Nissan 350Z

Last updated
Nissan 350Z (Z33)
2004 Nissan 350Z 3.5 Front.jpg
Overview
Manufacturer Nissan
Also called
  • Nissan Fairlady Z
Production
  • July 2002 – 2008 (Coupe)
  • 2003–2007 (Roadster)
Assembly
Designer Ajay Panchal at Nissan Design America (2000)
Body and chassis
Class Sports car (S)
Body style
Layout Front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive
Platform Nissan FM platform
Related
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission
5-speed RE5R05A automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,649 mm (104.3 in)
Length
  • 4,303 mm (169.4 in) (2003–2005)
  • 4,314 mm (169.8 in) (2006–2008)
Width1,816 mm (71.5 in)
Height
  • 1,318 mm (51.9 in) (2003–2005 Hatch)
  • 1,328 mm (52.3 in) (2003–2005 Roadster)
  • 1,324 mm (52.1 in) (2006–2008 Hatch)
  • 1,334 mm (52.5 in) (2006–2008 Roadster)
Curb weight 3,117.4–3,602 lb (1,414.0–1,633.8 kg)
Chronology
Predecessor Nissan 300ZX (Z32)
Successor Nissan 370Z (Z34)

The Nissan 350Z (known as Nissan Fairlady Z (Z33) in Japan) is a two-door, two-seater sports car that was manufactured by Nissan Motor Corporation from 2002 until 2009 and marks the fifth generation of Nissan's Z-car line. The 350Z entered production in 2002 and was sold and marketed as a 2003 model from August 2002. The first year there was only a coupe, as the roadster did not debut until the following year. Initially, the coupe came in Base, Enthusiast, Performance, Touring and Track versions, while the Roadster was limited to Enthusiast and Touring trim levels. The Track trim came with lightweight wheels and Brembo brakes, but its suspension tuning was the same as all other coupes. The Nissan 350Z was succeeded by the 370Z for the 2009 model year.

Contents

Background

After the Nissan 300ZX was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 1996, Nissan initially tried to keep the Z name alive by re-creating the 240Z the following year. The car was conceived by Nissan's North American design team in their free time, and the concept was introduced in a four state Road Show in July 1998 to various car media, dealers, and employees. Yutaka Katayama, regarded as the "Father of the Z" unveiled the Z concept sketch to the public when he received a motor industry award. The design, representing a modern vision of the 240Z, did not please the original 240Z designer Yoshihiko Matsuo, who compared it to the Bluebird and Leopard. [1] [2]

The 240Z concept was produced for the Detroit Motor Show during the following August and September. Nissan was unhappy with the first design as they felt the original 200 bhp (149 kW; 203 PS) 2.4 L KA24DE engine that was going to be assigned made the car feel underpowered. They also felt the car was considered too "retro" or too "backward" resembling a futuristic 240Z; hence, a redesign was commissioned. During a press conference in February 2000, president Carlos Ghosn announced plans to produce the car as he felt the new model would help to assist the company's recovery. [1]

The Z Concept was unveiled in Detroit Motor Show two years later, which was similar in body shape but with a new front end. The car then underwent a minor redesign and was eventually assigned the 3.5 L VQ35DE engine, hence becoming known as the 350Z. [1]

Concept models

240Z concept (1999)

The 240Z Concept displayed in the same "Lemans Sunset" color seen on the 350Z Conceptz.jpg
The 240Z Concept displayed in the same "Lemans Sunset" color seen on the 350Z

Nissan unveiled the 240Z concept car at the 1999 North American International Auto Show, then later at the Los Angeles Auto Expo. The concept was based primarily on a design sketch by Manny Baker of Nissan's California design studio. In a reference to the original, it was a bright orange two-seater with swept-back styling. It was a fully functional car with its 2.4 L 4-cylinder KA24DE engine from the Nissan Altima producing 200 bhp (149 kW) and 180 lb⋅ft (244 N⋅m) of torque, and not the Z-car's traditional 6-cylinder engine. It was thought a less than worthy successor to the line. [3] [4] The designers used an original 240Z to provide inspiration and the concept was created in only 12 weeks. Automotive critics described "it would be cool but get a new model." [5] This design served the intended purpose of creating interest, in the public and the corporation, for a new Z car.

Design and layout

The 350Z is a front mid engine, [6] rear-wheel-drive, two-door, two-seat sports car primarily designed by Ajay Panchal, part of a design team led by Diane Allen of Nissan Design America in San Diego, California in 2000. [7] This program was inspired by the successful reception to the 1998 240Z concept model.

The vehicle has the long-hood short-deck design common to the Z-Car family. External design highlights include: sloping fastback style arched roof line, unique brushed aluminum door handles, high waistline, and bulging fenders that are pushed out to the corners of the vehicle.

