The Nissan 370Z Is Charmingly Flawed

"Andrew Fails" (fails) 11/13/2015 at 13:05 • Filed to: Nissan, 370Z, review, NISMO, RFD, RightFootDown, Kansas City, Missouri, KCMO

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Generally speaking, most of the cars I get a chance to drive are relatively stock. Oh, sure, there’s the occasional !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! to spice things up, but most are showroom fresh. But every once in a while, someone tosses me the keys to something a little more interesting. That is why I was up before dawn on a Saturday, when the temperature was barely above freezing. Generally speaking, I tend to try and avoid cold mornings, as I am a small man, of delicate constitution. However, I can make exceptions for money, women, or horsepower.

So, why was I sitting in a parking lot and the end of a dead end road, when my girlfriend was at work, and my bank account was sulking from lack of attention? Because someone offered me a tuned Nissan 370Z to beat on to my heart’s content. We are talking full on Need For Speed spec here. Poly bushings, slammed suspension, ECU tune, full bolt-ons. The works. It even had an aftermarket front lip. Be still my boyracer heart.

Now, I had never driven a 370Z before, although I drove a handful of 350Zs back in the day. But I knew what to expect. A lighter, tighter version of that. Some nimble little two seater, like a Japanese Porsche Boxster. But that is not what I got. The Nissan is not a precision instrument. Everything is a bit rougher than its German counterparts. The interior sounds like a rattlesnake having its way with a beehive, and you can see the shift knob visibly vibrating.

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The seating position instills a sense of drama upon first entering. You sit very low, and very far back. The seating position reminds me of a Corvette. Instead of sitting up front and center, you are deep in the bowels of the machine. You’re not piloting from the bridge, you’re huddled down in the hold, giving orders from there. It feels as if the rear fenders are wrapped around your ears. The steering wheel on this particular car was trimmed in carbon fiber, complete with the yellow center stripe, reminiscent of Porsche cup cars. Is that strictly necessary on a street car? Of course not. But it’s rad. And isn’t that what’s really important?

The Nissan is a car that rewards a heavy hand. It performs better, the worse you treat it. Let it walk around on you a little bit. Bang it off the rev limiter. Just throw it in, and gather it up on the other side. The low suspension means you need to be a little cautious on your road selection, but the car soaks up abuse with no complaint. It is not some dainty piece of clockwork. It is designed to be thrashed.

I have to admit. I have a personal bias against the V6 as an engine configuration. I think it is lacking in personality. I don’t think it is mechanically deficient in any sense, just that it doesn’t make my bits tingle. That being said, the 370Z’s engine is a workhorse. While it make not inspire me to wax poetically, it is one damn solid drivetrain. In some cars, you’re constantly banging through the gears, trying to keep the engine singing in a narrow powerband just shy of the redline. This car doesn’t require that. I would leave it in just third gear for miles on end. The power is so usable throughout the entire rev range that I rarely had to change up or down. On a longer stretch, I might make a brief sojourn up to fourth, just to see how it was, but then immediately drop back down. You can just let that lump up front do the work, while you try to keep it out of the weeds.

The Nissan is a symbol of a bygone era. A low slung, curvaceous, two seat, front engine, rear wheel drive, naturally aspirated sports car with a manual transmission. Nearly every manufacturer is transitioning to some manner of turbocharging to meet emission and fuel efficiency requirements. I know that turbos make sense from an engineering standpoint. I know they allow smaller, more efficient designs. I know that, and I can accept it logically. But slotting that exhaust-gobbling gremlin into the mix removes something intangible.

With a naturally aspirated engine, you lose some efficiency, but gain an immediacy that is difficult to quantify. Every throttle input seems that much more visceral. When you blip the gas to rev-match your downshifts, the Nissan’s revs are whipcrack-fast at leaping skyward. Under hard acceleration, there is an urgency that vibrates through the controls that is hard to capture with turbocharging. It is one more layer that has been peeled away between the machine and your brain.

So, now that you’ve got this speed racer, where do you take it? You need twisty roads, with a minimum of cross streets. You also need early mornings, for a few different reasons. First and foremost, sunrise makes for the best photos. Secondly, the wee hours minimizes the amount of traffic, cyclists, and police you will have to contend with. Nothing puts a damper on your day like making a donation to your local municipality.

For our compatriots on the west coast, they are spoiled for choice. The canyons of Malibu are famous the world over for their amazing driving roads. Here in Missouri, things are a bit more difficult, unless you want to do a transit stage of a couple hours. It’s a bit trickier to find a long stretch of suitable tarmac, so you tend to do piecemeal sections. You wind up hunched over the GPS screen like it is some sort of scrying orb, searching for anything that resembles corners.

