I'm a big Nissan fan, all Japanese cars actually (and films, and food, but that's another story). Over the years I've owned eight Nissans and I was just starting to think that they were beginning to get a bit boring, when along came the 350Z and reminded me that Nissan can make some really exciting motors.
The 350Z is a proper sports coupe and it can really perform. I mean for the price you pay it's probably the best value sports car going. Its 280bhp v6 is really something, I could hardly believe the price tag. Of course the sports-car credentials are matched by a gas-guzzling sports-car tendency and a group 20 insurance premium! But she's worth it.
I know that the Mazda RX-8 probably rules the roost when it comes to budget sports-cars but the Nissan 350Z is, in my opinion, the better car. It's gorgeous looking and really tears up the track. It handles beautifully and is a real testament to Japanese engineering,
The thing that makes this stand out from the crowd (much like my 370Z I've currently got) is the incredible value for money. You get performance that you just can't buy anywhere else for the same money and now that this car has a younger brother, you'll probably be able to pick one up at an even better price. The performance is the thing that sells this car, it has bags of character and anywhere you take it, its bound to put a smile on your face, it really is a great drive. A friend of mine has a TT and he drove the 350Z and commented on how much lighter it feels and hows it is a much easier drive because its so light in comparison. Grip, handling and body control are simply the best you can get for this price.
The cabin is quite big and airy and as with the 370Z, you're pretty much lying down on the floor meaning getting in and out is a rather undignified process but that's a sacrifice you'll be willing to make. It comes well equipped and although without rear seats, I found that the boot has enough space to manage with luggage for a short trip every now and then. There is of course the GT model which gives you a bit more kit for a premium over the normal price but I skipped on this one as the 350 was already a smidgen over my budget!!
The mpg on the 350Z is better than the newer 370, I could normally get about 25 or 30 out of it at a push. In terms of running costs, they are quite high particularly for insurance but as I continue to age, premiums are going down, at the time I had the 350, I was a young man and therefore paying quite a lot!
I'm sure you'd be able to pick one of these up for a really good price these days and no doubt they will become a classic in the future. A fantastic car to run and own.
In American you can own a Ford Mustang or a Dodge Charger, but in Europe what can you go for? Well, up until 2005, not too much, but then Nissan launched the 350Z and I instantly needed one to live. Unfortunately I was just 18 at the same and couldn't afford one, but when I turned 24 and was making good money I thought why not?
It's been one of the best decisions I've made, it's got me women (sorry but it has), it's got me friends and it's got me respect. You're wondering why, aren't you? Well, it's probably due to the 3.5-litre V6 under the bonnet. The Nissan 350Z is so powerful most people just leave the car with their jaws ajar.
I'd happily recommend a 350Z to any young driver who can afford the insurance. It's a ton and a bit of pure testosterone, and I wouldn't swap it for anything.