The Interior design has brushed aluminum accents. The main gauge pod is mounted directly to the steering column allowing its movement to coincide with steering wheel adjustments. Additional gauges are mounted in a center triple gauge cluster (similar to the 240Z/260Z/280Z). Touring models are equipped with the Bose sound system, a six CD changer and a 8-inch Bose subwoofer mounted behind the driver's seat. The 350Z's interior does not have a conventional glove box, but has storage compartments located behind and between the two seats.

Models

2003 Nissan 350Z (Z33) Track coupe (2012-10-26).jpg
Coupe (pre-facelift)
Nissan 350Z rear 20070518.jpg
Roadster (pre-facelift)
Second facelift Nissan 350Z (US) 2008 Nissan 350Z -- NHTSA.jpg
Second facelift Nissan 350Z (US)

Released in July 2002 in Japan at reorganized Nissan Japanese dealerships called Nissan Blue Stage , and August 20, 2002 in the U.S., the 350Z coupé was available in 5 trim packages: '350Z' (Base), 'Enthusiast', 'Performance', 'Touring', and 'Track' editions. In Europe, only the 'Track' trim was available, although it was badged and marketed as '350Z'. The Base model did not include a VLSD or Traction Control and was only available with cloth seats. It did not include cruise control, nor power or heated seats. The Enthusiast model came with traction control, a VLSD, and cruise control. The Performance model came with larger 18-inch wheels, front air dam, rear spoiler, optional Brembo brakes, and VDC instead of Traction Control. Touring was made more of the luxury model. It had power, leather, heated seats, VDC, a VLSD, xenon headlamps, optional Brembo brakes, 18-inch wheels, and optional GPS Navigation. The Track model included Brembo brakes, front air dam, rear spoiler, traction control, cloth seats, 18-inch wheels, VLSD, and optional GPS Navigation.

In 2004 Nissan introduced the 350Z Roadster with an electrically retractable soft-top roof. In the U.S. market the car was available in two trim packages (Enthusiast and Touring), while in Europe, the same versions as the coupé were offered. Nissan added the Grand Touring (GT) trim to the Roadster trim packages for 2005.[ citation needed ]

In 2005 Nissan launched the 35th Anniversary edition, with a revised exterior and interior (see Special Editions below). Early 2005 model-year 35th anniversary edition models were equipped with the original VQ35DE engine with 287HP/274TQ and an automatic transmission. In January 2005, Nissan introduced the 35th Anniversary 6-speed manual models and Track models (mid-year introduction), which included the updated VQ35DE 300HP/260TQ 'Rev-up' engine and new updated CD009 manual transmission as well as minor changes to suspension tuning and parts. [8]

For the 2006 model year, the 350Z received changes for its mid-cycle facelift. The VQ35DE 300HP/260TQ 'Rev-up' engine that was introduced mid-year 2005 on the Track and 35th Anniversary Edition with 6-speed manual transmission models was offered for every trim level that had a manual transmission option. The VQ35DE rated at 287 bhp (291 PS; 214 kW) and 274 lb⋅ft (371 N⋅m) of torque continued to be offered with only the 5-speed automatic transmission. Additions included bi-xenon projectors, a revised front fascia, new LED rear lights, changes to the interior trim and speed sensitive steering. Trim levels above the basic enthusiast package received a brake system upgrade including a larger brake booster, front dual piston calipers and larger diameter brake disks. Touring and Grand Touring models had radio-steering controls standard, MP3 CD compatibility, and Satellite Radio became an available option.

For the 2007 model year, the 350Z was again moderately revised. The VQ35DE V6 was replaced with a new VQ35HR V6. It produced 306 bhp (310 PS; 228 kW) at 6800 rpm with 268 lb⋅ft (363 N⋅m) of torque at 4800 rpm [9] using the revised SAE certified power benchmark. The VQ35HR had a raised redline to 7500 rpm and more torque across the rpm range. The hood was redesigned with a bulge reminiscent of the original 240Z to accommodate the raised deck height of the new VQ35HR. In the U.S., trim levels were narrowed down to 350Z (base), Enthusiast, Touring, Grand Touring and NISMO, while in Europe the same trim levels remained. Bluetooth was added for the 2007 model year.

Special editions

Fairlady Z Type E (2004)

A total of 5 units, called the Type E, were produced in Japan for homologation requirements to compete in the Super GT series. It has a longer nose and rear overhang, as well as several add-ons for aerodynamic purposes. The Type-E engine is rated at 213.99 kW (287 hp; 291 PS) at 6,200 rpm and 363 N⋅m (268 lb⋅ft) of torque at 4,800 rpm. [10]

350Z 35th Anniversary Edition (2005)

Nissan 350Z 35th Anniversary Edition 35th Anniversary Edition in Chicago.jpg
Nissan 350Z 35th Anniversary Edition

To commemorate the 35th anniversary of the debut of the Datsun 240Z, Nissan released a tuned version of the 350Z coupé. The 35th Anniversary Z was exhibited at the Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas on November 2, followed by the Miami Auto Show in early November. It went on sale in January 2005.

