2007 Nissan 350Z

For 2007, the Nissan 350Z offers a new 3.5-litre V6 engine; although it’s the same displacement as the 2006 model, it offers 306 hp and 268 lb-ft of torque, to the previous 300 hp and 260 lb-ft, and with slightly better fuel mileage figures. The 350Z also receives exterior and interior styling enhancements.

The 350Z is available in coupe or roadster configuration; all use the 3.5-litre and are available with a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. Pricing is the same for both transmissions. The 350Z uses Nissan’s FM (front mid-ship) platform, which positions the engine behind the front axle for a 53/47 front-to-rear weight balance.

Features on the coupe (now called the Grand Touring Coupe) include 18-inch front and 19-inch rear alloy wheels, Brembo brakes, Xenon headlamps, rear deck lid spoiler, heated mirrors, variable intermittent wipers, intermittent rear wiper, tire pressure monitoring system, Bluetooth hands-free telephone system, automatic climate control, power windows, power locks with keyless entry, garage door opener, cruise control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated leather seats with eight-way driver and four-way passenger power adjustment, leather-wrapped wheel, six-CD stereo, side and curtain airbags, engine immobilizer, anti-theft system, traction control and stability control.

The roadster has similar convenience features, but does not have a rear wiper, Bluetooth or curtain airbags, and has four 18-inch wheels, power-operated top with heated glass rear window, rollover protection system and air deflector. Items that are standard on the coupe but part of an optional GT package on the roadster include stability control, Brembo brakes, and rear underbody diffusers.

Both models can be optioned with a navigation system.

The 350Z remains a marvellously styled, fun-to-drive two-passenger model that can take the twisties at high speed and yet has enough manners to behave itself in city traffic. The 2007’s extra horsepower is enhanced with a throatier exhaust note that sounds great, without droning or booming. The uncluttered cockpit puts everything at the driver’s fingertips; there’s a surprising amount of passenger space, and just enough luggage room for a weekend jaunt.