The 2009 Nissan 370Z: a true sports car by The Car Guide

AK370Z · 06-20-2009, 11:41 PM

For several years, the 350Z was the high-powered sports car at Nissan. This was the case up until last year when they released the GT-R, which became Nissan’s new sport and performance icon. Will the arrival of this model cause the 350Z to fade into the background? Definitely not. To ensure this doesn’t happen, Nissan has released a totally new Z model for 2009; a new sports car that is more affordable and, above all, much more sophisticated.

The Z is inspired by a long line of sports cars ranging from the 240Z (originally launched 30 years ago) to the more recent 300ZX. Introduced in 2003, the 350Z was the most recent incarnation of the Z family. Now, six years later, Nissan is launching the second generation of their sport coupe and has renamed it the 370Z, no doubt because of its 3.7 litre engine. Remaining consistent with its predecessors, the 370Z only comes as a two-seater and boasts exceptional handling. On the flip side of the coin, the 370Z is not practical, nor does it provide a happy medium between sport and luxury – and it is certainly not a mobile office. Still, for those who are looking for a true sports car and don’t place too much importance on the logo – there are more prestigious ones out there – the 370Z is hands down the car for you.

A simplified selection
Although there were a number of versions of the 350Z available, Nissan chose to simplify things by offering only one version and two sets of options for the 370Z coupe. The recently unveiled, new-age convertible will be on the market as of next year, while the older version will remain available in the 2009 line up. The first thing you’ll notice about the new Z is the price: at $39,998, it’s significantly more affordable than back in 2003 when it cost anywhere between $45,000 and $47,000. Not bad for a more mature and certainly more powerful car. No doubt the arrival of the GT-R forced Nissan to readjust the price of the new Z. Under the hood, you’ve got a whole new fourth-generation six-cylinder VQ engine that produces 26 hp more. With continuous variable valve timing, it can churn out 332 hp at 7,000 rpm and 270 lbs.-ft of torque at 5,200 rpm. This engine comes standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, though a seven-speed automatic is available for those who dislike having to handle a stick-shift.

Frankly, it would be hard to confuse the new Z with the old one. For starters, the 370Z has a much more mature appearance that suddenly makes the 350Z look dated. Sorry to all you 350Z owners, but I must say that the manufacturer really went all out on this new vehicle. The new Z looks much more compact, and it’s not simply an illusion produced by its new lines. The wheelbase is indeed smaller, and it’s now shorter overall.This in turn makes for a lighter and more rigid structure, which ultimately translates into superior performances. Rounder lines give the 370Z a Porsche-like allure, particularly thanks to wide rear fender. Also notable are the spoiler, the quadruple exhaust cannons and other little details like the red light centered in the bottom of the bumper, much like a Formula 1 car. Overall, the new Z features some dynamic lines, particularly with the sport package, which includes nice details, like 19-inch rims. It’s still got a long front end, a very low chassis overhang and a central driving position.

A more appealing interior
It’s fair to say that on the whole, Nissan has done some very good work, but it’s even more evident when it comes to the interior. I clearly remember the rather stark interior of the 350Z with its numerous unattractive plastic panels, specifically the ones on the doors. It appears that Nissan took great care in not repeating these same mistakes, as the 370Z is much more appealing. The car doors have shed the old plastic panels and now sport suede accents, while the dashboard boasts a much nicer fit and trim. That being said, the interior does leave something to be desired ergonomically. The dashboard layout allows you to clearly see the rev counter, but the same can’t be said of the speedometer, constantly making it difficult to see how fast you’re going (something you generally want to know when you’re behind the wheel of a high-powered car like this). They could solve this problem by installing a digital speedometer at the center.

Obviously, the 370Z was made mostly for drivers, and not so much for passengers. Forget practicalities, as they are few. The fact that it can only hold two passengers will surely cause some potential buyers to shy away and get an Infiniti Coupe. And while the G37 coupe is not that much more practical, its two rear seats allow it to squeeze in the kids from time to time – something you just can’t do with the Z. As far as cargo space goes, it’s acceptable, but the big brace that runs between the suspension towers detracts from its practicality.

On the road
To truly appreciate what the 370Z has to offer, you really have to get behind the steering wheel. Here’s a sports car that lives up to its potential and doesn’t cut corners (unless of course you want it to!). What it lacks in the luxury and comfort department, it makes up for in its power and speed. It all starts with a new engine with a better weight-to-power ratio, allowing for more vigorous performances. Put your foot down on the gas and you’ll be pushed back into your seat and impressed by the rich sound of the six-cylinder engine.