The 35th Anniversary Edition includes an updated VQ35DE 300 hp (224.99 kW) V6 engine for the six-speed manual transmission model. Other equipment (standard on six-speed manual-equipped versions) includes 18-inch (460 mm) cast aluminum-alloy wheels, front spoilers, Brembo brakes and special Z badging. The car was available in a special "Ultra Yellow", "Silverstone grey","Super Black" and "Pearl Blue" colors. The interior was also available with a black set configuration. Also included was a Bose 6-speaker premium sound system. [11] A version of the 35th Anniversary Edition with a Gran Turismo 4 video game tie-in was also made. [12]

350Z GT-S concept

During the 2006 Goodwood Festival of Speed, Nissan Technical Centre Europe (NTCE) unveiled the 350Z GT-S Concept. [13] The GT-S had a unique radial flow supercharger that could be turned on or off via a switch on the dashboard, raising the VQ35DE engine output to 382.6 bhp (285.3 kW; 387.9 PS) and 424.8 N⋅m (313.3 lb⋅ft) without modifications to the engine components. The car also had new body kit for more cooling and downforce and wider 245 and 265/40/18 tires. The car was tested by automotive journalists, but none were marketed. [14]

2008 Tokyo Auto Salon concepts (2008)

The Nissan Fairlady Z Type F, Xanavi Nismo Z (Super GT 2007 GT500 Class), Endless Advan Z (series winner of Japan's Super Taikyu 2007 endurance series) and Fairlady Z Version Nismo Type 380RS were all unveiled at the 2008 Tokyo Auto Salon. [15]

Fairlady Z Type F (2008)

The Fairlady Z Type F is a version of the Nissan Fairlady Z coupe and roadster for the Japanese market with:

The vehicles went on sale on January 10, 2008. [16]

Nismo editions

Nissan's performance tuning division, Nismo, began producing modified versions of the 350Z shortly after its introduction.[ citation needed ]

Nismo R-Tune (2004)

The R-Tune was a kit sold directly to customers with modifications including new headers, cams, pulleys. The R-Tune voids the Nissan factory warranty,[ citation needed ] but gains significant horsepower, intended for track racers.

Nismo S-Tune GT (2005)

Nismo S-Tune GT Z33 S-tune GT NF2006 01.JPG
Nismo S-Tune GT

The S-Tune GT was released by Nismo to celebrate its success in the Super GT series. The S-Tune GT had revised long nose bodywork as in the Type-E, a modified version of the VQ35DE engine called the S1 which featured more power (316 PS / 232 kW / 311 hp) and a higher redline (7,200 rpm), as well as a sportier Nismo suspension.

20 were produced each month in Japan. Although Nissan did not officially sell S-Tune in UK, Nissan Motor (GB) Ltd. imported 1 S-Tune GT to UK. [17]

Nismo 350Z (2007–2008)

Nismo 350Z Nissan Fairlady Z Version Nismo 01.JPG
Nismo 350Z
Nismo Type 380RS Nissan FAIRLADY Z Version NISMO Type 380RS (Z33) front.jpg
Nismo Type 380RS
Nismo Type 380RS-Competition Z33 NISMO 380RS-C 001.JPG
Nismo Type 380RS-Competition
Nismo Fairlady Z police car used by Tochigi Prefecture police force FairladyZnismopc.jpg
Nismo Fairlady Z police car used by Tochigi Prefecture police force

The Nismo edition of the Nissan 350Z Coupé debuted at the New York International Auto Show on April 4, 2007. This version had the same engine as the regular 350Z (VQ35HR), but was only available with a 6-speed manual transmission and a viscous-type limited-slip differential (VLSD), Traction Control System (TCS) and a Nismo aerodynamics package based on the Super GT championship car, which included an aggressive front fascia with chin spoiler, side skirts, an extended rear fascia with an underbody diffuser and a rear wing. The vehicle also featured Nismo-tuned independent multi-link suspension developed by Yamaha, Brembo brakes with four-piston front and two-piston rear calipers (with 12.8-inch (330 mm) front and 12.7-inch (320 mm) rear rotors) and Nismo-branded gunmetal grey RAYS forged alloy wheels and a Nismo-branded tuned exhaust. Yamaha also included front and rear dampeners to help with stability of the chassis.

The conversion process for the Nismo 350Z began with a limited number of chassis being pulled from the assembly line to be sent to Nissan-tuner Autech to have structural seams hand-welded for greater body rigidity. This process made the Nismo 350Z a more capable track car than the other trim levels available at the time.

The Nismo 350Z went on sale in the USA in July 2007 at Nissan dealers. [18] [19] 1607 were produced for the 2007 and 2008 model years, and it was assumed that if there was a greater demand, more would be produced, limited to 10% of all 350Z sales. The Nismo model 350Z had a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $38,070 for the 2007 model year.