Sometimes that leads to roads closed by construction. Sometimes that leads to half paved roads containing beautiful, quaint, little cabins that are just perfect for getting murdered in. But sometimes, just sometimes, you find miles of empty, tree lined roads, with nary a traffic enforcement officer in sight. Then you can settle in, and start to understand what this car is all about.

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Sure there are some quirks and foibles to get used to. Yes, the method for selecting reverse is asinine. Pushing the shift knob down, and then all the way to the right and down never feels natural. Yes, the rear plastics buzz and rattle. Yes, the V6 engine lacks character. Yes, the pedal position makes heel toe downshifting awkward, but maybe that’s just my tiny, girlish feet. But the 370Z has a certain honesty that I can respect.

It would be easy to dismiss the Nissan 370Z as being a stunning body, without much character, like your college girlfriend, but that is not telling the whole story. Sure, it has flaws. Sure, it’s not the most enjoyable car I’ve ever driven. But it knows what it is, and makes no apologies for that. There’s something respectable in that.

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Fails is a freelance photographer who sometimes pretends to be literate. You can see his portfolio at !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! . He is talking in third person because it makes him feel mysterious.

415s30 W123TSXWaggoIIIIIIo ( •_•))°) > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 13:48

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I have only sat in the 370 and GT-R at the showroom in Yokohama, I did feel like I was out of the way, down behind the dash. But I drive an S30 Z so I thought I’m just not used to the modern cars with more around you.

Andrew Fails > 415s30 W123TSXWaggoIIIIIIo ( •_•))°) 11/13/2015 at 13:59

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It’s just a low seating position, even for a modern car.

Speed > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 14:07

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This was a very cool write up and perspective on the Z. It seems these cars don’t get as much love as one would think. I really dig them. They’ll do high 12s stock, stick nicely around the bends, look good and the VQ sounds really cool.

Your description of the seating position made me think of my ‘98 Z28. It’s awkward initially, but very comfortable once you’re used to it.

Andrew Fails > Speed 11/13/2015 at 14:10

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Thank you! Yeah, I always liked the look of the 370Z, but they never seemed to catch on. Not sure why.

I hoon, therefore I am > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 14:43

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I thought the seats in my 350z were low, then I drove a friend’s 370. Just wow. That said, it was a little comforting, almost like a cocoon; something I wish more cars featured.

ZoopZoopLoops > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 14:51

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I’ve been waiting for some Jal/Oppo attention on the 370Z. By the numbers, it sounds like a perfect sports car. 330hp, small rwd, Japanese reliability, not too heavy at a little over 3k lbs. Could be lighter, but no big deal if it drives well. I share your sentiment with the want for it to be a Japanese Cayman.

Love for the Z has fallen short over the years. Partly because some hate the looks, partly because it’s getting old, but so much because the magazine reviews end up with the same conclusion; that it has no character. It seems skews more toward last gen’s V6 Mustang than the Cayman.

I thought the Nismo, with the higher redline would be its redemption, only to read that improving the individual parts did not remedy the whole. So if it doesn’t embody a lustworthy sports car, but shares the impractical form factor, then it hasn’t done itself any favors for the Jalop. I certainly still think it’s a good respectable car, but it’s not the sports car we’re looking for.

Thanks for providing a review of a modified one. I have wondered if the correct aftermarket can transform this into a visceral driving machine, but it seems not in this case. Does the Hyundai Genesis share the same fate?

VW-Guy-R32 > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 17:26

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They rattle so hard. My ocd wouldn’t be able to handle it. Id be going through the interior every night looking for the loose bolts. *spoiler alert, there aren’t any.

BILL-LONGDICK-CLINTON > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 17:27

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They were decent cars when they first came out, pretty quick and ok around a corner but nothing special. Now they show their age, and are in badly need of a complete revival.

dannymac63 > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 17:27

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You lost me a Japanese Porsche Boxster. Aside from 6 cylinders, 2 seats and RWD, they’re COMPLETELY different in every way.

Big Bubba Ray > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 17:28

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Awesome write up. Where are you in Missouri?

Nadz > Speed 11/13/2015 at 17:32

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High 12s? Maybe in mine shaft air with 500 pounds of weight reduction. Most are in the high 13s. Car was cool when it first came out, but nissan has dropped the ball in keeping up with the competition. Why get a 370z when you can get a GT or an SS for the same money, make 100 more horsepower, get better gas mileage, and have better handling? Car needs a refresh.

nothinbutajakethingbaby > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 17:33

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Do you have this pic in a higher res?

featherlite > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 17:34

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With a light touch of “mod”... these cars can look surprisingly good. I wonder if these will generate a following like the 240Z’s do now in 20-30 years when all cars on the road are Google Koala’s or Mercedes Cylons....