There’s no doubt that the six-speed manual transmission is the better choice, though I’ll admit that the seven-speed automatic does a decent job. It’s not as sophisticated as some sequential gearboxes offered by other manufacturers, but it’s got some interesting features nonetheless. With an effective manual mode, two paddle shifters behind the steering wheel allow you to select the gears. The Downshift Rev Matching system, however, is especially interesting. It automatically adjusts the engine speed to the next gear, imitating a professional driver. This ‘blip’ system is great not for its superior performances, but for the sound and effect it creates.

The Nissan 370Z isn’t the most practical car on the market and doesn’t have the same prestige as other rival marks have, but you have to admit that its new look suits it very well, as does its revamped interior. Here’s a car that places the most importance on performance and a pleasurable driving experience. Few competitors can boast performances like this for the same price. These are exactly the same points that the GT-R was built on.

Source: The 2009 Nissan 370Z: a true sports car - The Car Guide - Nissan 370Z 2009

Nothing out of ordiniary but since we have ALL THE REVIEWS here on our forum, why not add another one.

k20z3 · 06-20-2009, 11:45 PM

wow thats great to hear!

nogoodname · 06-20-2009, 11:47 PM

nice review, i liked it

fly yellow · 06-21-2009, 11:56 AM

It was a nice review, but I am so tired of these reviews whining about practicality. The Z is a true sports car and doesn't hide that fact. You don't see reviews of Porsche Caymans and Corvettes complaining about how practical they are. Just because the Z is affordable doesn't mean it has to be a family funster.

Are they correct when they say that the 350 was 45-47k when it first came out? I have a friend that ordered one before it was released and got one of the first ones. I had no idea he paid that much for it.

spearfish25 · 06-21-2009, 01:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fly yellow

It was a nice review, but I am so tired of these reviews whining about practicality. The Z is a true sports car and doesn't hide that fact. You don't see reviews of Porsche Caymans and Corvettes complaining about how practical they are. Just because the Z is affordable doesn't mean it has to be a family funster.

I love my 370 because it's completely IMPRACTICAL. I can't take my wife and my dog in the car at the same time, I have to jump through hoops to make it even drivable in the Chicago winter, and every time I park it's like The Hunt for Red October with me searching for where the curb is before I go over it with the front fascia. Practical? Not at all. Completely enthralling and lovable? Totally!

edeeZee · 06-21-2009, 01:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fly yellow

It was a nice review, but I am so tired of these reviews whining about practicality. The Z is a true sports car and doesn't hide that fact. You don't see reviews of Porsche Caymans and Corvettes complaining about how practical they are. Just because the Z is affordable doesn't mean it has to be a family funster.

Are they correct when they say that the 350 was 45-47k when it first came out? I have a friend that ordered one before it was released and got one of the first ones. I had no idea he paid that much for it.

Yeah

I don't know why some people think a sports car is supposed to be practical and versatile?

sports car = frivolous, not practical
sports car = compromised gas mileage, not "Prius"
sports car = anticipated high maintanence
driving sports car = passionate experience, not a mean to an end i.e. get from pt. a to pt. b

The 45-47K might mean this is some non-U.S. currency.

Zcott · 06-21-2009, 01:39 PM

Looks like the source is in Canada which would explain the price diffs...

fly yellow · 06-21-2009, 01:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by edeeZee

The 45-47K might mean this is some non-U.S. currency.

I think it's Canadian, but that would still put the 350 at 43-45K when it was introduced.

nogoodname · 06-21-2009, 01:43 PM

it is Canadian...lol.....and in Quebec....no mystery here

frost · 06-21-2009, 02:00 PM

Anyone ever seen a bad Z review? I like the good reviews and all, but they all basically say the same thing. Wondering if anyone has had a different POV.

AK370Z · 06-21-2009, 02:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by frost

Anyone ever seen a bad Z review? I like the good reviews and all, but they all basically say the same thing. Wondering if anyone has had a different POV.

Just wait till Jeremy Clarkson does his review.

frost · 06-21-2009, 02:07 PM

That's true. No holds barred with that guy.

semtex · 06-21-2009, 02:11 PM

Quote:

Also notable are the spoiler, the quadruple exhaust cannons

Am I missing something here? Or did this guy fail miserably at mathematics?