Nismo Type 380RS (2007)

Released as the road version for Japanese market of the Type 380RS-Competition race car, the Type 380RS includes a detuned version of the 380RS-C race engine, rated at 257 kW (350 PS/348 hp) at 7,200 rpm and 397 N·m (40.5 kgf·m/293 lbf·ft) of torque at 4,800 rpm. Brembo disc brakes are fitted, front and rear dampers from Yamaha and forged RAYS alloy wheels.

Nismo Type 380RS is priced 5.397 million (5.14 million+tax) yen ($38,695 USD). [20] Only 300 units were produced from 2007 through 2008. [21]

Nismo Type 380RS-Competition

The Nismo Type 380RS-Competition is the race car on which Nismo Type 380RS is based. The 3,798 cc engine (VQ38HR) is rated at 294 kW (400 PS) at 7,500 rpm and 421 N m (43 kgf m) of torque at 5,200 rpm. This in turn is based on the GT 500 race car that Nissan enters into the Super GT championship.

According to Nissan, the race car cost 26.25 million yen. [22]

Police version

A Nismo version of the Fairlady Z was also used by the Tochigi Prefecture police force. [23] [24]

Motorsport

Xanavi Nissan 350Z GT at the 2006 British International Motor Show Xanavi Nissan 350Z.jpg
Xanavi Nissan 350Z GT at the 2006 British International Motor Show
Xanavi 350Z, rear Xanavi Nissan 350Z rear.jpg
Xanavi 350Z, rear

Grand Am

Since its introduction in 2002, it did not take long for drivers and teams to enter a 350Z for competition when B.J. Zacharias and Michiel Schuitemaker of Schuitemaker Motorsports helped the car to make its début in the Grand-Am Cup Series at the start of the 2003 season. They have taken a few podium finishes with Unitech Racing who is also the other team to field a Z33, but effort was proved to be successful under the name of Geddings Racing scoring wins along with the other current Grand-Am entrant East Competition Promotorsport. The Grand-Am Cup car has also been used in the new FIA GT4 European Cup. Schuitemaker Motorsports with drivers Michiel Schuitemaker and BJ Zacharias won 3rd place in the '03 Grand-Am Cup season. The following year, they improved and finished in 2nd place. After winning 3rd overall in the '03 season, Nissan had Wright Tuning build a new 350Z race car for the '04 season. This car differed from the '03 car in that it was completely stripped and seam welded. The cage was lighter and stiffer by using different diameter tubing where possible. The car used a Menard's built engine with a Pectel engine management system. Overall racing weight was 2,450 lb (1,110 kg) which was the minimum allowable weight for its class. The '04 chassis proved to be the most successful chassis to run in Grand-Am to date. The '03 chassis was sold to a French team with Edouardo Atkatlan as the driver. It still competes in the European "Fun Races" today, winning 2nd place in the inaugural '07 race in Madrid, Spain.

JGTC/Super GT

The 350Z replaced the Skyline GT-R as the car for Nissan's factory and customer teams in the Super GT's GT 500 class. The cars used are heavily modified and had a longer nose and tail (requiring the production of the Type-E homologation special), carbon fiber bodywork, and a tube chassis. In 2004, Nismo won the GT500 championship. Until the 2007 season, the car was powered by a VQ30DETT V6, then a new 4.5L V8 powerplant was developed. The 350Z, with slightly more pedestrian modifications also competed in the GT300 class, having started there even before the Skyline GT-Rs were replaced, by teams such as Endless Sports and Mola. In 2003 Hasemi Sports won the GT300 championship with the 350Z. In the 2008 season, the 350Zs were all replaced by Nissan GT-Rs in the GT500 class, but they continued to be used in the GT300 class as the GT-Rs exceed the class's horsepower limits. Two 350Zs competed in the series and MOLA won both the Drivers' and Teams' championships in the GT300 class.

Super Taikyu

The Z33 also appears in Japan's Super Taikyu series, entered by C-West Labs. [25]

British GT Championship

The British GT Championship also fielded a privateer 350Z which competed in the series until 2006.[ citation needed ]

SCCA

An SCCA GT-2 prepped Nissan 350Z. GT2 2010SCCARunoffsWinner46JimCoughary.jpg
An SCCA GT-2 prepped Nissan 350Z.

The 350Z is a popular choice for amateurs and professionals competing in SCCA events. T.C Kline achieved third place in the 2003 Touring 2 category in one of three Z33s that qualified to the SCCA T-2 runoffs that year. In the SCCA GT2 class, Jim Goughary took the title in the car's debut season.

The car has also seen success in SCCA solo events. In 2006, Carter Thompson's 350Z lost the SCCA National Championship by 0.1 second over two days of competition. The 350Z has achieved a high level of success at the National Solo Championships since 2006. Although production of the 350Z was discontinued in 2009, the car continues to compete in local and national SCCA events. As recently as 2015, 350Z solo drivers Jeff Stuart and Bryan Heitkotter were rated as the top two SCCA drivers competing in national autocross.

