In the nearly 40 years since the first-generation S30 model debuted in 1969 as the Fairlady in Japan and 240Z overseas, it has as earned a reputation as one of the most desirable sportscars in the world, with approximately 1.7 million units sold to date. The iconic sportscar evolved over time and became more powerful but market trends changed too and by 1996, Nissan found sales too low in its major market, the USA, to justify keeping the model alive and made no plans for a successor. However, when Carlos Ghosn moved into Nissan, he supported calls to bring back the sportscar and approved development of an all-new model which went on sale in 2003. This weekend, the all-new second generation gets its first sales launch in Japan.
Carlos Ghosn supported the revival of the Z and approved development of a new model for the 21st century
The latest Z – now designated 370Z - embodies the first generation's signature “Z-ness” in terms of high performance, design and high value, incorporates dramatic advances in dynamic performance and perceived quality. The new 370Z’s unmistakable front-engine, rear-drive body proportions only hint at the overwhelming performance inherent under its beautifully sculpted skin. Further suggestion of the exhilarating driving experience that awaits is given by its iconic “Z-ness” – from the dynamic character line that runs from the headlights to the rear, delineating the waistline and cabin arch to the flared rear fenders that strongly accentuate the drive wheels.
The headlights and the rear combination lamps function as the "stop, flick and pullout" motions that end brush strokes in calligraphy. Their treatment produces a “boomerang motion” that has the intended effect of drawing all the styling elements together.
The wheelbase of the new 370Z has been shortened by 100 mm from that of the previous model, a move that is claimed to make handling more crisp and enhance dynamic performance as well as give a more aggressive sport stance.
The new model weighs approximately the same as the previous model, despite its enhanced equipment features and the body rigidity measures that have been adopted to improve safety performance. Significant weight savings were achieved by using aluminium for the bonnet, door panels and hatchback and by optimizing various body structures.
The new Z’s cockpit design pursues a sense of solid security and a feeling of unity with the driver. For example, a wire frame was added to the shoulder portions of the driver's seat for better support. The cushion and main section of the seatback are covered with a slide-resistant suede material. A low driver’s seat hip point keeps the body from shifting laterally, providing support for withstanding powerful cornering forces. These features, along with a lumbar support, enable the driver to maintain a proper driving posture at all times.
The interior features a new suede cloth which can be attached to 3-dimensional panel surfaces (something that was not possible with the types of trim cloth used previously). This high-quality, dense suede cloth has a pleasing tactile feel and imparts a soft, embracing sensation to the cockpit area. The lid of the centre stack storage bin is covered with a new soft-touch synthetic leather that is embellished with double stitching. Meticulous attention was also paid to the material, firmness and finish of the driver's kneepad, providing comfortable support for the inside knee. The centre armrest is thoughtfully rounded to avoid interfering with the driver's shifting action.
In addition, the layout of the pedals and steering wheel was revised for easier operation, enabling the driver to execute driving actions quickly. The front pillars are positioned so as to allow the driver to see ahead easily on curves, while maintaining wide visibility to the right and left sides.
The three large-diameter, independent meters feature a sporty design, excellent legibility and superior functionality. The diameter of both the tachometer and speedometer was increased and the shape of the steering wheel rim was extended outward on both sides to expand the visible area of the meters. The traditional trio of ancillary gauges, a signature Z design from the first-generation, now has an oil temperature gauge as befitting a true sports car (instead of an oil pressure gauge).
This new model is the first in the Z series to adopt Nissan's Intelligent Key system and a push-button engine starter. When the “Engine Start” button is pushed, the needles of the tachometer, speedometer and the trio of three gauges swing in unison as the engine comes to life.
New 3.7-litre VQ engine has world's first 6-speed manual transmission with synchronized rev control
The new 370Z is powered by the VQ37VHR engine with Nissan's Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) system. It generates a maximum output 247 kW/(336 ps) at 7000 rpm and maximum torque of 365 Nm at 5200 rpm.
A world's first is claimed for the 6-speed manual transmission with synchronized rev control that regulates the engine speed to the optimum level, matching the driver's shifting action when changing gears. Also available is a 7-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift mode that lets drivers enjoy the direct shifting sensation of a manual gearbox along with world-class shift response.
The chassis combines a double-wishbone front suspension with a multi-link rear suspension. In addition to adopting a dual-flow-path construction and internal rebound springs, the shock absorbers incorporate high-responsive ripple control to provide both excellent handling response and supple ride comfort.
Aluminium-caliper opposed-piston Akebono brakes are fitted at all four wheels for driving ease in urban areas and in congested traffic, together with stable braking performance on winding roads and in high-speed cruising.
In the Japanese market, Nissan expects to sell 500 new 370Zs a month at prices ranging from 3,622,500 yen (RM138,017) to 4,462,500 yen (RM170,021). Exports should begin in the new year with the US market obviously being among the first to get the car since that is where the Z has been so loved by enthusiasts.
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