2009 Nissan 370Z – Style Meets Functionality
On the 30th of December 2008, Nissan announced pricing for its 2009 370Z sports car, which debuted in November at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Starting at $29,930, the 370Z Coupe is about $1,500 more expensive than the 350Z it replaces. The base model comes with a 6-speed manual, while upgrading to a 7-speed automatic brings the total to $31,230.
Nissan knows as well as anyone the dangers in redesigning a popular car. Through the 1990s, it “improved” its Z-car until the bloated 300ZX carried virtually none of the charm (not to mention the sales volume) of the original 240Z. Nissan returned the line to its former glory with the 350Z, and has been rewarded with a brilliantly successful six-year run. And with the 2009 370Z, which is making its debut this week at the Los Angeles auto show, it has proved it has finally learned how to build on success.
The first thing you notice when looking at the new Z is the headlights. They’re an odd “V” shape, which creates a “squinting” effect. But the face is now more distinctive than before. Also adding spice to the new-look Z are “fangs.” These body-colored dividers are incorporated inside the grille to separate the air going to the radiator and the brake vents.
The overall shape and profile of the new Z will remain relatively unchanged. However, it will be slightly smaller than the current car, measuring roughly 163 in. from bumper to bumper, about 6.5 in. shorter than today’s 350Z. Interior space will stay the same, but the car will weigh some 200 lb. less, tipping the scales at about 3010 lb.
What this means is the new Z will be a rocket. A reliable source in Japan has told us it will be powered by a 3.7-liter V-6, the same engine used in the Infiniti G37 coupe, with output bumped to 350 bhp at 6500 rpm and torque to about 280 lb.-ft. at 4500. This new power-to-weight ratio for the “370Z” will allow the car to reach 60 mph in less than 5.0 seconds, and should give the Porsche Cayman S a run for its money around any racetrack.
More Resources On Nissan 370Z:
Cars Automotive: Random Car Articles
Left Lane News Nissan 370Z Pricing