2008 Nissan 350Z

2008 Nissan 350Z Pictures

MSRP:: $27,980 - $40,330
Invoice:: $26,095 - $37,224

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Overview:

The "new" Z was introduced to overall styling and performance acclaim in 2004 and received an engine upgrade in 2007 with minor hood resculpting - a slight center bulge reminiscent of the 240Z. For 2008, it sees few changes.

In 2007, Nissan revised 80% of its highly acclaimed VQ 3.5-liter V6 (shared with the Infiniti G35 sedan). A higher block deck height resulted in longer connecting rods and a redesigned front-strut-tower brace, thus the hood bulge. In addition to that, it received a new dual-intake system, revised cylinder head, revamped variable valve timing, higher compression, and a few other changes.

While the additional 6 hp (the engine now produces 306 hp with the manual transmission) may not seem worth it, the more immediate improvement is an increase in the broader range of usable torque. Nissan has renamed the engine the VQ35HR, with HR standing for "high-revving," as the redline for the manual-transmission engine increased by 500 rpm to 7,500. Along with a performance increase, these engine tweaks have also improved gas mileage by 1 to 2 mpg for both manual and automatic transmissions; EPA estimates are 20/27 mpg. 0-60 comes up in 5.2 seconds with the manual 6-speed transmission; a 5-speed automatic is optional.

Although taut, the suspension maintains control in all conditions and is easy to correct if a driver gets too enthusiastic. Based on Nissan's Front Midship chassis, shared with the Infiniti G35, the V6's engine mass rests aft of the front-axle centerline (two cylinders sit forward of the front axle and four aft of it), giving the Z close-to-perfect balance. Cornering grip is high and provides plenty of smiles per mile in the twisties. Steering is precise and well-balanced.

The comfortable and intelligent interior is well laid out. Controls are within easy reach and intuitive. As one reviewer put it, you won't find "the unfortunate kudzu of over-elaborate techo-excess" that plagues BMW, Lexus, and other makers. And this is very much in keeping with Nissan's original intent for its Z cars.

In addition to coupe and roadster versions, the 350Z is available in a new limited-production Nismo high-performance edition. Capable of 0-60 in 5.1 seconds, the Nismo has larger Brembo brakes and a tuned suspension, as it's basically the new factory "track" Z. More-aggressive front, rear, and side aerodynamics are topped off with a large rear decklid spoiler.

Overall, few cars available below $30k can provide the same level of entertainment as the 350Z. (less) (more)

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History of the Nissan 350Z

[Edit] The release of the Nissan 350Z in 2002 marked the launch of the fifth generation of Nissan's popular Z-car series. Z-cars are noted for their good looks and power while still remaining affordable.

The previous Z-car run had ended in 1996, so for many years Nissan had no sports car in its lineup. The 350Z was an important part in Nissan's reemergence from near-bankruptcy, signaling a renewed interest in producing performance cars and not just boring sedans.

The 350Z's styling is notably different from its predecessors, featuring a more rounded look. Nissan's tuning division, Nismo, produced a performance model with a longer nose that harkens back to the Z's of the past. It is available in several trims and as a convertible.

The 350Z's competitors are the Mazda RX-8 and the Mitsubishi Eclipse.

Discussion Board

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Hatchback fails to stay open.

3 posts. Created by yuriavila. Last post on Apr 27, 2008 at 5:31:30 PM

Hatch is getting very difficult with remote & no longer can open manually.

1 posts. Created by NancyG. Last post on Jan 29, 2008 at 5:35:18 PM

how much for a 30K check up?

3 posts. Created by tlynch41. Last post on Dec 8, 2007 at 5:23:11 PM

Other Nissan 350Zs

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