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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  dont buy a nissan - 2003 Nissan 350Z
  By ron - January 22 - 11:26 pm

  Nothing but problems with the z. Front end problems that nissan didnt repair because they couldnt get the tires to fix the problem.( P.S. dealership sells tires) Air conditioning problems that they temporary fix by recharging the system not stopping the leak. ( they get $90 from me to recharge the system ..nothing if they fix it) Squeaks and flex noises that will drive you insane. And now a fuel hose recall that will need the whole rear end to come off for a fix! Would you take it up to 100 after nissans mechanics got done with it?

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  Great ride & high fun quotient - 2005 Nissan 350Z
  By sdkrause - January 20 - 10:03 am

  Fun to drive and excellent build quality. The handling and the power are superb. If you want a sportscar that doesnt break the bank and still delivers the sports car experience, this is it. Even the trunk is well done. You can actually put golf clubs in it. The rag top is easy to use and provides a great open air experience. Could use a better arm rest and a glove box.

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  Can wait to Drive - 2005 Nissan 350Z
  By nissan - January 20 - 10:00 am

  With this little jewel you will love to leave and go. It handles and proforms as well as the looks you will receive.

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  Dream Z - 2004 Nissan 350Z
  By Paul Monterosso - January 20 - 10:00 am

  I have had so much fun with this car - since I bought it 25 days ago, Ive put on two thousand miles.

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  Best Z Ive owned yet - 2004 Nissan 350Z
  By AJ - January 6 - 11:43 pm

  This is my sixth Z. I love this one the most. The smooth power/torque is really nice. I love the support of the aftermarket on this car. I also own a modified Trans Am and even though the Z isnt as powerful, its more fun to drive, use around town, and gets a lot more looks. This is a tossable car with good power. It has good room for a two seater. I actually love the interior and all the features. Thanks Nissan for bringing the Z back !!! Reliability has been A++++ I believe Ill get 200K out of this Z as well.;-)

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  Z Love - 2003 Nissan 350Z
  By Z Love - January 6 - 10:00 am

  the editors review basis its numbers on irrelevant factors. anyone who would consider "cupholders" relevant shouldnt be driving a high-performance sports car. dont only look at the editors final rating to consider the Z -- it deserves much higher than a 7.96.

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  350 Z IS OUT OF CONTROLL - 2003 Nissan 350Z
  By RAYTACOMA - December 30 - 10:00 am

  I HAVE OWNED SEVERAL BMWS INCLUDING A 2001 M3, AND OVERALL MY 350Z IS THE MOST EXCITING, EYE CATCHING CAR I HAVE EVER DRIVEN. I HIGHLY RECOMEND IF YOU ARE IN THE MARKET FOR A SPORTSCAR.

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  MY NEW 350Z - 2004 Nissan 350Z
  By MVERNICE - December 30 - 10:00 am

  A LOT OF FUN. GREAT BUY FOR THE MONEY

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  Z Roadster is one fine ride! - 2004 Nissan 350Z
  By Scott Mann - December 30 - 10:00 am

  This car is everything and more than what I expected. I have a long history with Nissan, but this is my first Z car and convertible. The power, ride, handling, and overall experience of this car is the best Ive had of any vehicle Ive ever owned (Ive had Lexus, Toyota, Ford, Buick, Acura, Honda, Pontiac, Mazda, etc.). Ride is superb, body is rigid, and top-down motoring is a truly enjoyable experience due to excellent wind management, even on the interstate! If you even think you might want this car...go drive one. Youll leave the dealership with it. I did...traded my 02 Maxima SE 6 speed for it.

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  Love my Z - 2006 Nissan 350Z
  By ceavila - December 28 - 10:00 am

  I enjoy driving my car everyday through South Florida. Since I got my car I cannot stop thinking where to go next. I recommend this car to anyone who is single since is only a 2 seat car.