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2008 Nissan 350Z Coupe
2008 Nissan 350Z Coupe
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Combining thrilling performance with civilized comfort, the Nissan 350Z Coupe is a worthy contender among many rougher and costlier sports cars.
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The Nissan 350Z Coupe comes powered by a strong 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces just above 300 horsepower. It lacks the sheer muscle and bragging rights of a V8, but this engine is still able to take the car to 60 mph in around 5.5 seconds, and it gets reasonably good fuel economy. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard on the Nissan 350Z Coupe, and it adds to the car’s sporty flair. A five-speed automatic transmission is optional in all versions but the base coupe.
The rear-wheel-drive Nissan 350Z Coupe rides on the latest generation of the automaker’s so-called "front midship" platform. Enthusiasts favor rear-wheel drive for its superior balance, which aids handling, improves steering feel, and allows better power delivery from the engine to the wheels.
• Nissan 350Z Coupe Vehicle Summary
With nearly ideal balance (53/47 front-to-rear weight distribution) and a lightweight aluminum four-wheel independent suspension, the Nissan 350Z Coupe has stellar driving dynamics. Standard 18-inch wheels and tires, four-wheel antilock disc brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, and a speed-sensitive power-steering system are additional benefits.
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Top models of the Nissan 350Z Coupe also include chassis control systems like Vehicle Dynamic Control for added handling prowess over a wide range of conditions and driving situations.
You want a quick, nimble, and fun sports car that’s comfortable enough for daily driving and highway cruising; you're looking for performance but don't want to spend a lot.
You require more than two seats; you want a convertible, in which case you should consider the Nissan 350Z Roadster; you’re a power monger and like burly V8s.
The stylish cockpit welcomes two average-size adults, though, as with most sports cars of this size, larger riders may crave more room.
The Z continues to be sold in Japan under its original name, the Fairlady. The first 240Z sold for $3,526, a bargain in 1970. It was powered by a peppy, 2.5-liter six-cylinder engine. It became an instant smash hit for Nissan’s fledgling U.S. arm, then called Datsun. It outsold not only the competition from Fiat, MG, and Triumph, but the venerable Chevrolet Corvette as well. Original Z cars remain among the few collectible Japanese vehicles from the early 1970s. Over the years, the Z grew in size and power, and became bloated in the process. Sales suffered, and the car took a six-year hiatus in the U.S. It was redesigned and relaunched here for the 2003 model year as a true driving enthusiast’s car. Its rev-happy engine, precise handling, and head-turning styling pay homage to the original. A convertible model (reviewed separately) was added for the 2004 model year.
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