All About the Nissan 350z & 370z

Heritage

Early models of the Nissan Z were built and manufactured in the Nissan Shatai plant which lasted until 2000. All models produced today are built in the Tochigi and Oppama plants. The first Z model car was sold back in 1969 in October. The earliest Nissan Z was the 240Z (also known as the S30). When the Z first hit the market, enthusiasts praised the Z for it’s handsome exterior, performance, and reliability combined. Fast forward 5 years, the 260Z was released in 1974 while the 280Z was sold in North America. From 1969 when the first generation Z released to today, there have been six generations of Z cars:

• 1st Generation 240Z (S30):1969 – 1975
• 2nd Generation 280ZX (S130):1975 – 1983
• 3rd Generation 300ZX (Z31, 1st model):1984 – 1989
• 4th Generation 300ZX (Z32, 2nd model):1990 – 1996
• 5th Generation 350Z (Z33):2002 – 2008
• 6th Generation 370Z (Z34):2008 – Current

Features & Uses

Between their ability to handle extremely well under heavy load, power production, impressive appearance, and functionality the Z really is something special! Not to forget that the Z models are instantly recognizable from teens to adults and are appreciated by all in between! You can pick up a Z for ~ $43,000 while a new Skyline will run you ~ $100,000. That extra $57,000 could be spent on the upgrades the Z is missing and in comparison of performance to money, you will end up on top with the Z. The Z truly is a jack of all trades, it is an excellent selection for road courses, drifting, a street car, and even Auto-X racing.

Current Latest Model: 370Z

The latest Z, the 370Z which was offered for the first time in 2009, starts at $29,990, has a curb weight of ~ 3,300-3,600 lbs., ~ 330-350 horsepower, 276 lb. torque, and 19-26 miles per gallon. A convertible version is also available for ~ $41,800. The 370Z is a two seater, rear wheel drive, V6 engine, and comes standard with a manual transmission. You can also choose a 7 speed automatic for an up charge. Noticeable improvements over the 350Z consist of much better top end power and more nimble and better response time during handling. The overall decrease in size the 370Z has over the 350Z allows for a nimble footprint resulting in better grip and input/output response on the road. The interior of the 370Z is much more modern and “classy” than the 350z. Not only are more features available for the 370Z but you can “see” the improvements upon first glance. In regards to performance data the 370Z does a 12.5 1/4 mile while the 350z comes in at 13.5 seconds. Furthermore it has 33 extra ponies and an extra 10 lbs. of torque.