Intro: Nissan's latest generation of its Z car can be enjoyed as either as coupe or convertible. The 2011 Nissan 370Z boasts refined sports car styling, backed by a well-established performance pedigree.
The Z features modern L-design head-and-tail lights, while the "notch" rear windows harken back to the Datsun 280Z's of old. The drop-top roadster model adds wind-in-your-hair excitement to the equation and will open or close in just 20 seconds.
Performance: As the name suggests, the heart of the 370Z is a 3.7-liter V6, which comes standard. Output is rated at 332 horsepower and 270 pound feet of torque, which is sent to the rear wheels through either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic transmission. Those opting for the track-focused NISMO Z get a bump of 18 horsepower and 6 pound feet of torque to 350 and 276, respectively. Available only in the hard-top coupe, the NISMO also gets the 6-speed manual transmission and an aerodynamic body kit as standard equipment.
Fuel Economy: Fuel economy for the 370Z is as follows:
Features: Standard equipment on the base model carries a "driver focused" theme into the 2-passenger cabin, where a simple layout consists of two manually operated bucket seats, an exposed rear stabilizer bar, an instrument cluster that features a center-mounted tachometer, and additional gauges angled toward the driver.
Opting for the Touring model will get you leather power/heated seating and a Bose sound system. Options include a Navigation system, and a sport package that offers Rays 19-inch forged alloy wheels, a limited slip differential, and Nissan's all new SynchroRev matching system. This industry-first technology finds the optimal engine speed when downshifting during aggressive driving, making for smoother downshifts.
Safety: Standard safety equipment includes antilock brakes, with electronic brake force distribution, traction control, active head restraints, energy-absorbing steering column, side impact door beams, and front and side impact airbags.
Pricing: Base MSRP for the 2011 Nissan 370Z is $30,610. A range-topping Touring Convertible starts at $41,070.
Warranty: The 370Z is backed by a 5-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Summary: With a powerful engine and industry-first performance technology in a lean, light package, the 2011 Nissan 370Z could very well be the best "Z" yet!