Opposite Locksmith > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 17:36

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I think we all agree that Nissan should make a 2k$ “Mid engined” layout trim option on the 370z for those who are into that

Automotivethinker.com > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 17:38

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A lot of things in this review sound kinda made up, and the review makes it sound like the 370z is the only front engine sports car on the market. Ever hear of a car called the corvette?

Tohru > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 17:38

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I have a fair bit of seat time in a G35, and it’s exactly like what you’re describing... except the honesty. The G35 is a little kid trying to play dress-up: it tries so, so hard to be a luxury GT car - from the leather seats and the added back seat for two friends you hate, to the pop-up nav screen above a center stack adorned in authentic artificial brushed aluminum trim, to the sticker inside the trunk lid that shows how to fit two bags of golf clubs in it with the seat folded up. Yet it’s just a tarted-up 350Z.

Dat-Z > 415s30 W123TSXWaggoIIIIIIo ( •_•))°) 11/13/2015 at 17:39

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A lot of it is the safety features that we’re lacking (S30 Z owner here as well). You’re surrounded by airbags in the new ones. I felt the same way when I sat in a 370Z and recently an FR-S. Very confined. It’s very different.

AudiB5Hawaii > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 17:42

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Its like driving to drive out of these:

Garrett Davis > 415s30 W123TSXWaggoIIIIIIo ( •_•))°) 11/13/2015 at 17:43

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The seating position is similar to the Z32 300ZX as well. You feel hunkered down and held in. It feels more cockpit like than most cars. Similar to a C5/C6 Corvette as well.

Pengwynn > Speed 11/13/2015 at 17:48

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I think the lack of love stems from this being based on and still too similar to the 350Z, which entered production 13 years ago. 13! And then it’s still a $50K car.

472CID > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 17:48

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It would be easy to dismiss the Nissan 370Z as being a stunning body, without much character,

I’ve never heard anyone call a 370Z stunning before. Anyway nice write up.

ZunesForBaboons > Opposite Locksmith 11/13/2015 at 17:53

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Only 2 grand for basically an entirely redeveloped car. Sounds legit. Coming 2018.

Opposite Locksmith > ZunesForBaboons 11/13/2015 at 17:54

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See, you get it man

tsy1987 > Speed 11/13/2015 at 17:56

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The VQ sound is unique... but I haven’t decided if I like it or not...

JimSlade > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 17:58

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I was behind a blue one of these today w a new 2016 temp tag on it.

As it attempted to race a c6 at a stoplight I thought two things...one...do they still make these...and two...that’s driving is no shocker.

WillyWonka12 > Nadz 11/13/2015 at 17:59

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Sadly, I’m kind of with you on this one. I drove a fairly new 370Z recently and it didn’t feel any faster than our 5 year old Altima. When I looked up the specs, I was surprised to see I wasn’t wrong. It handled a bit better, but definitely felt dated, like a ‘90s RX-7.

Dr_Watson > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 18:11

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I laughed when seeing the “Japanese Boxster” line (I did GT Academy so I got a decent amount of track time in Nismo 370s) then appreciated you came to the correct assessment just after. Car is a complete brute. More of a Japanese muscle car than a corner carving weapon. The non-defeatable auto blip on the Nismo takes care of your heel toe concern btw.

Kneepucker > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 18:12

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You dont need to heel - toe the 370Z, it features auto rev on down shift.

Andrew Fails > Big Bubba Ray 11/13/2015 at 18:15

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Kansas City.

300hp30mpgrwdfor30k > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 18:28

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I love Z’s, never got the disdain. Glad to see this on Jalopnik. If they were bigger inside I’d have one.

LAVA > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 18:29

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“Yes, the pedal position makes heel toe downshifting awkward,”

Luckily you don’t need to worry about heel toe downshifting because the sport package spec’d models come with syncro rev that automatically does it for you

RevengencerAlf > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 18:29

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It’s only part of the reason I’m sure, but based on what I see on the road and on the market, I will almost guarantee you that the market for it is probably 50/50 split with the G37. They’re basically the same car. Same engine, same chassis, largely the same performance options available, yet for every 350z or 370z I see on the roads I probably see 5 G35/37 coupes. The fact that their look is slightly more understated, with slightly smoother lines, is probably part of why they did a better job catching on.

