ON THE ROAD: NISSAN 370 Z COUPE

Cheap Thrills Again?

Definitely on the “thrills” but not so much on cheap anymore. The 370 Z is obviously more expensive than the 350 Z it replaced, but still represents good value for the buck when compared to its direct rivals.

Break It Down Please.

Let’s go straight to the heart of the matter, which is the new 3.7-litre V6 engine making 245kW. I had hoped Nissan would install a smaller, lighter turbo unit for this car but they chose to stay natural. Nevertheless it’s a lot of electricity passing through the rear axle, but as always, we are based in Johannesburg where up to 17% of that Eskom power can be lost through thinner high-altitude air.

Translating To?

Translating to a 0 – 100km/h time of only 6.3 seconds, which is this close to a MINI John Cooper Works. Down at the coast I’m told you can get as little as 5.7 seconds out of the 370 Z, so 0.6 seconds evaporates up here. Besides that this car, which I started calling “the dancer” after one week’s cajoling, is a great waltz partner. Place it correctly on the tarmac, rev it up, pluck it into first gear and drop the clutch, and you’ll be lucky not to see rear tyre smoke. Oversteer can be expected of course, but bringing it back into line is relatively drama-less. Once on the warpath it keeps a solid stance. A Z trait is exceptional handling, and so thanks to things like McPherson struts, the 370 Z keeps that tradition alive.

Did You Like The Interior?

To a certain extent yes. Lots of premium materials are used but some are a little too plasticky, like the cubby hole cover for example. Steering wheel buttons are also a little on the el cheapo side, cementing the fact that these are the same buttons found in lesser Nissans. But it all works fine and I suppose that’s all you can ask for. I liked the front-loading 6CD changer, a concept started in the East and now used by a lot of Western automakers as well. Its BOSE sound system speakers could use some more clarity though; too much bass distortion at higher volumes.

Were You Comfortable?

The drive is comfortable, depending on who’s asking. “Softer” customers might find it a little too sporty but those who like their cars slightly sprung will enjoy the interior. Make sure you’re not over 1.8m tall either as this could further compromise your driving fun. Both leather seats (it’s only a two-seater remember) are electronically adjustable for individual solace. The gear lever is leather-covered and has a bubbly, short-shift action. Although new in all senses, the 370 Z reeked of 350 Z interior styling, like the orange background lighting, storage spaces, some knobs and even the engine note.

Can It Go On A Holiday?

If your definition of holiday does not involve heavy gravel, off-road excursions and more than two people, then yes. Although boot space is increased and takes two bags easily, don’t push it by carrying your whole wardrobe.

Is The Modern Sequel Worth It?

Pretty good, considering it’s up against the monumental mental leap made by the 350 Z from the ZX and other Z cars of yesteryears. Plus its key German enemies still hold the premium crown, and with it potential buyers’ attention.

QUICK STATS

NISSAN 370 Z COUPÉ

ENGINE: 3.7-litre V6 (3696 cc)

POWER: 245kW at 7000rpm; 363Nm at 5200rpm

0 – 100KM/H: 6.3 seconds

GEARBOX: 6-speed manual

TOP SPEED: 250km/h

FUEL AVERAGE: 11.8 l/100km

FUEL RANGE: 610km (combined)

CO2 e: 292 g/km

PRICE STANDARD: R510 500

NATURAL RIVALS: Audi TT S, BMW Z4 sDrive35i, Mercedes-Benz SLK 350

*PRICE RIVALS: Alfa Romeo Brera 3.2 V6, Audi A5 3.0 TDI, BMW 135i Convertible, HUMMER V8, Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 DiD GLK LWB, Volkswagen T5 Caravelle, Volvo C70 T5.

BABE-MAGNETIC FACTOR: Very High

*A price rival falls within R20 000 or so of the subject’s price on either side of its price spectrum for cars over R350 000, R10 000 for cars of between R250 000 and R350 000 and R5 000 for cars below R250 000.