510z · 06-21-2009, 03:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by semtex

Am I missing something here? Or did this guy fail miserably at mathematics?

that unpossible

AK370Z · 06-21-2009, 04:22 PM

Quote:

Also notable are the spoiler, the quadruple exhaust cannons

Quote:

Originally Posted by semtex

Am I missing something here? Or did this guy fail miserably at mathematics?

Maybe he was driving this?

06-20-2009, 11:41 PM	#1 (permalink)
AK370Z Administrator Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: NJ Posts: 9,930 Drives: 09 370Z MB Sports M6 Rep Power: 10	The 2009 Nissan 370Z: a true sports car by The Car Guide For several years, the 350Z was the high-powered sports car at Nissan. This was the case up until last year when they released the GT-R, which became Nissan’s new sport and performance icon. Will the arrival of this model cause the 350Z to fade into the background? Definitely not. To ensure this doesn’t happen, Nissan has released a totally new Z model for 2009; a new sports car that is more affordable and, above all, much more sophisticated. The Z is inspired by a long line of sports cars ranging from the 240Z (originally launched 30 years ago) to the more recent 300ZX. Introduced in 2003, the 350Z was the most recent incarnation of the Z family. Now, six years later, Nissan is launching the second generation of their sport coupe and has renamed it the 370Z, no doubt because of its 3.7 litre engine. Remaining consistent with its predecessors, the 370Z only comes as a two-seater and boasts exceptional handling. On the flip side of the coin, the 370Z is not practical, nor does it provide a happy medium between sport and luxury – and it is certainly not a mobile office. Still, for those who are looking for a true sports car and don’t place too much importance on the logo – there are more prestigious ones out there – the 370Z is hands down the car for you. A simplified selection Although there were a number of versions of the 350Z available, Nissan chose to simplify things by offering only one version and two sets of options for the 370Z coupe. The recently unveiled, new-age convertible will be on the market as of next year, while the older version will remain available in the 2009 line up. The first thing you’ll notice about the new Z is the price: at $39,998, it’s significantly more affordable than back in 2003 when it cost anywhere between $45,000 and $47,000. Not bad for a more mature and certainly more powerful car. No doubt the arrival of the GT-R forced Nissan to readjust the price of the new Z. Under the hood, you’ve got a whole new fourth-generation six-cylinder VQ engine that produces 26 hp more. With continuous variable valve timing, it can churn out 332 hp at 7,000 rpm and 270 lbs.-ft of torque at 5,200 rpm. This engine comes standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, though a seven-speed automatic is available for those who dislike having to handle a stick-shift. Frankly, it would be hard to confuse the new Z with the old one. For starters, the 370Z has a much more mature appearance that suddenly makes the 350Z look dated. Sorry to all you 350Z owners, but I must say that the manufacturer really went all out on this new vehicle. The new Z looks much more compact, and it’s not simply an illusion produced by its new lines. The wheelbase is indeed smaller, and it’s now shorter overall.This in turn makes for a lighter and more rigid structure, which ultimately translates into superior performances. Rounder lines give the 370Z a Porsche-like allure, particularly thanks to wide rear fender. Also notable are the spoiler, the quadruple exhaust cannons and other little details like the red light centered in the bottom of the bumper, much like a Formula 1 car. Overall, the new Z features some dynamic lines, particularly with the sport package, which includes nice details, like 19-inch rims. It’s still got a long front end, a very low chassis overhang and a central driving position. A more appealing interior It’s fair to say that on the whole, Nissan has done some very good work, but it’s even more evident when it comes to the interior. I clearly remember the rather stark interior of the 350Z with its numerous unattractive plastic panels, specifically the ones on the doors. It appears that Nissan took great care in not repeating these same mistakes, as the 370Z is much more appealing. The car doors have shed the old plastic panels and now sport suede accents, while the dashboard boasts a much nicer fit and trim. That being said, the interior does leave something to be desired ergonomically. The dashboard layout allows you to clearly see the rev counter, but the same can’t be said of the speedometer, constantly making it difficult to see how fast you’re going (something you generally want to know when you’re behind the wheel of a high-powered car like this). They could solve this problem by installing a digital speedometer at the center. Obviously, the 370Z was made mostly for drivers, and not so much for passengers. Forget practicalities, as they are few. The fact that it can only hold two passengers will surely cause some potential buyers to shy away and get an Infiniti Coupe. And while the G37 coupe is not that much more practical, its two rear seats allow it to squeeze in the kids from time to time – something you just can’t do with the Z. As far as cargo space goes, it’s acceptable, but the big brace that runs between the suspension towers detracts from its practicality. On the road To truly appreciate what the 370Z has to offer, you really have to get behind the steering wheel. Here’s a sports car that lives up to its potential and doesn’t cut corners (unless of course you want it to!). What it lacks in the luxury and comfort department, it makes up for in its power and speed. It all starts with a new engine with a better weight-to-power ratio, allowing for more vigorous performances. Put your foot down on the gas and you’ll be pushed back into your seat and impressed by the rich sound of the six-cylinder engine. There’s no doubt that the six-speed manual transmission is the better choice, though I’ll admit that the seven-speed automatic does a decent job. It’s not as sophisticated as some sequential gearboxes offered by other manufacturers, but it’s got some interesting features nonetheless. With an effective manual mode, two paddle shifters behind the steering wheel allow you to select the gears. The Downshift Rev Matching system, however, is especially interesting. It automatically adjusts the engine speed to the next gear, imitating a professional driver. This ‘blip’ system is great not for its superior performances, but for the sound and effect it creates. The Nissan 370Z isn’t the most practical car on the market and doesn’t have the same prestige as other rival marks have, but you have to admit that its new look suits it very well, as does its revamped interior. Here’s a car that places the most importance on performance and a pleasurable driving experience. Few competitors can boast performances like this for the same price. These are exactly the same points that the GT-R was built on. Source: The 2009 Nissan 370Z: a true sports car - The Car Guide - Nissan 370Z 2009 Nothing out of ordiniary but since we have ALL THE REVIEWS here on our forum, why not add another one. __________________ The370Z Signature Pictures ll Want to rock our forum decals on your car? Then click here! ll How to Embed YouTube Videos In a Post STOP! (Hammertime) ll Become a Premium Member Click HERE ll F.A.Q. Are You a Nissan Dealer? Click Here to Become A "Supporting Dealer" and Start Listing Your 370Zs In Our Inventory Section My Monterey Blue Z ll My Exhaust --> My Intake --> G3 Nissan's Official Response Regarding Oil Temp Issue: CLICK HERE Need a Set of Cheap Winter wheels /Tires? Then Visit The Banner Link Below and Place Your Order. You'll Help Keep The370Z Alive.

