Used Nissan 370Z Review (2009-2020) MK1
Independent review by Peter Hayward from Driving Force
4-minute read
Overview
- Fun to drive
- Sporty looks
- Excellent level of equipment
- Engines are thirsty
- Boot space is below average
- High emissions
What's the Nissan 370Z like?
Just imagine a bright summer's day and a long drive in a marvellous coupé with a glorious soundtrack.
Air conditioning - who needs it? You have the windows wide open, so you can revel in the delicious burble and rising wail of a superb V6 engine as it blasts you through the hinterland like a jet on afterburners.
That's the kind of drive you can have in a wonderfully focussed sporting car like the Nissan 370Z or its earlier 350Z stablemate.
I suppose in these days of greener cars and lower emissions, it's a bit of an anachronism. But while it's old-fashioned, thirsty, and hairy chested to drive, there's something really special about getting behind the wheel.
The only thing that could make it better would be a soft top with the roof down - and that's included in the range too.
Every straight piece of road becomes safe overtaking country, and every bend and corner show off its excellent handling and sublime road-holding.
Engines
The 370Z took over from the 350Z in 2009, with extra power from a larger 3.7-litre V6 engine producing 328bhp, more built-in safety, and all the same character.
The 0 to 60mph times are excellent - around 5.1 seconds for the 6-speed manual and around 5.4 seconds for the 7-speed automatic. This last is a good choice because the clutch in the manual models is heavy and the gear change notchy.
The theoretical top speed is 155mph, economy is a best of 23mpg out in the road and emissions are very high at 247g/kg.
But the sublime engine note gives an adrenaline rush all its own, and the low slung driving position makes it feel more sporting than later offerings from the Germans and Britons.
Driving Experience
It has all the modern safety aids and advanced systems like a limited slip differential and very good stability control, and although it competes with the likes of the Porsche Cayman or smaller BMW coupés, it's far more reasonable to buy used.
At cruising speeds, all are quiet and refined, but wind that delicious V6 up towards the heady red line and the whole car comes alive.
Road-holding and handling are brilliant, with tenacious grip and a beautifully nimble feel.
Peter Hayward
If you avoid the range topping Nismo, the ride is reasonably comfortable over long hauls, making it a true grand tourer.
Interior and Equipment
Inside, it's a true 2-seater but has plenty of space for those two and excellent seat adjustment for the driver.
There isn’t a great deal of luggage space, so you have to travel light, but even in the cheapest models, equipment is excellent.
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The Nissan 370Z is a sports car that offers fantastic levels of equipment, eye-catching looks, and a driving experience that's hard to beat. With a range of powerful engines and an excellent level of equipment, the 370Z is an excellent used car buy.