The IPL models (or the sport couple models before the IPLS existed in the G35 era) are basically identical in every way to the 370z except for some minor body styling, the 2+2 back seats that nobody ever uses, and the interior stylings that come with a luxury brand. For all that and what’s fundamentally not a noteworthy price gap or anything, it is the same car. I’ve driven both and honestly, the G37 felt maybe the tiiiiniest bit more sluggish, enough that had I not been specifically comparing them, I never would have noticed.

jepawa > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 18:33

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Nicely put, people ask me why a 370Z and not a mustang or a Porsche? I just feel like they have a certain personality that clicks with me. I am 6'2" and the car fits fine with me. I could see some issues for shorter people though.

Doug Nash > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 18:34

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Because my old G37s had about 95% of the performance of the Z, but in a 100% better package for daily life. And I’m not taking a shot at the Z, but more making the point that Nissan’s best car in the past 15-years has also been the only good Infiniti.

Lekker > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 18:40

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I’ve had my z34 nismo for two years now, still get a huge grin when I start driving it. Once you get used to the “flaws”, you can certainly learn to exploit them. But I’ve still yet to find such balance on any other car, whether it is position, agility or combination of size, etc. And I’ve driven an E92...

Amazing review :)

Charley V > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 18:41

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Nice work. I initially clicked on the article because it looks like a place I like to ride. Turns out you are in KC! Holy smokes. I don’t think it is the same place after all, south on Holmes to Kenneth road?

Speed > Nadz 11/13/2015 at 18:43

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Snagging 12s are very rare, but possible. They make the power and mph well enough to run them with a solid launch, driving and good weather.

http://www.the370z.com/track-autocros…

Anyone stuck in the high 13s needs to hang it up. Mid to low is fine, but running 350Z times in a 370 is a problem.

It’s disappointing that more wasn’t done to keep the car fresh, but it’s a pretty bad ass car that starts at a hair under 30k. I’d prefer a 5.0, but would take one over an SS.

Speed > Pengwynn 11/13/2015 at 18:47

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I don’t know what a decked out one costs, but base base base models are right under 30k.

AM3R shamefully returns > Dr_Watson 11/13/2015 at 18:50

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Are you a fan of the automatic rev matching? Haven’t experienced it but I feel like if it’s a good set up i’d enjoy it.

Speed > tsy1987 11/13/2015 at 18:50

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I have always liked the spacey sound the VQ mills make. It isn’t my favorite, but I dig it. You know it when you hear it! One can be made to sound bad, but just about anything can. I think that with a stock to moderate exhaust the VQ is a really cool sounding engine, but opinions are like assholes right? To each!

catzo5 > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 18:52

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more pictures plz

350Zed > RevengencerAlf 11/13/2015 at 18:55

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I’ve owned both a 350Z and a G35. Zs feel like raw, flawed, fun sports cars. Gs feel like Zs that went up to the buffet for seconds too often.

It's a crying shame that Infiniti draws more sales than Nissan, mostly because of brand image.

DoogieFullHouser > 472CID 11/13/2015 at 19:05

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Its definitely grown on me... or maybe its just that the majority of cars have become vastly more hideous during the 370Z’s life cycle...

AAsearles > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 19:07

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I could almost use the same word-for-word review (minus the V6, awkward Reverse position, and interior plastic rattles) to describe my ‘05 Pontiac GTO, which has a few suspension mods to tighten things up. They’re different cars, but they overlap in terms of driver experience. Truly analog GT cars for that 6 am jaunt through the Ohio back roads!

tsy1987 > Speed 11/13/2015 at 19:40

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It’s definitely recognizable! lol It’s definitely cool in that it sounds different, but as I said before... I’m on the fence about it... lol

Andrew Fails > Charley V 11/13/2015 at 19:41

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This was on Blue River Rd, just north of 435.

prizrak > I hoon, therefore I am 11/13/2015 at 20:05

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I was about to ask how it compares to the 350 in that respect. I always thought the position to be a little high for a sports car, like I can’t have the steering wheel at my chest a la Ferrari/Lambo or F1 car but then I’m on a somewhat tall side for a Japanese car (6’)

Dr_Watson > AM3R shamefully returns 11/13/2015 at 20:14

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It annoyed the shit out of me (because I’d been doing my own blips for a decade). But when I finally gave in and had faith in it as a tool to go faster it works incredibly well. It’s tough to hand over some control to the computer but just like a dual clutch, I have no doubt it’s faster being able put all your foot resuorces into managing the brake.

So I don’t hate it as far as systems go... But just like TCS it needs an off button (a’la C7).

Gomer > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 20:16

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The VQ series Nissan engines have always been impressive. They are one of the few V6 engines that truly have character. They’re strong, reliable, and sound unique. I had a VQ in my 2007 G35 sedan. Peach of an engine, really enjoyed it, and that’s with my previous 2 cars being an LS6 and an EJ20.

