NISSAN 370Z
The Nissan 370Z is a two-seat sports coupe and roadster produced from 2009 to 2020, known for its sharp handling and rear-wheel-drive layout. It is powered by a naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6 engine producing between 332 and 350 horsepower, depending on the variant. Transmission options include a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic, both mated to a limited-slip differential for improved traction. The car features a front mid-engine configuration with an aluminum subframe and lightweight materials to reduce weight. Fuel economy ranges from approximately 18 to 26 miles per gallon in combined city and highway driving, depending on the transmission and model year. Interior space is limited, with seating strictly for two and trunk capacity around 6.9 cubic feet, making it more focused on performance than practicality. Key safety features include stability control, antilock brakes, multiple airbags, and available traction control on most models.
Strengths of the 370Z include its strong and responsive V6 engine, direct and engaging handling, and a generally robust reliability record with few major mechanical issues reported. It maintains good resale value for an affordable sports car in its segment. However, weaknesses are notable in its dated interior design and limited technology compared to modern rivals, as well as a cramped cabin with minimal rear storage utility. Some owners have reported occasional premature wear on suspension bushings and minor electrical gremlins. Fuel economy can feel poor for daily driving, especially with the manual transmission. Overall, it excels as a pure driver’s car at the expense of daily comfort and contemporary amenities.
Key specs and highlights
The Nissan 370Z is equipped with a 3.7-liter VQ-series V6 engine that produces between 332 and 350 horsepower, depending on the trim level and model year. Torque output is roughly 270 to 276 lb-ft. The drivetrain is rear-wheel drive, paired with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic transmission featuring paddle shifters on later models. The chassis incorporates a front aluminum subframe and a multi-link rear suspension for agile handling. Performance variations include the NISMO version, which offers upgraded suspension components, stiffer springs, and aerodynamic enhancements such as a front chin spoiler and rear wing. The Coupe and Roadster body styles are available, with the Roadster adding a power-operated soft top. The wheelbase measures about 100 mm shorter than its predecessor, improving maneuverability, and curb weight hovers near 3,300 pounds. Interior space is compact, offering two dedicated seats with limited cargo volume around 6.9 cubic feet. Safety features include stability and traction control, dual front airbags, side impact airbags, and ABS brakes.
The technology package on well-equipped models includes Bluetooth connectivity, a navigation system in later years, and a premium audio system. The drag coefficient hovers around 0.30 for the standard models, slightly improved to 0.29 for NISMO versions, aiding high-speed stability. The 370Z also features Nissan’s SynchroRev Match technology on manual transmissions from the NISMO package, which automatically blips the throttle for smoother downshifts. These specifications highlight the 370Z as a focused, traditional sports car emphasizing driving purity.
Driving experience
The Nissan 370Z offers a tight and communicative driving experience, with crisp steering feedback and a chassis tuned for spirited cornering. Suspension tuning is sport-oriented, delivering firm but controllable ride comfort that can feel stiff over rough roads, especially in NISMO variants. Acceleration is brisk thanks to the naturally aspirated V6, achieving 0-60 mph times around 5 seconds in manual versions. The engine’s high-revving character and responsive throttle make it enjoyable for enthusiastic drivers. Braking performance is strong, with large vented discs and well-modulated pedal feel.
Cabin noise is moderate but can be intrusive at highway speeds due to limited sound insulation, which reflects its sports car focus. Seating is supportive with bolstered bucket seats, though some drivers may find the controls and interior ergonomics dated and less refined compared with contemporary competitors. Visibility forward is acceptable, but rearward visibility can be restricted due to the car’s muscular rear pillars and small rear window, impacting parking ease. The rear seats are virtually nonexistent in the coupe and unused in practice, which confines the car’s usability to two occupants. Overall, the 370Z excels as a driver’s car but compromises comfort and everyday practicality.
Trims and equipment
The Nissan 370Z was generally offered in Base and Touring trims, along with a Sport package that added performance and appearance upgrades. The NISMO trim represented the most track-focused and highly equipped version, featuring a more powerful 350-horsepower engine, upgraded suspension components, larger brakes, and exclusive styling cues such as a more aggressive front fascia, rear spoiler, and special wheels. Key options across the range included navigation systems, Bose audio upgrades, and leather upholstery on higher trim levels.
The NISMO package is considered a must-have for enthusiasts seeking sharper handling and enhanced visual appeal, whereas Base models provide the core sports car experience at a more accessible price point. Options like the SynchroRev Match function are exclusive to the NISMO manual. Roadsters share most equipment with coupes but add a retractable soft top and slightly different suspension tuning to accommodate convertible dynamics. Buyers should prioritize proper features like stability control and premium brakes to ensure comprehensive safety and performance.