NASA

In 2012, NASA (National Auto Sport Association), created a class of racing specifically for the 350Z. The "Spec Z" class includes all trim levels of the popular 2003-2008 Nissan 350Z in a single class focused on close competition, parity and cost containment that will showcase driving ability and car setup skills. The road racing series is backed by Nissan Motorsports and BFG Tires. The 2012 class rules were in their infant stage, but solidified by mid-2012.

Drifting

Nissan 350Z drift car competing in Formula Drift in 2012 Formula DRIFT on Track 2012.jpg
Nissan 350Z drift car competing in Formula Drift in 2012

The 350Z is a popular platform for import events and drifting, where in the latter, drivers including Ryuji Miki, Youichi Imamura, Tyler McQuarrie and Tanner Foust have used them with success in the D1 Grand Prix and Formula D series. [26] During the 2006 D1 Grand Prix exhibition event at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Tanner Foust, driving a 350Z, became the first competitor to achieve a perfect score of 100. [27] Two Z33s competed in the non-Japanese domestic D1 Grand Prix spin-off series, D1 Great Britain. In the 2007 season, both SVA Imports and Sumo Power competed using 350Zs in the European Drift Championship. In Formula D, Foust was awarded the runner-up spot in Round 1. [28] In Round 2, Chris Forsberg scored a maiden victory [28] in his 350Z Roadster equipped with a VK56DE from a Nissan Titan. [29] [ failed verification ] Forsberg's win for the 350Z was followed-up by Youichi Imamura's win during the Las Vegas round of the US D1 Grand Prix series in his RB26DETT-engined car. Foust would eventually take his 350Z to the Formula D title. [30]

Open road racing

Option magazine founder Daijiro Inada used an extensively modified 350Z, dubbed Option Stream Z, to compete in the Silver State Classic Challenge. [31] The car was equipped with a GReddy/Trust T88 turbo-charger and was stroked to 3.8 L to produce over 900 bhp (671 kW; 912 PS). The Option Stream Z appeared in the games Gran Turismo 4 , Gran Turismo 5 , and Gran Turismo (PSP).[ citation needed ]

Speed trials

In 2004, the tuner Dandy and magazine Option entered a Z33 known as the "Option Dandy 380Z" with a donor engine from a salvaged Stream Z with a deleted turbo, producing 370 bhp (276 kW; 375 PS), to compete in the F/GT class for naturally aspirated grand touring sport cars at the Bonneville Speed Week. The car reached a speed of 151 mph (243 km/h), measured over a fixed distance. [32]

Advertising and promotions

To promote the 350Z, Nissan released a short film, "The Run", with a 2003 model being driven in a high-speed run through city streets of up to 200 km/h (124 mph). This took place through the narrow cobblestone streets of Prague in the Czech Republic, and lasted six and a half minutes. [33] [34]

The 350Z has been extremely popular with diecast manufacturers, with companies such as Hot Wheels releasing various colors and styles of the car over the years. [35]

The 350Z benefitted in popularity by making an appearance in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift , where it was fitted with a Veilside bodykit, amongst other modifications, and was driven by the fictional character "Drift King" Takashi. [36]

Specifications

2003–0420052006200720082009
Available Trims350Z (base), Enthusiast, Performance, Touring, Track350Z (base), Enthusiast, Performance, Touring, Track, Anniversary350Z (base), Enthusiast, Touring, Grand Touring, TrackCoupé: Base, Enthusiast, Touring, Grand Touring, Nismo
Roadster: Enthusiast, Touring, Grand Touring		Roadster: Enthusiast, Touring, Grand Touring
Powertrain
Engine VQ35DE 3.5 L (210 cu in) V6
287 hp (214 kW; 291 PS) at 6,200 rpm
274 lb⋅ft (371 N⋅m) at 4,800 rpm		 VQ35DE 3.5 L (210 cu in) V6
287 hp (214 kW; 291 PS) at 6,200 rpm
274 lb⋅ft (371 N⋅m) at 4,800 rpm
VQ35DE 3.5 L (210 cu in) V6
300 hp (224 kW; 304 PS) at 6,400 rpm
260 lb⋅ft (353 N⋅m) at 4,800 rpm		 VQ35DE 3.5 L (210 cu in) V6
300 hp (224 kW; 304 PS) at 6,400 rpm
260 lb⋅ft (353 N⋅m) at 4,800 rpm		 VQ35HR 3.5 L (210 cu in) V6
306 hp (228 kW; 310 PS) at 6,800 rpm
268 lb⋅ft (363 N⋅m) at 4,800 rpm
Transmission6-speed manual, 5-speed automatic
Dimensions
Curb WeightCoupé:
3,188 lb (1,446 kg) (Base)
3,197 lb (1,450 kg) (Enth)
3,217 lb (1,459 kg) (Perf)
3,247 lb (1,473 kg) (Tour)
3,225 lb (1,463 kg) (Track)
Roadster:
3,428 lb (1,555 kg) (Enth)
3,462 lb (1,570 kg) (Tour)		Coupé:
3,339 lb (1,515 kg) (Base)
3,346 lb (1,518 kg) (Enth)
3,400 lb (1,542 kg) (Tour)
3,404 lb (1,544 kg) (Grand)
3,353 lb (1,521 kg) (Nismo)
Roadster:
3,580 lb (1,624 kg) (Enth)
3,600 lb (1,633 kg) (Tour)
3,602 lb (1,634 kg) (Grand)		Roadster:
3,580 lb (1,624 kg) (Enth)
3,600 lb (1,633 kg) (Tour)
3,602 lb (1,634 kg) (Grand)
Wheelbase104.3 in (2,650 mm)
Length169.8 in (4,310 mm)
Width71.5 in (1,820 mm)
Height52.1 in (1,320 mm)

