Overview & Reviews

A proper sports car for the everyman. If we had just one sentence to describe the Nissan 350Z, that'd be it. While there have always been plenty of unobtainable sports cars out there to drool over, the 350Z's relatively compact dimensions, rear-wheel drive, two seats, muscular engine and sharp handling came at a price that real people could actually afford.

The Nissan 350Z represented the fifth generation of "Z" sports cars from this Japanese manufacturer. At its debut in 2003, the 350Z represented a key component of Nissan's rebirth in the North American market. For much of the late '90s and early new millennium, Nissan's lineup was full of lackluster cars. The Z brought back the company's spirit of fun and performance that had been missing ever since the discontinuation of the previous 300ZX.

The 350Z coupe was replaced by the 370Z coupe for 2009, while the 350Z roadster lived on before following suit the following year. In coupe or drop-top form, the 350Z was quite popular so finding a nice example on the used car market should be relatively easy. That said, keen shoppers will want to pay close attention to the car's changes and updates that were made through the years.

Most Recent Nissan 350Z

The 350Z sports car bowed in 2003 as an all-new model and was produced until 2008 (coupe) and 2009 (roadster). 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.

In these early years, the V6 produced 287 hp and 274 lb-ft of torque. Power was sent to the rear wheels through either a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic. The Track model had the manual only. Changes were minimal in the first few years, though Nissan did release a 350Z 35th-anniversary edition in '05. This manual-transmission model produced 300 hp (but less torque) and came in three exclusive colors.

For '06, Nissan included the Anniversary Edition's 300-hp V6 for all manual-equipped cars. There were a host of other changes as well, including mildly updated styling, speed-sensitive steering, larger brakes for non-Brembo-equipped models, a higher-quality interior, more standard features and a newly available navigation system. The Performance trim level was dropped. This was also the first year for the Grand Touring trim level, which was similar to the Touring but had the Track's Brembo brakes and wheels.

For '07, Nissan fully updated the V6 for all 350Zs and it made a potent 306 hp. The Track trim level was dropped, but in its place came the coupe-only Nismo 350Z model. The Nismo model dropped many luxuries in favor of performance-enhancing upgrades, such as a stiffened, seam-welded chassis, firmer springs and shock absorbers, special wheels and various aerodynamic upgrades. Inside, each Nismo 350Z had red and black cloth seats, a gray-faced tachometer and a number plaque indicating its build order in the production run. Nismo models were also produced for the coupe's last year in 2008; the following year brought the all-new 370Z coupe. For '09, the roadster carried the 350Z flag; the following year it was replaced by the all-new 370Z roadster.

In reviews, we found the Nissan 350Z to be an engaging sports car to drive hard. The V6 pulled strongly when revved past 3,000 rpm and generated one of the most distinctive engine and exhaust-note soundtracks available (something its successor lacks). The 350Z's ability to provide serious grip through corners made it a favorite of our enthusiast editors. At the limit, the car's handling could be a bit tricky, so steady hands were required.

When employed on a daily basis, the Nissan 350Z didn't make for such a compelling companion. Road and tire noise were considerable, and the car's stiff suspension transmitted plenty of shock to its occupants when driven on rough pavement. Inside, the Z's cabin was functional but decidedly stark. Some of the interior trim was of low quality, and the luggage capacity of the roadster was compromised, even for this class of car.

Considering the 350Z's gradual improvements in features and hardware over the years, consumers interested in a used Nissan 350Z should generally try to purchase the newest year possible. Notable options to look for would be side airbags (they were optional on the coupe and not always standard on the roadster) and stability control (which came on Touring coupes as well as Grand Touring and Track trim levels).

User Reviews:

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  Gets Attention - 2004 Nissan 350Z
  By Zuneety - April 22 - 11:26 am

  This Z has a body design that people really love to look at. The interior features are well thought out, the CD console and temp controls are easy to reach. The seats are the most comfortable I have ever sat in, and make driving a pleasure.The car just the best in comfort and drivability. I test drove the competitors and this Z won hands down.

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  Hot little car - 2006 Nissan 350Z
  By NEAL BARNHILL - April 14 - 2:40 am

  Very flashy and classy, test drove the jag and mercedes sports models and i think this handles much better.

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  Z Me GO - 2003 Nissan 350Z
  By Z ME GO - April 3 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is great. I looked at the G35 Coupe / Audi TT / Porsche. For the money the 350Z was the best buy hands down. Although you have to pay sticker for this car, it is a great buy. It screams GO GO GO. Step on the gas and you fly. This is by far the best sports car I have owned.

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  Former Mustang Owner - 2003 Nissan 350Z
  By Pete Smith - March 29 - 10:00 am

  The best thing about owning this car has nothing to do with its features. It is the admiration and respect people have shown towards me. I never thought a car could do all of that for me. I get compliments and thumbs up everywhere I go. My Mustang was an enjoyable ride, but I never got this much attention. I got mine in Silverstone w/ Orange leather seats. As far as mods, I will check out some 19" wheels and some minor engine tweaks.

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  Luv My Sweet 350Z! - 2004 Nissan 350Z
  By Rosita - March 29 - 10:00 am

  The experience I have had with my 350Z...is awesome! I love driving my Z...it handles the road really good. In comparison to my vette, I give thumbs up to the 350Z anyday.

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  I wouldnt own any other car - 2004 Nissan 350Z
  By Steve Talmage - March 29 - 10:00 am

  After pestering my local dealer for months for a Daytona Blue version of this car, he finally found one. Im glad he did. Its absolutely stunning in the sunlight. In addition, Ive become addicted to driving it (I hate to actually park it--Id rather keep driving it around!). The shifter, clutch, brakes, and steering are tight, precise, and give me absolute control. The car never hesitates to respond to my every whim.

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  I Love The 350Z - 2004 Nissan 350Z
  By Cyndie - March 29 - 10:00 am

  I just love my Nissan 350Z! Its a real fun car to drive. It handles great and performs great!

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  Great Car... I love mine! - 2004 Nissan 350Z
  By Joe Schmoe - March 29 - 10:00 am

  This car is great to drive. It handles very well, and has great pick up, not to mention the perfomrance specs put the Z in a league with cars like the Boxter, Boxter S, Carrera, Z3, Z4, and S2000. This car is not for the shy, because it is a real head turner. I havent gone a day yet without a second glance from other drivers.

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  Esters - 2004 Nissan 350Z
  By Ester - March 29 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive. Love the comfortable leather seats. Can do an all day drive and no fatigue in the back or legs. Handling in this car is superior. Will stop on a dime and give you nine cent change. Virtually no roll or pitch when manuevering around traffic.

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  the best - 2006 Nissan 350Z
  By Loran Redfern - March 24 - 6:46 am

  This is one of the best cars i have ever had the pleasure to own and drive