06-20-2009, 11:45 PM	#2 (permalink)
k20z3 A True Z Fanatic Join Date: May 2009 Location: Denver CO Age: 33 Posts: 2,146 Drives: 2006 Civic SI HFP Rep Power: 404	wow thats great to hear! __________________ 2006 RALLYE RED HONDA CIVIC SI HFP Clint's Helpful Photoshop Hints!

06-21-2009, 11:56 AM	#4 (permalink)
fly yellow Enthusiast Member Join Date: May 2009 Location: Baltimore, MD Posts: 455 Drives: 09 yellow 370z Rep Power: 264	It was a nice review, but I am so tired of these reviews whining about practicality. The Z is a true sports car and doesn't hide that fact. You don't see reviews of Porsche Caymans and Corvettes complaining about how practical they are. Just because the Z is affordable doesn't mean it has to be a family funster. Are they correct when they say that the 350 was 45-47k when it first came out? I have a friend that ordered one before it was released and got one of the first ones. I had no idea he paid that much for it. __________________ A severed foot is the ultimate stocking stuffer. Mitch Hedberg

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06-20-2009, 11:47 PM	#3 (permalink)
nogoodname Lifetime Premium Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Montreal Posts: 22,357 Drives: E46 M3 Rep Power: 1764	nice review, i liked it

06-21-2009, 01:39 PM	#7 (permalink)
Zcott Base Member Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: D/FW, Texas Posts: 89 Drives: 09 370Z Sport PG M6 Rep Power: 15	Looks like the source is in Canada which would explain the price diffs...

06-21-2009, 01:43 PM	#9 (permalink)
nogoodname Lifetime Premium Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Montreal Posts: 22,357 Drives: E46 M3 Rep Power: 1764	it is Canadian...lol.....and in Quebec....no mystery here

06-21-2009, 02:00 PM	#10 (permalink)
frost Retired admin Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Winterfell Posts: 106,613 Drives: Your Wife Crazy Rep Power: 0	Anyone ever seen a bad Z review? I like the good reviews and all, but they all basically say the same thing. Wondering if anyone has had a different POV.

06-21-2009, 02:07 PM	#12 (permalink)
frost Retired admin Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Winterfell Posts: 106,613 Drives: Your Wife Crazy Rep Power: 0	That's true. No holds barred with that guy.