LVomend > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 20:51

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the 370z is more of a tokyo drift car than a need for speed one

jginnane > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 20:57

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I traded my 2009 370Z for a Mazda CX5 last year, but had the most amazing five years with that car ever.

What you get: an Infiniti G37 engine without the extra 1,000 pounds, and the extra $5K pricetag for a useless back seat. Minimal soundproofing, because they need to differentiate the Z from the “sophisticated” Infiniti. OEM summer treads that are OK, but you’ll wisely change to UHPAS like Conti DWS rubber at about 18K mileage. Absolutely terrible, lousy, no-good rear-quarter viewing. A carbon-fiber driveshaft that’s so good no one ever talks about it. Aluminum body panels.

Anyone who calls the 3.7L V6 utilitarian or trucklike has never been on the Garden State Parkway trying to clear a clog of Toyotas travelling 5 abreast. Spot an opening, touch the throttle — suddenly they’re WAY back in your rearview. And it’s time to make sure your radar detector didn’t come unplugged, because you definitely need it with this car.

360ad > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 20:59

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Why would you need to heel-toe downshift? The 370Z blips the throttle for you.

55_mercury > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 21:27

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The design is fucking old looking.

My bird IS the word > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 21:40

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These cars are exactly what enthusiasts like, but arent buying right now. I love the z line, but they are always missing a special something. I guess I have always been a sucker for so called “useless” backseats. both cars of this body type I’ve bought (porsche 944, 79 trans am) had the backseats everyone always bitches about, until they sit in them for longer than 30 seconds. the z has been 2+2 before but they always stretch the car and ruin the look. Similar cars in this price range (stang, camaro, challenger, brz) are all 2+2, and with the exception of the brz, are a better power value. Strangely (yea right) all these sell alot better in the states than the 370 is.

Inline6 > 472CID 11/13/2015 at 22:07

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Agree 350z was fantastic this was a big step backwards.

BigJayDogg3 > Dr_Watson 11/13/2015 at 22:17

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Fairly certain it has one right next to the shifter. Maybe it was an addition to model years after yours?

Z31 Turbo > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 22:19

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I love the 370z, it is a great car! My mother owns a 2011 roadster automatic and honestly, I think I like the automatic more. It really gives the motor better manners and doesn’t feel as thrashy.

My question though is, when is nissan going to announce the next generation Z?? I can’t believe they’ll continue the 370z, and the 2017 models will be coming out before we know it! I’d think they at least give us a peek by now...

Big Bubba Ray > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 22:23

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Damn, I was hoping you’d be closer to STL! If you’re ever in the area, let me know. I know some of the best roads outside of St. Louis and if my 240Z is ready to go, I’d love for you to drive it and do a write up about it/the roads.

killerhurtalot4 > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 22:40

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Seriously... I don’t understand people who buy the Nismo version of this car... 42k for this car is way too much for what it offers.

I get the price difference between a Mustang and a Mustang gt for that 40k+ price tag, but I’ll never get spending 40k+ for this car.

ICantStandNewJalopnik > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 22:44

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Great write-up. Thanks for that.

Now, I owned one of these for 2 years. It was stock, with the Sport package and a manual.

This car was really hard to live with at 6 feet tall. You’d have to crank your neck getting into it, the suspension was rough and there was no room to put anything in the back.

Once you were in, it fit like a glove around you, but you couldn’t see out, had a tough time with ingress and egress, but there are times where I wonder if I should’ve kept the Z over my Focus ST. I usually am faster at my home track than a Z in the ST, but I don’t know why.

I always will make sure I don’t buy another car I couldn’t live with like the Z. It was a love/hate relationship.

killerhurtalot4 > Lekker 11/13/2015 at 22:51

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That’s because e92 was bloated...

The real good cars were the 1 series e82 cars.

Dr_Watson > BigJayDogg3 11/13/2015 at 23:00

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Would have been a ‘13 or ‘14. First year of the feature. If they added one later it would certainly be a good thing.

VS > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 23:11

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funny thing is Matt Farah just did a review on modded 350Z and said the pedals were perfect for heel and toe, i don’t think they have much different pedals

maroli > Andrew Fails 11/13/2015 at 23:19

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Many moons ago, i owned a modded 350z. That car is actually probably a better balanced car stock than the 370z. But they’re both so well proportioned. The 350z looked futuristic when it came out, and looks classic now. Not really sure how that transition happened.

LaGlock > 472CID 11/13/2015 at 23:22

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I have many times. I too think the car is very sexy. I especially think the 2015 NISMO is the sexiest Z design ever. People wearing nostalgia goggles will say it’s the S30. I agree that there are a lot of beautiful S30s but, most of them are modified. Stock, the S30 isn’t that special to look at. It’s a nice, clean design but, it doesn’t make me want to lay in bed with it. Also, the later S30s look a little goofy with the bigger government spec bumpers.

emanresu > Big Bubba Ray 11/13/2015 at 23:48

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What are these roads you boast of???