Sales by calendar year

YearU.S. Sales [37] Europe [38]
200213,2533
200336,7282187
200430,6906959
200527,2785598
200624,6353955
200718,9572493
200810,3371411
20090424

Reception

The 350Z has been given extensive coverage in the automotive press, and has obtained generally positive reviews. Eddie Alterman, senior editor of Automobile magazine, said of the 350Z "An outstanding performance value. They got all the important stuff right." [39] While David Swigg of Motor Trend said "With a competent driver at the wheel and the traction control switched off, many Boxster drivers would be hard-pressed to post better lap times than with this Z." [40] Top Gear magazine later awarded the Nissan Designers with the 2004 Top Gear Magazine Car of the year award. [41]

Automotive journalists tend to praise the 350Z's value, performance, handling, and braking. Criticisms tend to be directed towards the grade of interior plastics, greater curb weight than its competitors, cabin ergonomics and engine refinement. Other reviews have criticised reflections off the back strut in the rear window. [42] [43]

The 350Z has been recognized including the following:

In other media

Safety

The 350Z came with front air bags in standard and supplemental side air bags and curtain air bags as an option. With 143 deaths per million registrations, the two-door 350Z has been one of the least safe 2005–2008 model cars in the United States. [53]

NHTSA crash test ratings (2009 Roadster): [54]

See also

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<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan VK engine</span> Reciprocating internal combustion engine

The VK engine is a V8 piston engine from Nissan. It is an aluminum DOHC 4-valve design.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan VQ engine</span> Reciprocating internal combustion engine

The VQ is a family of V6 automobile petrol engines developed by Nissan and produced in displacements varying from 2.0 L to 4.0 L. Designed to replace the VG series, the all-aluminium 4-valve per cylinder DOHC design debuted with Nissan's EGI/ECCS sequential multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) system. Changes from the VG engine include switching to a timing chain from a timing belt, and relocating the water pump from the outside of the engine to inside the timing cover where the pump is driven by the timing chain. Later versions featured various improvements, such as variable valve timing, and NEO-Di designated VQ engines replace MPFI with direct fuel injection.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan Fairlady Z (S30)</span> Japanese sports car produced 1969 to 1978

The Nissan S30, sold in Japan as the Nissan Fairlady Z, but for export badged as the Datsun 240Z, and later as the Datsun 260Z and 280Z, are 2-seat sports cars and 2+2 GT cars produced by Nissan, from 1969 until 1978. The S30 was conceived of by Yutaka Katayama, the President of Nissan Motor Corporation U.S.A., and designed by a team led by Yoshihiko Matsuo, the head of Nissan's Sports Car Styling Studio. It is the first car in Nissan's Z series of sports cars.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Datsun Sports</span> Motor vehicle

The Datsun Sports, was a series of roadsters produced by Nissan in the 1960s. The series was a predecessor to the Z-car in the Fairlady line, and offered a competitor to the European MG, Triumph, Fiat and Alfa Romeo sports cars. Beginning with the 1959 S211, the line was built in two generations: the first generation was largely handbuilt in small numbers, while the second generation was series produced. The second generation first appeared in 1961 and continued through 1970 with the SP311 and SR311 lines.

Autech is a division of Nissan Motorsports & Customizing focused on tuning and converting Nissan cars. Autech was a subsidiary company of Nissan from its establishment in 1986 to 2022, when it was merged with Nismo.

Christopher Forsberg, is an American Formula D driver from Doylestown, Pennsylvania. He competes in the Formula Drift series in his Nissan Z (Z34) for Forsberg Racing, where he is the owner and shop manager. NOS Energy Drink is a primary sponsor and has been a partner since 2004.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan S20 engine</span> Reciprocating internal combustion engine

The Nissan S20 engine 2.0 L (1,989 cc) was a straight-6 four-valve DOHC internal combustion engine produced by Nissan from 1969 to 1973, originally designed by engineers of the former Prince. It was the first mass-produced Japanese engine with more than two valves per cylinder.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Infiniti G Line</span> Motor vehicle

