Used Car Review: Nissan 350Z

This fifth generation of “Z” sports cars was even deemed the perfect sports car for the everyman. While the 350Z was only produced from 2003-2008, due to its popularity, there are a number of great deals on this vehicle in the used car market.

Advantages of the Used Nissan 350Z

At its debut, the Nissan 350Z brought back the company’s spirit of fun and performance.  In a sea of unattainable sports cars, there were several unique aspects that made the 350Z one-of-a-kind. The Nissan 350Z brought along the following features:

Affordable price with the thrill of a sports car: The compact dimensions and muscular engine came at a price tag many buyers could actually afford. 

The need for speed: Used Nissan 350Z models feature a V6 that produced 287-hp and 274 lb.-ft. of torque 

The power of a sports car: The Nissan 350Z has all its power sent to the rear wheels through either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.

Used Nissan 350Z Model Years

After halting production of their Z-series line of cars for a number of years, Nissan made a major impact when it reintroduced the 350Z in 2003. This two-passenger sports car impressed car buyers with its sleek design, superior driving performance, and affordable price. This model went through several years of upgrades until it was replaced by the 370Z in 2009.

Nissan 350Z Redesigns

The Nissan 350Z coupe went several years without any major changes or upgrades. However, in 2005 the model did introduce a 35th-anniversary edition. This specific model produced 300-hp and came in several new colors. Some of the other notable changes to the Nissan 350Z included:

• 2007 – Most notably in ’07, the Nissan 350Z offered an updated V6 with a potent 306-hp. This year also introduced the coupe-only Nismo 350Z. This model included a variety of performance-enhancing upgrades while dropping some of the luxuries.
• 2006 – Keeping the anniversary edition’s 300-hp V6, this year also introduced some mild style changes, speed-sensitive steering, larger breaks, a higher quality interior, and more standard features.
• 2005 – The release of the 35th-anniversary edition in 2005 allowed consumers to purchase a Nissan 350Z coupe in three limited edition colors: Ultra Yellow, Super Black, and Silverstone.

 What the Critics Say about Nissan 350Z

Having trouble deciding if a used Nissan 350Z is right for you? Find out what some of the critics had to say about this coupe model:

• Consumer Reports 2011 Test score: 86/100
• JD Power and Associates 2008 Predicted reliability score: 3/5
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2008 average overall crash rating: 4.5/5