Nissan has a long heritage of building sharp handling Z-badged sports cars going back to the 1960s and this smart looking coupe is the current custodian of that moniker. With a rumbling V6 engine, heavy manual gearchange and low-slung driving position it’s very much in the mould of the old-testament two-seater performance coupes that precede it. 

In terms of performance it competes with top end models like the Porsche 718 Cayman, Audi TT and BMW 2 Series, but represents far better value for money. All of these cars offer far newer technology, and are very much focused on their four-cylinder versions – the ones most people buy in the real world.

Large displacement, naturally aspirated engine

There’s only one motor to choose from in the 370Z range – a larger than life 3.7-litre V6 with either 328- or 344hp depending on whether you pick the standard car or the Nismo-tuned version.

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Either way it’s a big-hearted unit with plenty of power on tap, plus a distinct lack of turbocharging – unlike the majority of its rivals. If you’re unsure what benefits this brings to you, you definitely need to read the rest of this full review.

This V6 engine gives the 370Z a very different character to something like a Porsche 718 Cayman, which makes do with a smaller, less characterful powerplant. There are drawbacks of course, not least in terms of emissions and fuel consumption.

Simple range to navigate

Five trim levels exist in the Nissan 370Z range – the standard model, Sport, Sport Touring, NISMO and finally the Touring. Entry-level cars come with lots of kit, including 18-inch alloys, keyless entry and ignition, climate control and a limited-slip differential. 

Climbing up to GT adds things like sat-nav while the Nismo car comes with a particularly lairy looking bodykit and standout ducktail spoiler. Other features such as a NissanConnect Satellite Navigation and Entertainment System and Audio System with 11 Speakers are added.

Special model announced for 2020

The 50th Anniversary Edition Nissan 370Z (above) was first revealed to the public at the New York International Auto Show in April 2019, it will be available in the in 2020. It will cost £38,995 when it goes on sale in the UK.

It features a two-tone livery, which pays a tribute to the original competition BRE Datsun 240Z, a car driven to several SCCA National Championship wins by John Morton. Available in white and red, or black and silver, the special edition boasts a streamlined and athletic profile. Internal features include four suede covered seats and an Alcantara steering wheel.

Old-school handling style

The Zed’s German rivals offer something more of a refined driving style, the 370Z is much more hairy chested, with heavy control weights and scruff-of-the-neck appeal. It’s actually quite sophisticated in its handling however, with loads of grip thanks to a standard limited-slip differential. The traction control is also quite keen to step in when things start to get out of shape too.

In 2018 a new clutch was installed that promised a slightly lighter action and this has certainly helped the overall usability of the 370Z.