The Infiniti G Line is a series of compact executive cars manufactured and marketed by Infiniti, a luxury division of Nissan, for the 1991–1996 and 1999–2016 model years — across four generations.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan GT-R</span> Sports car manufactured by Japanese automobile manufacturer Nissan

The Nissan GT-R is a car built by Japanese marque Nissan since 2007. It has a 2+2 seating layout and is considered both a sports car and a grand tourer. The engine is front-mid mounted and drives all four wheels. It succeeds the Nissan Skyline GT-R, a high-performance variant of the Nissan Skyline. Although this model was the sixth-generation to bear the GT-R name, it is no longer part of the Skyline line-up. The car is built on the PM platform, derived from the FM platform used in the Skyline and Nissan Z models. Production is conducted in a shared production line at Nissan's Tochigi plant in Japan.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan 370Z</span> Car model

The Nissan 370Z is a 2-door, 2-seater sports car manufactured by Nissan Motor Company. It was announced on October 29, 2006, and was first shown at an event in Los Angeles ahead of the 2008 Greater LA Auto Show, before being officially unveiled at the show itself. The 370Z is the sixth generation of the Nissan Z-car line, succeeding the 350Z. The 2020 model year was the final model year for the 370Z. The line was continued by the Nissan Z (RZ34) on a modified version of the same platform.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan Silvia</span> Sports car manufactured by Nissan

The Nissan Silvia is the series of small sports cars produced by Nissan. Versions of the Silvia have been marketed as the 200SX or 240SX for export, with some export versions being sold under the Datsun brand.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan Z (RZ34)</span> Seventh-generation of the Nissan Z sports car

The Nissan Z, known in Japan as the Nissan Fairlady Z, is the seventh generation of the Z-car line of sports cars manufactured by Nissan. The model succeeded the 370Z, though is built on a modified and revised version of the previous generation's platform. The model also drops the numerical nomenclature of the previous generations.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nissan GT-R variants</span> Japanese sports car variants

The Nissan GT-R model lineup comprises various modified editions, starting with the Black Edition featuring exterior and interior performance enhancements. The Track Edition, introduced in 2013, focused on weight reduction and improved handling, with a 2019 update adopting the GT-R Nismo's drivetrain. The Nismo variant, launched in 2014, set a Nürburgring lap record, featuring increased power, aerodynamic improvements, and a weight reduction of 25 kg (55 lb) in the 2019 update. Special editions, including the GT-R T-spec, featured exclusive qualities, while one-off editions had adaptability for different events, and the GT-R/C, was for remote control.

