bose® audio system with in-dash 6-CD changer
 * 7 speakers, including 10" Nd® subwoofer
 * MP3 CD-ROM capability
 * Leather-appointed seats
 * Power heated seats

Track adds on:
 * Brembo® braking system
 * Front chin spoiler
 * Rear spoiler
 * Rear underbody diffusers
 * 18-inch (front) and 19-inch (rear) RAYS® super-lightweight forged alloy wheels
 * P245/40WR18 (front) and P265/35WR19 (rear) high-performance tires

Grand Touring adds on:
 * Brembo® braking system
 * 18-inch (front) and 19-inch (rear) RAYS® super-lightweight forged alloy wheels
 * P245/40WR18 (front) and P265/35WR19 (rear) high-performance tires
 * Front chin spoiler, rear underbody diffusers, and rear spoiler
 * Bose® audio system with in-dash 6-CD changer
 * Leather-appointed seats

Pricing
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Today's actual prices for the 2006 Nissan 350Z can be found at CarsDirect.

Gas Mileage
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As seen on the FuelEconomy.gov website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

Engine and Transmission

 * Engine: 3.5L VQ35DE V6 engine
 * Output:
 * 300-hp (223kW) / 260ft·lbs (352N·m) 35th Anniversary 6-speed manual, 2005 Track Edition and all 2006 models with 6-speed manual transmission
 * 287-hp (214kW) / 274ft·lbs (371N·m) 35th Anniversary automatic, all 2006 models with automatic transmission and all other models from 2003 to 2005

Performance

 * Acceleration: 0 to 60 MPH: 5.3 seconds and the quarter mile in 13.6 seconds @ 100 MPH (as tested by Motor Trend) (the current model.)
 * Top speed: 156 MPH (251 km/h) electronically limited

Reliability

 * RECALL ALERT: On Oct 15 2008, Nissan issued a recall affecting 200,000 Nissans including all 2007 and 2008 350Zs due to a faulty front passenger side airbag sensor that could fail to detect the presence of a passenger, thus, preventing the deployment of the airbag. Owners are urged to contact 1-800-647-7261 or their nearest dealer to get the system replace free of charge.

Safety

 * 5-Star Side-Impact Safety Rating Crumple Zones
 * Side-Impact Beams
 * Hood Buckling Creases Vehicle Security System
 * Immobilizer

Photos
Nissan 350Z Pictures - interior and exterior

Colors
Exterior
 * Daytona Blue Metallic
 * Interlagos Fire Metallic
 * Le Mans Sunset Metallic
 * Magnetic Black Pearl
 * Pikes Peak White Pearl
 * Redline
 * Silver Alloy Metallic
 * Silverstone Metallic
 * Gun Metallic

Interior
 * Red - ''available only on the Base, Enthusiast, and Track models.
 * Burnt Orange - ''available only on the Touring and Green models.
 * Charcoal - ''available only on the Touring and Grand Touring models.
 * Frost - ''available only on the Touring and Grand Touring models.

Main Competitors

 * BMW Z4
 * Chrysler Crossfire
 * Ford Mustang
 * Honda S2000
 * Toyota MR2
 * Mercedes-Benz SLK
 * Audi TT
 * Porsche Boxster

Hybrid Models
At this time, Nissan has no plans to create a hybrid version of the 350Z. They've announced five new models as part of the "2007 Shift_2.0" slogan, yet they are only inroducing one hybrid vehicle, the Nissan Altima Hybrid.

Unique Attributes
The 270Z has a reasonable value for money with outstanding performance for a car at that price.The 370Z also provides a great quality that feels like a more expensive car.

Resale Values
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References in Popular Culture
In the export version of the arcade driving game "Wangan Midnight" Tatsuya Shima used a specially tuned Z33 called "Black Bird" (which is a Porsche 911 instead in the Japanese version), and is one of the three fastest cars in the game. The 350Z is also the feature car for the driving simulator game "Gran Turismo 4", for which a "GT4 Edition" was especially developed (the body kit was penned by the creators of the game and is available in Japan). The 350Z also features in variety of import racing games, such as the "Need for Speed" series, except need for speed most wanted in which no cars of Nissan manufacture were included, "Street Racing Syndicate", and "Juiced", as well as racing games imported from Japan such as "Battle Gear 3 Tuned", "Battle Gear 4", the "Tokyo Xtreme Racer" series and "D1 Grand Prix 2005".

The Nissan 350Z is also featured in the 2006 action movie, "The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift." It is the primary villain's vehicle and many of "D.K.'s" henchman also sport 350Zs.

