Another classic that revives. The Nissan 350 Z is the “reincarnation” of the popular Datsun Z line. It has 280 horsepower and all the spirit of a sportsman.
The 350 Z has features appreciated by any sports car enthusiast. The sound of the engine is one of them. Stepping on your accelerator past 3,000 rpm is a delight for your ears. And always responds by pushing forward, to any regime of revolutions.
Another interesting detail is the firmness of the suspension, although it can sometimes be a bit harsh, it is very suitable for the performance of a sports car. In this case I should say that this suspension is important for reactions when accelerating and doubling. Because objectively the final speed is one of the weak points of 350 Z.
It awakens the desire to drive this coupe its agile six-speed manual gearbox. Allows rapid acceleration. Although it brings us to a sad reality: the final speed comes pretty fast. The firm handling and good maneuverability in demanding curves are very positive. Not so in urban management, where reactions can be somewhat slow. The braking capacity, assisted by ABS, is also worth noting. All models bring standard stability control system.
The suspension stiffness does not feel too much on the steering wheel, which is worth noting that it could bring adjustment option to improve the driving posture. The ratio of the steering wheel to the shift lever location is not comfortable.
The design of the body is quite minimalist. There is no unnecessary ornament or exaggerated moldings. A very nice smooth surface bonnet. The front air inlet for the radiator is simply a horizontal rectangle trimmed from a panch front and uniform. Everything on the body of this new Nissan is very harmonious. The only curious detail would be the door handle. The rest is impeccable, a conservative but very neat styling work.
The interior is also measured in details and ornaments. It is two-seater but behind the seats there are two spaces to carry luggage, complementing well the small trunk of 235 dm3 capacity. The interior has as an option, for some extra money, to change parts of the upholstery of the seats with orange leather.
An interesting detail to mention in relation to the present technology, is that the rear-view mirrors have a system to prevent fogging as well as the thermal window on the rear windows. Xenon headlights are present as base equipment as well as cruise control and telephone system. An interesting option is the 18 inch aluminum wheels that weigh almost 4 kilos less than the standard ones.
In Europe, the same 350 Z presents changes from the American version. A rear air diffuser and spoiler provide high speed manoeuvring safety. At the front some differences in air intake improve the aerodynamic coefficient, up to 0.29. Mechanics also have optimizations, especially in transmission. Its price is around 41,000 euros. And it is a very good price when compared to direct rivals like the Mazda RX-8 and the Audi TT.
The first Datsun Z line was marketed in 1970. The 240 Z model had a 2,400 cm3 engine that had about 150 HP. Its main attraction was its price, much lower than any other sports car of the time.
As the years passed, the engine grew, as did its performance. The 260 Z and 280 Z models also changed the body size, considerably large for a 2 + 2 two-seater coupe.
With the arrival of the 1980s came a completely new body for the model 280
© Adrián Blanco 2005 — Prohibited the total or partial reproduction of text and/or images without explicit written consent of the author. —