Reliability and maintenance
The Nissan 370Z is generally reliable, with the VQ37VHR engine known for durability and longevity when properly maintained. Regular service intervals include oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles and scheduled inspections of suspension and braking components. Commonly reported issues revolve around premature wear of suspension bushings and occasional electrical quirks such as sensor malfunctions or minor wiring glitches. No widespread engine or transmission failures have been documented extensively.
Routine maintenance costs are moderate compared to other sports cars, with parts availability benefiting from the engine’s shared use in other Nissan models. Enthusiasts should monitor early model years for any factory recalls or software updates and ensure clutch and transmission components receive attention if purchasing manual-transmission variants. Preventive care and careful use of performance upgrades will extend vehicle life and preserve driving dynamics.
Fuel economy and running costs
Fuel economy for the Nissan 370Z ranges from approximately 18-19 mpg in city driving to 25-26 mpg on highways, depending on transmission choice and trim level. Manual versions tend toward the lower end of this range due to more spirited driving behavior typical of enthusiasts, while automatic-equipped cars may achieve slightly better figures. Real-world fuel consumption often reflects these factory estimates with some variability based on driving style.
The 370Z’s insurance and depreciation costs are moderate for a sports car. It retains value reasonably well with strong brand recognition but is notably less fuel efficient than smaller engines or newer turbocharged rivals. The use of premium gasoline is recommended to maintain optimal performance and engine health, which adds moderate running costs. Overall, owners should expect higher than average fuel expenses relative to typical sedans but reasonable ongoing maintenance expenditure.
Safety and driver assistance
Key safety features on the Nissan 370Z include electronic stability control, traction control, and antilock braking systems. Dual front airbags and side curtain airbags provide crash protection. The car’s chassis and body structure are engineered to meet modern crash safety standards. However, it lacks advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, or automatic emergency braking across its model run.
Safety ratings generally position the 370Z as competent for its class, but some rivals offer more comprehensive protection technology. Drivers must rely heavily on their skill and awareness given the car’s high-performance nature and limited electronic aids. The absence of newer passive and active safety tech contributes to the car’s driver-focused ethos but also defines its practical limitations for everyday commuting or family use.
Model history and changes
The Nissan 370Z debuted in 2009 as a successor to the 350Z, featuring a shorter wheelbase and increased engine displacement to 3.7 liters. This generation marked a refinement over the previous Z models, trading off some interior space for improved handling agility. Major updates during its production included slight power increases, introduction of the NISMO performance variant, and cosmetic facelifts in 2015 with revised front and rear styling and additional technology like built-in USB and updated infotainment.
The Roadster version was added in 2010 with a power-folding soft top, broadening its appeal. Overall, the 370Z retained its fundamental sporty character and manual gearbox option until production ended in 2020. The NISMO versions from 2009-2013 and updated 2015 models are especially sought after for their superior handling and exclusive features. Later years did not introduce significant performance enhancements but improved refinement and creature comforts.
Competitors and alternatives
The Nissan 370Z competes with the Mazda MX-5 Miata, Toyota GR86, and Subaru BRZ in the affordable sports coupe segment. Compared to the Miata, the 370Z has a more powerful V6 engine and a heavier, more muscular stance, but less nimble handling and worse fuel economy. Against the GR86 and BRZ, the 370Z offers higher horsepower and robust acceleration but lacks some modern technology and interior refinement that the newer twins provide.
While the 370Z is a classic rear-wheel-drive sports car with a focus on raw driving pleasure, its rivals excel in lightweight agility and higher-tech cabins. Buyers prioritizing engine power and traditional sports-car feel often favor the 370Z, whereas those seeking a more balanced, updated sports car may lean toward the Japanese twins.
Buying advice and verdict
The Nissan 370Z is ideal for buyers who value pure driving engagement and strong V6 performance in a classic two-seat sports car format. It suits enthusiasts wanting a manual transmission and rear-wheel drive without the cost and complexity of supercars. Pros include a durable engine, responsive chassis, and iconic design with an established enthusiast community.
Cons include a cramped interior, outdated infotainment, and fuel economy that lags behind modern sports cars. Prospective buyers should check for suspension wear, clutch condition, and overall maintenance history, especially on older or high-mileage examples. The NISMO trims offer the best performance and should be prioritized if the budget allows.
In summary, the Nissan 370Z remains a compelling sports car for drivers seeking an engaging experience with predictable handling and a strong engine, but it requires acceptance of compromises in technology and everyday practicality.