Criticisms
While the 350Z has received much praise in certain quarters, it has received a fair amount of criticism as well. Among the complaints are:
 * 1) the car is extremely heavy, muting the sporty feeling during acceleration.
 * 2) The weight also means that, in order to handle like a sports car, the suspension must be extremely stiff, resulting in a very uncomfortable ride for many people.
 * 3) The lack of engine refinement and noise is also a major criticism.
 * 4) Another problem is the poor quality of materials used on the interior, and a lack of attention to ergonomic design.

When the RACV tested the 370Z, the criticisms they noted are it's poor visibility and the expensive prices.

"Noticable engine, transmission and tyre noise keeps the driver constantly aware of what is happening, but sadly the car lacks a decent exhaust note, which is a fundamental part of the sports car image." Royal Auto

Generations
Fill in as many as appropriate. Add more if necessary and pictures wherever applicable.

Please make sure NOT to use copyrighted pictures.

Fifth generation - Z33 (2003–2008)
In 2005, Nissan added the "35th Anniversary edition." The 2005 35th Anniversary edition (6-speed manual only; the automatic was limited to 287-hp) and 2005 Track trims both produce 300-hp (224 kW) - exactly twice the output of the original 1969 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the 35th Anniversary edition came with special options such as metallic yellow/orange paint and 5-spoke wheels. The 35th Anniversary 350Z also included revised pistons and camshaft profiles, and a new type of control to the variable valve timing. These changes lead to an increase in the engine's power 6400 rpm instead of 6200rpm. Although there were increases in horsepower, the changes lead to a decrease in overall torque in the vehicle.

See Wikicars' comprehensive Nissan 350Z Review.

Overall dimensions

Length: 4315 mm

Width: 1970 mm

Height: 1320 mm

Wheelbase: 2650 mm

Fourth generation - Z32 (1990-1999)
The Z32 was a complete redesign. It featured a naturally aspirated engine rated at 222-hp, and a top-of-the-line Twin-Turbo version rated at 300-hp (224 kW) at 9.5 psi (66 kPa) of boost through two intercoolers. A naturally aspirated convertible model was also introduced in 1993. Twin Turbo models were not offered as a 2+2 or convertible in the United States.

The twin-turbo Z32s can be spotted with a different front bumper featuring three vents for supplying air to the dual intercoolers, as opposed to the naturally aspirated (NA) models. They also came with the requisite "Twin Turbo" badging in the rear and a subtle tail spoiler, which was enlarged and redesigned in 1994. It also featured larger 245/45-16 and 16x8.5 wheels in the back as opposed to the 225/50-16 tires in front and on the NA version.

One major difference between the VG30E(T) in the Z31 and the VG30DE(TT) placed in the Z32 was the dual overhead cam design and variable valve timing system.

The platform was new, with a longer 97-in wheelbase and sophisticated multi-link suspension front and rear. Twin Turbo models featured electronically adjustable shock absorbers, and Nissan's all-wheel-steering system SUPER HICAS (Super High Capacity Actively Controlled Suspension), which could turn the rear wheels a full two degrees at speed.

In 1991, as well as in 1995 for the "Z's 25th Anniversary", Steve Millen, a famous race-car driver from New Zealand, built a limited-edition run of 300 tuned 300ZXs, known as the SMZ, through his company Stillen. These cars had features such as flamboyant bodywork and paint and extensive performance upgrades, resulting in 460 bhp (343 kW) for the 1991 edition and 365-hp (272 kW) for the 1995 edition.

The Z32 was discontinued in 1996 in North America due to dwindling sales figures, heightened smog regulations, and rising production costs. The price of a Twin Turbo 300ZX rose to US $45,000 that year, too high for many consumers and far from the $27,000 price it had started with. Production of the Z32 continued in Japan until 2000 through a major redesign in 1998, in naturally aspirated 2-seater, 2+2 seater, and "R" versions, which were 2+2 twin turbo models (as pictured above).

Third generation - Z31 (1984-1989)
The Z31 chassis designation was first introduced in 1983 as a 1984 model and the third-generation Datsun/Nissan Z-car. The car was designated as a Datsun/Nissan 300ZX in its 1984 premiere, but the Datsun badge was dropped in 1985 when Nissan standardised their brand name worldwide. The car was designed by Kazumasu Takagi and his team of developers, and featured a new, more aerodynamic body than its 280ZX predecessor. It also had a more powerful line-up of V6 engines instead of the old I6 used in the 280ZX. According to Nissan, "the V6 engine was supposed to re-create the spirit of the original Fairlady Z." (Datsun 280 Nissan 300ZX, p.65) This new V6 (2960 cc) SOHC engine was available as a naturally-aspirated VG30E or a turbocharged VG30ET producing 160 and 200 horsepower respectively. The engines were either a type A or type B series engine from 1984-1986 and later a W series from 1987-1989 which produced 165 and 205 horsepower.