Vic788 > Andrew Fails 11/14/2015 at 00:04

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Nissan really put this car into a marketing cluster F, 370z great car out of the box but pricing in its Matrix market just really put it at a disadvantages and Sports car market has really changed alot.

I hoon, therefore I am > prizrak 11/14/2015 at 00:15

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Admittedly, the Z cars are nearly all of of my experience behind the wheel of sports cars. But I love how they sit.

Big Bubba Ray > emanresu 11/14/2015 at 00:42

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Haha the roads are right by St. Albans and Chesterfield, MO. If you’re from the area I’m sure you’ve heard of Wild Horse Creek Rd. That road is one of my favorites.

Wild Horse Creek also has a bunch of attached, single lane roads that are an absolute riot to drive. You’ve really got to know where they are to find the best ones. If you need some good roads, let me know and I’ll send you a map!

Andrew Fails > VS 11/14/2015 at 00:42

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Farah’s feet are also way larger than mine, as the man has me beat by like a hundred or more pounds and six inches. I have tiny girl feet.

Foo2rama > AAsearles 11/14/2015 at 00:55

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Muscle car vs sports car.... I’ve driven both the GTO is still a more straight lien car with more urgency in a straight line plus gobs of low end torque. The 370 builds more power in the mid range, and feels lighter and more point-able.

gergey - Wishes vette was Datsun > Andrew Fails 11/14/2015 at 01:23

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Compared to how the back end tapers on a 350Z, the 370 has always seemed slightly... bulbous to me.

Andrew Fails > Big Bubba Ray 11/14/2015 at 01:56

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If you can get a few buddies to also give up their cars, I can make a day trip of it. Shoot me an email at afails@rightfootdown.com

TylerJ > AAsearles 11/14/2015 at 01:57

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And it has rear seats!

I think?

Andrew Fails > Dr_Watson 11/14/2015 at 01:59

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Yeah, I left it turned off, just to get a feel for the car without additional computers. I’ve used auto-revmatch in a Stingray before, and it worked...but just made me feel dirty.

Drew > ZoopZoopLoops 11/14/2015 at 09:40

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I do believe the 370Z is a polarizing love it or hate it car. I do believe it is a very good car. I had a 2010 touring edition and it was very good. It replaced my 2003 G35 coupe (another excellent car). I took a Lotus to replace the 370Z.

StuntmanDan > ZoopZoopLoops 11/14/2015 at 13:13

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I spent a lot of time behind the wheel of my brother’s 370Z, and it just didn’t excite me. On dry pavement in LA with newish tires the back end always wanted to get squirmy, then the nannies would stop it abruptly. I loved the engine, but the car wasn’t as responsive as I would expect it to be. It felt very much like it was trying to be a GT car, but with a so-so sound system, no Bluetooth, and a very bumpy ride. I can’t say for sure what it needs, but in stock form it feels like an awkward compromise between a GT car and a small sports car.

JTF > Andrew Fails 11/14/2015 at 14:17

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I really like mine. It is a great all around sports car. Plenty quick in the corners. Quick enough that I put 1.5 cars from a roll on a stock 2012 335 with a 180lb passenger in my car. So plenty fast enough for normal everyday driving.

With a few choice mods I think it looks and drives great. Intake, exhaust, mild drop, light weight wheels, good tires and some choice suspension components and this car really comes alive, and is also more pleasant for cruising. I added a custom stereo and sound deadening throughout, the weight gained was worth the noise reduction (and no more rattles). Car is now whisper quiet on the right tarmac and not bad on Texas cement highways. A few choice carbon fiber bits so the exterior is all black and white and it looks great to me and gets compliments all the time.

I really do enjoy it every day. Have fun switching off traction control and pushing out the tail a bit when appropriate. And spirited street driving is fun even below the speed limit. It does put a smile on my face every time I’m behind the wheel.

That said I don’t LOVE it. It’s not a car where I’ve said “I won’t ever sell this.” And I’m on the fence on keeping it when I splurge in 2 years on something for my 40th birthday.

But, with the prices of ones like mine (09 Base + Sport with 40K miles) in the high teens low $20s this car is a great deal. Especially for people like me who think the Mustang/Camaro just “feels” to big when sitting in it — that something smaller and tighter around you gives a better every day driving experience despite being slower at stoplights or on the track.

Pic from 1-2 years ago, without the CF door handles or side sills.

