Nissan's legendary Z car
In the space of a few years Nissan have revived the classic Z badge from the 1960s 240Z (Datsun) performance car to even greater heights in the latest rein-carnation as the 350Z. The 350Z roared into Australia in 2003 and hot on the heels of the 25th Anniversary 350Z edition has recently freshened the interior and added more power to its engine. As part of the 2006 model year update, the 350Z is now available with a 221 kW engine across the range. The 350Z's VQ35DE engine - the same engine that powered the 350Z anniversary model - has been boosted to 221 kW on six-speed manual models, up from 206 kW. The 350Z's engine power was increased by improving induction efficiency with larger diameter air ducts and retuning the valve timing, and now generates 221 kW of power @ 6400 rpm and 353 Nm of torque @ 4800 rpm. All five-speed automatic variants come with a 206 kW version of the VQ35DE engine which produces 363 Nm of torque at 4800 rpm.
Independent multi-link suspension front and rear, with a front strut tower brace and an integrated rear strut tower brace combined with front and rear stabiliser bars guarantees sure-footed handling and dynamics. Modifications to the suspension tuning and steering assistance have improved the ride, handling and feedback to create a more harmonious driving experience. All touring models now receive larger 320mm front brake discs (up from 296mm) and 308mm rear brake discs (up from 292mm) for improved thermal capacity (reduced brake fade) and improved feel. While continuing the basic design cues popular among customers, the Z's exterior styling has been enhanced thanks to a redesigned front bumper and new Xenon headlamps, as well as the addition of high-brightness light emitting diode (LED) rear combination lamps. The remodelled Z comes standard with newly styled 18-inch aluminium wheels on all grades. The 2006 model year 350Z line-up consists of five variants - three Coupes and two Roadsters. The Touring Coupe is available with either the six-speed manual transmission for $62,990 or the five-speed automatic for $64,990.
For our test we drove a stunning silver 6-speed manual hardtop Coupe, and in the space of a week managed 1,800km of city and country driving. First up the 350Z looks stunning. The 350Z is every inch a sports car and which- ever angle you view it, the sporty chiselled lines of the Coupe indicate its latent performance. The design pays homage to the 240Z with an open grille, and side window lines are reminiscent of the 300Z, yet the overall package is modern and functional, and certainly eye-catching. Large wheel arches are nicely filled with 18-inch alloy wheels, and Xenon headlights are sleek and sweep back in harmony with the bonnet lines. Inside Nissan have upgraded the cabin, while under the bonnet power is up from 206 kW to 221 kW for the manual models. Power is a healthy 353 Nm at 4800 rpm, although down 10 Nm on the 35th Anniversary edition 350Z. Many of the improvements are hidden from view, but once on the road or in winding hills, chassis and suspension improvements become evident.
Modifications have been made to the multi-link front and rear suspension as well as the power steering assistance for sure footed handling and excellent on road dynamics. Ride quality is good - even on some pretty suspect major interstate highways - and overall driveability is a relaxed and enjoyable experience. The harshness of ride expected in a sports car doesn't eventuate, except where roads are excessively poor. The driving dynamics are pure sports car and the 350Z drives and handles better than most. Structural stability is strong and I suspect balance is nearly ideal with traditional front engine and rear drive layout. The 350Z shares the same 3.5-litre V6 with some other Nissan models and variable valve timing and electronic accelerator provides excellent response and launch feel. All models feature composite carbon-fibre drive shaft, a traction control system, viscous limited-slip rear differential, electronic drive-by-wire throttle, dual outlet exhaust and the improved close-ratio six-speed manual transmission. The cabin has been improved and looks superb with additional aluminium trim accents, soft-feel materials and orange leather upholstery.
Standard features across the range include heated power adjustable leather sports seats, automatic climate control air-conditioning, Bose 240 watt sound system with seven speakers, power windows, door locks and mirrors and a three-bay gauge cluster for oil pressure, voltmeter and trip computer, dual front and side SRS airbags, curtain SRS airbags (Coupe only), cruise control and drilled aluminium pedals. Access is easy with large, full opening doors. The seats look stunning with excellent shoulder and upper back support, but we found on long stints in the car that lower lumbar support is woeful and additional padding in the cushion wouldn't go astray. Seat travel and backrest angle are power adjustable. The steering column is adjustable for tilt and, cleverly, the instrument pod is attached to the column so that when adjusted, clear view is maintained of instruments. You tend to sit stretched out in the 350Z and vision is reasonable, although knowing where rear extremities of the car are when parking in tight spaces can be challenging. A nice touch is the three retro style dials located in the centre of the dashboard and sharply angled at the driver. The right hand dial being a digital speedo that is far more accurate and visible than the analogue one in the instrument pod attached to the steering column.
Cruise control and audio switches are located on the steering wheel and other switches are generally well located. The Coupe gains six airbags (front, side, curtain) which is a good safety package. The interior features greater use of authentic aluminium accents, soft-feel materials, steering wheel mounted radio controls, additional storage spaces, an optimised control switch layout and other refinements which enhance the Z's quality and ease of use. Storage is at a premium with small door pockets and no glovebox. A lockable alternative is provided behind the passenger seat and is large enough to accommodate a laptop computer safely. There are two other small storage bins behind the driver, suitable to carry a few CDs and there is also a 12 volt plug. Boot space is limited with the steeply raked rear window and a body brace which runs across the middle of the storage space. There is room to stow a couple of soft bags, which is suitable for a weekend away. A space saver spare wheel is stored under the floor. On the road, the 350Z is a great driver's car. Turn the key and the V6 emits a gravelly rumble, giving warning of its capability.
Torque is exceptionally good and the six speed box is sharp with close ratio gears. Even in higher gears, the 350Z will pull well, but it's when the revs are high, at around 3500 rpm that serious sports performance is your reward. The manual gear shift is an enjoyable short throw, but a firm action is needed to counter resistance at each gate. In addition to its excellent arsenal of vehicle dynamic control, traction control, limited slip rear diff and drive-by-wire throttle, the 350Z has excellent stopping power with four wheel Brembo brakes. The Coupe also gains underbody diffusers and a rear spoiler for better aerodynamic performance. To state the obvious, the 350Z looks, sounds and handles like a class sports car. It is. Acceleration is brisk, interior comfort livable and, as an overall package, is five star. Suspension and handling are improved and other more notable sports car manufacturers could learn much from the 350Z. And finally, one other surprise we discovered. With an 80-litre fuel tank we consistently achieved in excess of 700km from a tank of premium unleaded. For a sports car that was not driven with any expectations of economy, but for performance and fun, that was a notable plus!
Key data: Nissan 350Z
Engine: 3.5-litre V6 with continuously variable valve timing control system
Max. power: 221kW @ 6400 rpm
Max. torque: 353Nm @ 4800
Transmission: Manual close ratio 6-spd
Steering: Speed sensitive power assisted rack & pinion
Turning circle: 10.8m
Front suspension: Independent 3-link aluminium alloy with stabiliser bar & strut.
Rear suspension: Independent 4-link aluminium alloy with stabiliser bar, strut bar & aluminium alloy sub frame.
Dimensions: 4315 (L) x 1815 (W) x 1320mm(H); Wheelbase; 2650mm
Track F/R: 1535/1545.
Wheels: 18-inch with 18x8JJ high performance Bridgestone Potenza tyres
Brakes: Front/rear: power assisted discs, 4-wheel ABS, BA, EBD.