On the home market, the list of models included the 3.0L 300ZX and the 2.0L Z, ZG, ZR, and ZR II spec. The 300ZX in Japan was not subject to tough emissions regulations as in the US therefore producing 230 horsepower. The 2.0L models used either a VG20ET, then later the RB20ET engine and developed between 170-180 horsepower. This was to, "make the most of the local taxation laws." (Datsun 280 Nissan 300ZX)

The chassis remained somewhat similar to the 280ZX, with the same 91.3-inch (2319 mm) wheelbase and MacPherson strut/trailing arm independent suspension, however the 300ZX both handled and accelerated better than the 280ZX it replaced. All turbo charged models (except for the SS Special Edition) featured 3-way electronically adjustable shock absorbers.

There were also two special models produced. In 1984, the 300ZX "50th Anniversary Edition" was released in celebration of the company's 50th anniversary. In 1988 Nissan released a pearl white 300ZX "Shiro Special" (SS) with stiffer springs, matched shocks and no available options. There were no stellar differences setting the SS apart from a regular 1988 model 300ZX Turbo except for the pearl white paint, front air dam, wheels, Recaro seats, firmer suspension and a viscous limited-slip differential in place of the clutch type.

Due to its quickly aging design, the "Z31" body was slightly restyled in 1986 with the addition of side skirts, and removal of the hood scoop for a much smoother look. The old fiberglass spoiler was replaced with a more durable plastic one, and a third brake-light was incorporated within the unit for safety. The car was given a final makeover in 1987 that included more aerodynamic bumpers, fog lamps within the front air dam, and replacement of the sealed beam style headlights with more modern 9004 bulb based lights. The "300ZX" reflector in the rear was replaced by a narrow set of tail lights running the entire width of the car, and a 3rd brake-light located on the top of the rear hatch. A few minor engine changes were made which consisted of a smaller T25 turbocharger, a compression ratio of 8.3:1, and an R200 limited slip differential for quick response. The car continued selling until 1989 and sold more than any other Z car made to date with over 70,000 units sold in 1985 alone. In 1990, Nissan replaced this very successful car with the Z32, and was a complete redesign version of the Z31. It was also called the 300ZX because it retained the 3.0L engine and 2960 cc displacement.

Second generation - 280ZX (1979-1983)


The Nissan 280ZX was a sports coupe produced from 1979 to 1983. It was the second-generation Z-car, replacing the Nissan 280Z in 1979. This generation was replaced by the new Nissan 300ZX in 1984. The 280ZX was Motor Trends "Import Car of the Year" for 1979.

The 280ZX was a complete redesign, retaining only the L28 engine and other driveline components. A turbo option was introduced,bring the 280ZX's stock performance above the level of the original 240Z for the first time.

The 280ZX shared the Nissan 510's platform and suspension, with MacPherson struts in front and trailing arm independent rear. The wheelbase was down from its predecessor at just 91.3-inches, and a 2+2 version was offered as well.

The 280ZX was branded in the American market as the Datsun 280ZX.

A turbocharged model (L28ET engine rated at 180-hp was introduced in 1981. In the US market it was initially available with a 3-speed automatic transmission. In 1982 and 1983, the 280ZX Turbo was also available with a Borg-Warner T-5 5-speed manual transmission (this was the first Nissan which used a non-Japanese transmission; the T-5 was also used in the GM F-bodies and Ford Mustang).

240Z (1969-1973)


The S30 Nissan/Datsun 240Z (known in Japan as the "Fairlady Z" and later in other markets as the 260Z and 280Z) are sports cars produced by Nissan Motors, Ltd. of Japan in the 1970s. HLS30 was the designation of the left-hand drive model and HS30 for the right-hand drive model. The 240Z was introduced in 1969 with a 2.4 liter straight-6 engine, rear wheel drive, and a stylish coupe body. The engine, based on the Datsun 510's 4-cylinder produced 150-hp (112 kW) and came with a 5-speed manual transmission (USA model received a 4 speed manual). A 4 wheel independent suspension consisted of MacPherson struts in front (borrowed from the Nissan 1800) and Chapman struts in back. Front disc brakes & rear drums were standard.

