From the inaugural Datsun 240Z introduced in 1969 to the prolific and timeless 300ZX in the mid-90s to the wildly successful 350Z released in 2004, the Z-car Nissan coupe spans 40 years of rich history, going down in history as the best-selling sports car series of all time (and as a Nissan fan myself, frankly, I’d love to get my hands on an old Datsun or 300ZX). The latest rendition is the 370Z, the sixth-generation Z-car released in 2009; essentially, it is an updated version of its 350Z counterpart.
Nissan 370Z Horsepower
Late last summer, Nissan introduced the 2010 370Z Roadster, a convertible version of the coupe starting at $48,498 Cdn MSRP. Powered by a 3.7L, 24-valve DOHC V6, this rocket puts down 332 hp at 7000 pm and 270 lb-ft of torque. A 7-speed automatic tranny is standard, so are the paddle shifters. Downshift rev-matching, a multilink suspension both front and rear, 4-wheel power disc brakes, and a vehicle dynamic control system are also all standard.
Exterior Styling
The exterior styling is aggressive yet sleek with styling cues, particularly the hardtop/non-Roadster version, reminiscent of the 1969 240Z, at least in my eyes. From certain angles, it looks like a throwback to the original.
Standard features include the boomerang-style bi-functional xenon headlamps, heated power outside mirrors, a cloth power-folding roof in black, and a fixed glass wind deflector. This press 370Z model came with the $4000 Sport Package upgrade adding 19-inch Rays super-lightweight alloy rims wrapped in 245/40R19 rubber up front and 275/35/R19 in the rear, compared to the standard P225/50R18 front, P245/45/R18 rear setup. This package also ups the stopping assembly with huge 14-inch discs up front and 13-inch in the rear.
2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster Interior
Inside, the cabin is totally stunning; undeniably sporty yet super refined. The Navigation Package upgrade on this Roadster will only cost you an extra $2500, unlike most manufacturers, often charging nearly double. This option finds the Nissan Navigation System, a 9.3GB music hard drive and USB, an integrated interface for iPod, auxiliary audio/video input jacks, and a single in-dash CD slot.
Frankly, sticking to the standard attire is sufficient, considering it includes the essentials like an 8-speaker audio Bose system, XM satellite radio, a Bluetooth hands-free phone system, and an AM/FM with 6-CD in-dash changer, to name just a few.
Takeaway
Leaving the top-up would be a shame. During my week with the 370Z, the days were warm and the evenings cool. Fortunately, this Roadster comes equipped (standard!) with heated and cooled seats, essentially pushing air through the perforated seats in the seatbacks and bottom cushions, keeping your ass toasty at night and cool in the heat. The leather-wrapped steering wheel, 8-way driver/4-way passenger seats, 3-bay center gauges including trip computer, and leather/synthetic suede sport seats are all included.