Recent iphone pic showing stance with just H&R springs.

MTY19855 > ZoopZoopLoops 11/14/2015 at 14:28

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The twenty thousand dollar chasm between the 370Z and the Cayman kind of eliminates any chance of it feeling like a Japanese Porsche.

Mike > Dr_Watson 11/14/2015 at 14:58

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The 370Z has had rev matching in the manual transmission since it first debuted in 2009 and was the first car to ever have it

ArtistAtLarge > VW-Guy-R32 11/14/2015 at 15:11

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I have a very stiff Mazda like that. Factory stock. Handles great (for what it is), very civilized on the Interstates and the like, but on average to sketchy roads and under hard power? Holy sheet! It’s a paint mixer! You never feel out of control, but forget about seeing anything in your rear-view mirror.

PJ > Andrew Fails 11/14/2015 at 16:12

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I test-drove one of these as a mere formality as it had seemed to be the perfect goldilocks car for me: more power than an S2000, less expensive than a Vette/Cayman/etc.

“Every throttle input seems that much more visceral. When you blip the gas to rev-match your downshifts, the Nissan’s revs are whipcrack-fast at leaping skyward. Under hard acceleration, there is an urgency that vibrates through the controls that is hard to capture with turbocharging” - definitely have to disagree here. I was underwhelmed at throttle response, and when I mashed the throttle, while I saw the speedo gaining decently, the gears felt long and the whole experience felt lifeless.

I had C6s on the edge of my radar but not really seriously interested, but when I brought the Z back, the salesman told me to test-drive a stock C5 Z06. I told him no thanks, not interested in the Chevy Cavalier interior of the C5, but he pushed it on me, and I had driven 30 minutes to get to this dealer, so figured why not?

While gears are at least as long, it felt night-and-day on throttle response and seemed a different world in smile-inducing power than the 370Z. Instantly, any desire I had for the Nissan was 100% gone and I saved up a bit more and got a C6 base.

Andrew Fails > PJ 11/14/2015 at 16:34

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C6 is a better car all around, I concur. But this Z was modified with bolt-ons, tune, etc, so I probably had a different experience than you.

PJ > Andrew Fails 11/14/2015 at 16:42

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Sure, yeah. Really wish stock, the experience would have been more similar to yours.

User24 > Andrew Fails 11/14/2015 at 16:43

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For some reason, 6 cylinders have never excited me.

I consider several factors: looks, chassis design, weight, weight distribution, sound, performance, engine, character, cost of tires/maint.

Is it a dedicated chassis, or shared with sedans? Does the engine have a good sound, not only on the gas or redline, but also at idle? Etc.

370z drivers always have to gun the throttle in parking lots, otherwise the exhaust doesn’t make that characteristic moo-ing sound. There is no sound to speak of when at idle rpms, sitting at a stoplight. I would never commute in a vehicle without such needed engine character.

I have only ever owned for commuting, 3,000-3,100 lb sports cars (GT or coupe) with a 13B-MSP rotary or LS7 Chevy engine, and 375 lb air cooled v-twin motorcycles in Ducati 2v configuration. If I had more money, I would have liked to experience lighter vehicles, such as the 4C/Atom 3/Mono, but that’s dreaming. For daily commuting, cost of tires, 0-60 performance, ease of maintenance, sound, involvement, nothing hits all my criteria like a naked Duc.

A Nissan Z35, with a turbo 4 boxer from Subaru with factory stock UEL headers... I would be very tempted. Even VQ fans would forget the VQ, that’s the ultimate fan boy engine in the ultimate fan boy chassis.

ThatbastardKurtis > Andrew Fails 11/14/2015 at 19:02

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I wonder will the next Z get a twin turbo V6 or will it get a version of the supposed upcoming Mercedes turbo 2.9 liter inline 6?

TheDivaDanielle > Doug Nash 11/14/2015 at 20:00

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I’ve been really thinking about picking one up used for under 14k for a new “DD” and am floored that these are CHEAPER used than their 370Z counterparts by a huge amount.

ocbrad1 used to be iamhoff but is now just wandering around > Andrew Fails 11/15/2015 at 01:44

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Great article. I’ve thought about picking up a 370 as a weekend toy, and it sounds like it might fit the bill. Side note, those wheels look absolutely perfect on that silver 370!

amaROenuZ > Andrew Fails 11/15/2015 at 12:23

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The 350 and 370 don’t get enough love. They feel to me like excellent introduction cars to the world of performance automobiles. Good tolerances, enough horsepower to be fun without being difficult to handle, decent balance. They’re like an F-body with some genuine build quality.