Production began in 1969, the 1970 240Z was introduced to the American market by Yutaka Katayama, president of Nissan Motors USA operations, widely known as 'Mr. K'. The early 1970 model 240Z had a chrome "240" badge on the B-pillar quarter panel. Two vents were included in the rear hatch below the glass molding. In mid-1971 the B-pillar side badges were restyled with the letter Z in white, and the vents were eliminated from the hatch. Design changes for the US model occurred throughout production and are described Design and Manufacturing Changes to the U.S. Spec

The 240Z and 260Z used twin one-barrel carburetors. The carburetors were changed for model year 1973 to comply with emissions regulations, and the earlier carburetors were far superior for performance. Fuel injection (L-Jetronic electronic fuel injection, designed by Bosch) was added for the 280Z in 1975. This was primarily in order to cope with the difficulty faced in getting enough power using carburetors while still meeting US emissions regulations.

Due to its relatively low price compared to other foreign sports cars of the time (Jaguar and Porsche), it became hugely popular in the U.S. and was the first major success for the Nissan Motor Corporation, which at the time sold cars in North America under the name Datsun. The 240Z also broadened the image of Japanese car-makers beyond their econobox success. The Z was very successful in racing in the 1970's (Bob Bondurant and his BRE racing team was particularly successful). The Z is also credited as a catalyst for the current import performance parts industry.

In 2004, Sports Car International named this car "number two" on the list of Top Sports Cars of the 1970s.

The 240Z is dubbed "the poor man's E-Type Jaguar".

260Z (1974)
The engine was enlarged with a longer stroke to 2.6L for the 260Z in 1974. A 2+2 seating option added with an extra 11.9-inches of wheelbase. This engine was sold in the United States for the 1974 model year only, but was available in other countries until 1979. In the US, federal emissions' regulations forced a reduction in ignition timing and compression ratio, resulting in a lower power output (140-hp) despite the additional displacement, whereas in other countries the power output actually increased to 161-hp. A 3-speed automatic transmission was an option to the standard 4-speed manual.

Most USA residents regard the 260Z as the least desirable of the line, because of the reduced performance. This has resulted in lower prices on average for the 260Z.

The 260Z also claimed a few improvements over the 240Z. The climate controls were more sensibly laid out, and easier to work, and there was additional stiffness in the chassis due to a redesign of the chassis rails which were larger and extended further back than in the 240Z. The American model also featured heavier, safer, impact-absorbing bumpers.

Cosmetic changes included a redesigned dashboard/center console, seat trim, door panels, and redesigned rear tail lights.

280Z (1975-1978)


Engine size was up again, to 2.8L, by increasing the bore of the L26 engine for the 280Z in late 1975, and fuel injection was added. Heavier impact absorbing bumpers were added in 1975(USA markets only). A 5-speed manual transmission was added as an option for the USA in 1977.

In 1978, Datsun offered a special edition "Black Pearl" 280z with all options standard. It sported black pearl paint and a unique stripe-kit. It is estimated that somewhere between 850-1500 cars were produced.

Other non USA markets continued to receive the 260Z with the L26. Also, 280Z 2+2 -the two-door, four-seat model.

The S30/S31 series Z car was replaced in 1979 by the S130 Nissan 280ZX

Design quirks and oddities
Type-E

A limited run (only 5 units) variant, called the Type-E, was produced in Japan. This version featured a longer nose and rear overhang as well as a few extra aerodynamic aids. The reason for this was that the Super GT 500 class race car variant of the Z needed radically revised aerodynamics for it to be competitive; the Type-E then was produced so that the race car could meet homologation regulations. This practice of building homologation specials is not uncommon among manufacturers, the Type-Es contemporary being the Honda NSX-R GT, which also featured revised body work to allow the race car to meet homologation rules.

S-Tune GT

Nismo have released a special version of the Z called the S-Tune GT, to celebrate Nismo and the Z's success in motorsports (particularly in the Super GT series). The S-Tune GT features revised long nose bodywork first seen in the Type-E homologation special. Nismo then added a modified version of the VQ35DE engine called the "S1" with more power (300ps) and higher rev-limit (7200rpm) as well as a sportier Nismo suspension.

450Z

There have been rumours that Nissan is planning to release a "450Z" coupe to rival the Porsche 911. The car will feature a 4.5L V8 engine (most likely a version of the VK45DE currently used in the Infiniti M and tuned to over 400-hp and all-wheel drive. The body will remain the same as that of the 350Z.

Alpine car

Another rumour is that the French brand "Alpine" (a manufacturer of Renault-powered sports cars) would be resurrected to offer a new car based on the platform of the 350Z, developed with the support of Porsche.

350Z's bootspace

In the Nissan 350Z, you can fit two full-size golf bags.

The 370Z coupe looks like a gorolla-like creature in Rogue Galaxy.

Awards

 * The Nissan 350Z was nominated for the North American Car of the Year award for 2003.
 * The 350Z was also on Car and Driver magazine's 10 Best list in 2003.
 * 2010 Drive Best Convertible (Nominee)