2008 Nissan 350Z Roadster Review
The 350Z is based upon the classic Z-car series, whose run ended in 1996. After seven years, the new 350Z Coupe was introduced in 2003. A year later, the roadster version with a powered soft top was unveiled. The NISMO was added in 2007. The 350Z made Car and Driver’s “Ten Best” list in 2003.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Nissan 350Z Roadster, like its brother the coupe, is a sports car that packs a lot of value for the money. Offering unparalleled performance for the price, the 350Z roadster is tough to beat in this price range. It’s a fast, fun, safe, solidly-built car.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power ratings are not available. Problems include issues with cold starting, brake noise, hatches that get stuck, high idle speeds and vehicle noise. It’s been recalled once for cracking fuel hoses. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The roadster earned 4.5 stars in government frontal crash tests. No other data is available. Anti-lock brakes and side airbags come standard. The Grand Touring includes upgraded brakes.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Strong styling
+ Standard side airbags
+ Great value
Cons
– Poor visibility
– Noisy
– Some mediocre materials
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT costs about a thousand less, but has 40 less hp. The Ford Mustang GT convertible costs about the same, and adds a V8 engine and more side airbags. A hard-top Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring costs a few thousand less, but cuts the horsepower nearly in half, with only a four-cylinder engine.
What Others Are Saying:
“This is a car to keep in the garage in foul weather. It’s a must-use car when the sun is shining or the night is clear and mild. Keep the top down and enjoy it… The Nissan Z Roadster is a joy, with its light clutch, quick acceleration, easy shifts, strong brakes and sure handling.” – About.com
“The Z’s powerplant’s guttural moan vibrates through the floorboards and around the metal carcoon in a most sensually satisfying manner. Open the lid and this is what a proper sports car is all about: pure, unadulterated exhilaration.” – The Truth About Cars
“The Nissan Z might be built in Japan by a Japanese car company, but it is very much an American car in that it has been embraced and defined by the American public for more than three decades. Let’s celebrate the fact that Nissan once again is able to offer a brand-new, affordable Z-car and is no longer forced to sell reconditioned 240Zs to keep the dream alive.” – Automobile Magazine
Read more about the 2008 Nissan 350Z Roadster at the Nissan manufacturer web site.