Doug Nash > TheDivaDanielle 11/15/2015 at 13:36

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So am I!!! I think what it is, is that there are SO many more G-series sedans and coupes on the road, than there are Z-cars, that it affects the used prices.

If you ever do look further into a used G37, I would suggest testing both the 7AT and 6MT to see what you like best. The 7AT is not anywhere near as sorted as the ZF 8AT which is in almost every other sport sedan in the world these days.

prizrak > I hoon, therefore I am 11/15/2015 at 18:04

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I do like the sitting position, just wish it was a little more cocooned in

Big Bubba Ray > emanresu 11/15/2015 at 23:41

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Sorry I’m so late in responding but here goes!

If you’re from around St. Louis I’m sure you’ve heard of Wild Horse Creek Road right outside Chesterfield, MO. I’ll usually start my drive right in the Chesterfield Valley after I leave work because I work out there. I take some back roads from the Valley to Wild Horse Creek then cruise Highway T around St. Albans out to Labadie, MO and then hop on Melrose (I think that’s the name) after blasting T for a while. They’re some insanely fun, tight roads to drive. Really secluded and perfect for driving. No police (knock on wood) and you can literally drive the speed limit and have a killer time because the roads are that much fun.

t0ast > Andrew Fails 11/16/2015 at 09:36

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Huh, not sure how I managed to avoid driving that road in spite of working just minutes away. Seems I’ll have to go fix that.

Not Entirely Sure > Andrew Fails 11/16/2015 at 10:11

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A 370Z is the most confusing car that I’ve ever driven, and I own one now. I should say that I daily it, and I have a commute that isn’t the worst, but certainly doesn’t do me any favors. About 15 minutes of ~10MPH traffic, and then another 30-45 of normal driving. During the 15 minutes of traffic, I’d rather have a seat in ANY other car. Trying to drive a 330+ HP RWD monster with a clutch the size of Montana, in stop and go traffic, on hills, with a Mercedes minivan so far up your ass that you can read the name on the soccer mom’s starbucks cup, is the actual earthly representation of hell. But when you get it on the open road, it is brutally and un-apologetically fun. There’s one particular section of highway that jams up near an exit, and then clears up, seemingly without reason. Some mornings it’s as if the cars in front of you are plucked up to the sky, rapture style, for being good little econo-boxes and now the road is yours to devour. These are the mornings I find myself looking at the speedo to find that I’m well into lose-your-license territory, and need to calm the hell down before I’m splitting a cell with Juan.

This car is seriously fun, although admittedly hamfisted. It’s like a bull in a china shop. It is extremely powerful, and commands that you respect that. I have to admit that I got too comfortable, and tried to drive above my skill level, and was promptly reminded to calm the fuck down. I disrespected the car, and I was fortunate that I spent the rest of that day’s commute home in my parent’s car, rather than a body bag.

This car, by today’s standards, is certainly not a monster. Things like the Hellcat make the Z look like a Honda Fit. But it does have enough power to pin you to your seat. It does handle well enough to make you giggle as you mock the speed limit sign on the exit ramp. All of these things, plus the obvious Jalop-friendly layout should make it the dollar for dollar value to end all dollar for dollar values. But it just falls short somewhere, and I’m not sure where. I’ve owned my Z for about 3 months now, and I’ve thought quite a few times about getting rid of it and I just can’t put my finger on why.

One-Wheel-Peel > Opposite Locksmith 11/16/2015 at 10:36

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All you gotta do is drop the body on the frame backwards, right?

Andrew Fails > t0ast 11/16/2015 at 11:49

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What do you drive? I'm always looking for new cars to review. Feel free to hit me up at afails@rightfootdown.com

Pengwynn > Speed 11/16/2015 at 12:09

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Sorry, working in CAD too. Base model starts at 30K here, Touring is 40K, Touring Sport is 44K, Nismo is 48K. By comparison an FRS is 27K

Koopa Troopa > StuntmanDan 11/16/2015 at 13:46

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Was your brother’s a sports package? It certainly didn’t include the touring package if it has no bluetooth. The touring package would help it feel a little more of a GT car.

Koopa Troopa > jepawa 11/16/2015 at 13:52

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Oh yeah, the Mustang pretty much feels like you’re driving a sedan and I thought about a Porsche, but didn’t want to be a Porsche guy.

If you want a true sports car, your options are limited these days...

Raymundo > Andrew Fails 11/16/2015 at 14:10

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It took my a while to get warmed up to that video style, but it almost works. It’s different, there’s an interesting direction, but it’s lacking something. Maybe remastering the vocal track to provide more warmth in the sound would do the trick. But then I guess you could say the vocal track is perfectly imperfect, like the exhaust note of the 370Z with it’s lack of a baritone rumble. :P