References

Notes

  1. 1 2 3 Long, Brian (2004). Nissan 300ZX and 350Z: The Z-car story. Veloce. ISBN   978-1-904788-04-1.
  2. ↑ Sessions, Ron (2002). Lust, Then Love: The Story of the New Z. Publications International. ISBN   978-0-7853-7568-5.
  3. ↑ "Concept: The Nissan Z".
  4. ↑ "Search for a car". cars.com.
  5. ↑ "Nissan Z Concept Goes 'Back to Basics".
  6. ↑ Csere, Csaba. "Tested: 2003 Nissan 350Z Returns to Its Roots". Car And Driver.
  7. ↑ Jackson, Kathy (2008-05-19). "Diane Allen". Automotive News. London. Archived from the original on 2022-05-22. Retrieved 2021-05-22.
  8. ↑ "Upgrade to cd009 transmission Forums". MY350Z.COM Forums. Retrieved 2015-09-30.
  9. ↑ "2007 Nissan 350Z". Autoblog.com.
  10. ↑ "Fairlady 350Z Type E specifications" (in Japanese). Nissan. 2004-02-07. Archived from the original on 2004-02-07. Retrieved 2016-10-12.
  11. ↑ Winfiled, Barry (April 2005), "Nissan 350Z 35th Anniversary Edition; Nissan turns out the best Z-car in 35 years", Car and Driver
  12. ↑ Neobyte. "Nissan 350Z Gran Turismo 4 Edition not only in the game but also on roads!". Tuningmag.net. Retrieved 2009-05-05.
  13. ↑ "Nissan confirms production of 350Z GT-S". Archived from the original on 2006-11-02.
  14. ↑ "Battle of the Sixes". evo.co.uk. Retrieved 8 December 2010.
  15. ↑ GT-R GT500 Race Car to Debut at Tokyo Auto Salon – Nissan to showcase 16 exciting models at Tokyo Auto Salon and Osaka AutoMesse - Archived 2014-02-02 at the Wayback Machine
  16. ↑ 「フェアレディZ」にプレミアムカラーを追加 --あわせて特別仕様車「フェアレディZ Type F」を発売-- Archived 2011-12-22 at the Wayback Machine
  17. ↑ "2005 Nissan Nismo 350Z S-tune GT". Seriouswheels.com. 2005. Retrieved 2011-08-01.
  18. ↑ Nunez, Alex (2007-04-05). "New York Auto Show: Nismo 350Z shines at Nissan booth". Autoblog.com. Retrieved 2011-08-01.
  19. ↑ Job, Ann (2005-04-05). "Nismo 350Z debuts". Autoshow.autos.msn.com. Archived from the original on 2011-08-12. Retrieved 2011-08-01.
  20. ↑ "Nismo Type 380RS homepage" (in Japanese). nismo.co.jp. 2008. Retrieved 2011-08-01.
  21. ↑ "Nismo Type 380RS sales website". nismo.co.jp. 2008-10-31.
  22. ↑ "Nismo Type 380RS-Competition specifications" (in Japanese). nismo.co.jp. Retrieved 2011-08-01.
  23. ↑ PatrolCarGraph パトカーグラフPart1・栃木県警高速隊フェアレディZバージョンNismo (Z33) Archived 2008-04-22 at the Wayback Machine
  24. ↑ "Z33パトカー by 栃木県警高速隊を独占取材！". Blogs.yahoo.co.jp. Retrieved 2014-02-06.
  25. ↑ "C-West USA". www.c-westusa.com. Retrieved 2018-05-27.
  26. ↑ Terrell, Joe (12 June 2019). "Ultimate Nissan 350z Guide". Drifted. Retrieved June 12, 2019.
  27. ↑ "Tanner Foust : Breaking Drift News". www.wreckedmagazine.com. Retrieved 2018-05-27.
  28. 1 2 Formula Drift - Professional Drifting Championship Archived April 10, 2007, at the Wayback Machine
  29. ↑ "Chris Forsberg Racing » The Cars". Chrisforsberg.com. Archived from the original on 2009-01-14.
  30. ↑ Formula Drift - Professional Drifting Championship Archived May 3, 2007, at the Wayback Machine
  31. ↑ Roger Hewson (2004-10-25). "Vengeance of the Z". Overboost.com. Archived from the original on November 13, 2005. Retrieved 2006-11-23.
  32. ↑ "2005年東京オートサロンはZ33がいっぱい!". Freeplanets.jp. 2005-02-06. Retrieved 2011-08-01.
  33. ↑ "The Run" (PDF). nissan.com.au. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2007-09-05. Retrieved 2007-08-15.
  34. ↑ "Nissan Shifts Into Entertainment". Business Services Industry. 2002-12-03. Retrieved 2008-06-01.
  35. ↑ "Just Unveiled: Hot Wheels Nissan 350Z in yellow for 2014…". the Lamley Group. 2014-03-07. Retrieved 2018-02-02.
  36. ↑ "2003 Nissan 350Z Tokyo Drift Review @ Top Speed". Top Speed. Retrieved 2018-02-02.
  37. ↑ "2009 350Z Roadster".
  38. ↑ "Nissan 350Z European sales figures". 30 January 2014.
  39. ↑ "2003 Nissan 350Z Four Season Test". Automobile Magazine. Retrieved 2007-04-17.
  40. ↑ "350Z 1 Year Review". motortrend.com. Retrieved 2007-04-17.
  41. 1 2 "Top Gear Car of the Year 2004". CarPages.co.uk. Retrieved 2006-12-15.
  42. ↑ "Channel 4 Road Test: Nissan 350Z (2003-)". Archived from the original on 2007-06-01. Retrieved 2007-08-15.
  43. ↑ "350Z Anniversary first drive". cars.uk.msn.com. Archived from the original on 2011-07-23. Retrieved 2007-08-15.
  44. ↑ "TopSpeed Japanese Performance Car of the Year 2007". topspeed.com. 8 November 2006. Retrieved 2007-04-07.
  45. ↑ "Car and Driver 10 Best Cars 2003". carandriver.com. Archived from the original on August 14, 2006. Retrieved 2007-04-07.
  46. ↑ "Most Significant Vehicle of the Year 2003". edmunds.com. Archived from the original on October 28, 2006. Retrieved 2007-04-07.
  47. ↑ "Editors' Most Wanted 2003". edmunds.com. Archived from the original on October 28, 2006. Retrieved 2007-04-07.
  48. ↑ "Most Sex Appeal Award 2003". Road and Travel Magazine. Retrieved 2007-04-07.
  49. ↑ "Canadian Car of the Year 2003". AJAC. Archived from the original on 2007-02-02. Retrieved 2007-04-07.
  50. ↑ "Best New Design 2003". AJAC. Archived from the original on 2007-02-02. Retrieved 2007-04-07.
  51. ↑ "Driver's Choice Award 2003". MotorWeek Television. Archived from the original on April 26, 2004. Retrieved 2007-04-07.
  52. ↑ "12 Best Cars Under 30K: Nissan 350Z". Road & Track. Archived from the original on 2010-06-01. Retrieved 2007-04-07.
  53. ↑ "Driver death rates". iihs.org. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Archived from the original on 2015-11-21. Retrieved 2015-11-05.
  54. ↑ "2009 NISSAN 350Z ROADSTER C RWD". NHTSA. Retrieved 2017-03-09.
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