What they said when the Nissan 350Z was new… (Jul 9 2003)
NISSAN believes its new Z is the last word in rapid and refined Grand Touring.
This £24,000 fifth generation Z-car is a technical tour-de-force which threatens to knock-out the domination of German sportsters in the executive coupe category.
Developed in three years from the ground up and using lessons from the Le Mans R390 racer and acclaimed Skyline GTR, the new Nissan 350Z is destined to become a classic.
On sale from 3.50pm on 23 March, the first 450 cars destined for the UK were sold within an hour and the order bank now tops 1,000.
As a result, Nissan Motor GB has secured a further 390 high specification versions costing over £28,000 which means many owners will get their new car this year instead of next.
But wait until November at least will be worth it, I can promise them.
Designed in Britain and built in Japan, the Nissan 350Z uses the proven V6 cylinder 3498cc 277bhp engine mated to a six-speed gearbox and driving the rear wheels only.
There is fully independent multi-link suspension and Brembo brakes with speed sensitive power steering.
Computers optimise traction, braking and stability and there are twin stage front, side and curtain airbags.
The steel and aluminium body has been designed to be light and aerodynamic to improve stability and rigidity and will allow for the further development of a convertible and short-wheelbase GTR derivative.
Standard equipment includes 18-inch wheels, with £1,000 RAYS alloys optional, Bose sound system, full climate control, powered windows, mirrors and leather detailing.
The interior includes seats which are differently shaped for driver and passenger, a lot of oddments space and brightwork trim highlights.
Only options for the UK are the GT pack including powered heated seats, full leather, cruise control, metallic or black paint, Alezan Orange interior and voice activated mobile phone.
Nissan Motor GB managing director Brian Carolin said the UK launch of the 350Z had exceeded expectations and he was confident the car would "appeal to the emotions" and show the world that Nissan was back.
It has become the best selling sports car in the US, where it was launched last year, and in Japan it is number one.
Tested in Germany last week, the Nissan 350Z immediately impressed with its low seating, remarkable stability and high levels of grip.
Ride quality is firm but very comfortable and the seats provide excellent support.
The powertrain gives eager and effortless acceleration, but three versions I drove had varying degrees of feel to the gearbox, and this is one unit which seems to improve as the miles pile up.
And you are going to want to drive it, particularly along winding roads where its fluidity impresses most.
Pin sharp steering and brakes further reinforce the feeling of a well sorted chassis, while interior creature comforts cacoon the occupants.
There is plenty of room in the cabin but the rear luggage deck is compromised by the reinforcing bar between the rear arches.
I averaged over 25mpg with the 350Z and have no reason to doubt the claimed maximum of close to 160mph. The 0-60mph time is sub-six seconds.
The Nissan 350Z is a very modern interpretation of a classic style but it's more remarkable than retro.
Words: Robin Roberts
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