The all-new 2003 Nissan 350Z sports car, which went on sale in North America in August, has already established itself as the anchor of the Nissan brand with its blend of Z-car tradition and cutting-edge technologies. "The 350Z is bringing customers into our showrooms that we haven't seen for a long time," said Nissan Canada director of marketing Ian Forsyth. "Its new level of features and quality in an affordable sports car has an extremely broad appeal, driven by car enthusiasts from all walks of life." Many of the design elements built into the 350Z have been included to ensure its ability to outperform European luxury sports cars costing thousands more. Highlights of the 2003 Nissan 350Z include:
Body
- Long wheelbase (2649 mm/ 104.3 inches) and wide stance
- Contemporary design with elements of 240Z and 300ZX
- Strong, spine-like beltline anchored with large, distinctive taillights
- Raised rear deck for enhanced aerodynamics
- Intimate greenhouse area with glass design similar to 240Z
Engine and Driveline
- 24-valve 3.5-litre DOHC V6 designed to produce 287 horsepower and 274 ft-lbs of torque
- ? Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVVTCS)
- Electronically controlled five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode or six-speed close- ratio manual transmission
- Front engine/rear-wheel drive
- Dual outlet exhaust
Suspension, Steering and Braking
- Four-wheel independent multi-link suspension with use of lightweight aluminum components
- Large diameter front and rear stabilizer bars
- Rack-and-pinion engine speed sensitive power steering
- Available Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS)
- Power-assisted vented front and rear disc brakes, four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with
Brake Assist - Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD)
- 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and 225/45R18 (front), 245/45R18 (rear) tires
Interior Features
- Driver-oriented interior environment
- Combination of classic and cutting-edge sports car interior design with metal and leather surface materials
- Three-bay gauge pods – similar to original 240Z design
- Centre console with solid aluminum look
- Exposed rear strut tower brace in rear cargo area with "Z" logo
Safety and Security
- Dual-stage front supplemental airbags
- Three-point ALR/ELR seatbelts (driver's seat ELR only)
- Front seatbelt with pretensioners and load limiters
- Front and rear crumple zones
- Energy-absorbing steering column
- Available driver and passenger side impact supplemental airbags and inflatable curtain supplemental airbags
- Standard vehicle security system and immobilizer