Nissan 350Z Coupé (03-10) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 27 April 2009
The 350Z proves that Nissan can make a sports car that is reliable and well built, but also involving to drive with great performance. It's a sharply styled two seater that's also available as a roadster, but perhaps the biggest attraction is that it's such great value for money, especially compared to more prestigious alternatives from Porsche or BMW. It does have a poorly designed boot though - the space is limited due to a large support brace - while the quality of the cabin on early cars was below usual Nissan standards. The Z has undergone several tweaks since it was first launched in 2003 including more powerful engines and some much needed interior improvements in 2006. It was upgraded again in 2007 with an extensively modified engine identifed by a bulging bonnet.
4 out of 5

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4 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£25,500 - £29,500

Used price range:

£5,070 - £16,065

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Superb combination of performance, sportscar looks and value for money

Not the most practical coupe, poor interior finish on earlier cars

The 350Z proves that Nissan can make a sports car that is reliable and well built, but also involving to drive with great performance. It's a sharply styled two seater that's also available as a roadster, but perhaps the biggest attraction is that it's such great value for money, especially compared to more prestigious alternatives from Porsche or BMW. It does have a poorly designed boot though - the space is limited due to a large support brace - while the quality of the cabin on early cars was below usual Nissan standards. The Z has undergone several tweaks since it was first launched in 2003 including more powerful engines and some much needed interior improvements in 2006. It was upgraded again in 2007 with an extensively modified engine identifed by a bulging bonnet.

Driving & Performance

  • Performance

    5 out of 5

    "Launched with a 280bhp 3.5-litre V6, the 350Z offers rapid performance with a 0-62mph time of 5.9..."

  • Handling

    4.5 out of 5

    "The 350Z feels beautifully balanced on the road. It has an exceptionally stiff body and low centre..."

Comfort

  • Comfort

    3 out of 5

    "As a two-seater, the 350Z offers decent room for both passengers, with supportive yet comfortable..."

  • Practicality

    2.5 out of 5

    "Practicality is never going to be a strong point in a two-seat sports car but even so, the 350Z is..."

  • Equipment

    4 out of 5

    "The 350Z is very good value with the standard model coming with climate control, trip computer,..."

  • Behind the wheel

    3.5 out of 5

    "While it always feels like a sportscar, the trouble with the first run of 350Zs was that the finish..."

Costs

  • Running costs

    2.5 out of 5

    "Nissan servicing is good value so the 350Z needn't be an expensive car to run, although maintenance..."

  • Green credentials

    2 out of 5

    "The 350Z is a polluting model with CO2 emissions around 280g/km. Unlike some two seaters, such as..."

Safety & Reliability

  • Safety

    4 out of 5

    "There's no official Euro NCAP crash rating for the 350Z but all UK-specification models come with..."

  • Reliability

    4.5 out of 5

    "Nissan has a fine reputation for mechanical reliability and we've heard of no major issues with the..."

Buying & Selling

  • Buying new

    2.5 out of 5

    "There is a lot of car for the money here, so you're getting a decent deal. It might be possible to..."

  • Buying used

    4 out of 5

    "If you're after a reliable, fun and affordable sports car then the 350Z is a car that appeals to the..."

  • Selling

    4 out of 5

    "Demand for the 350Z will always be high, especially for those after an affordable way into sports..."

Gallery

  • Interior Nissan 350Z Coupé (03-10)
  • Exterior Nissan 350Z Coupé (03-10)
  • Exterior Nissan 350Z Coupé (03-10)
  • Exterior Nissan 350Z Coupé (03-10)

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