Nissan 350Z Track Coupe PDF Manual

The tradition of Nissan Z coupes stretches way back to 1970 when the legendary (Datsun) 240Z coupe first appeared. Buyers immediately took to the 240Z as not only did it offer a cheaper alternative to sports cars such as Porsches and Jaguar E-types, it also looked good, it had the right credentials (rear wheel drive, independent suspension and a punchy six-cylinder engine) and it provided plenty of driving enjoyment. In later years Z coupes grew larger and more powerful, yet they lacked the raw-edged sporty appeal of the earlier cars and the model line finished with the 300ZX in 1996.

The turbocharged four cylinder 200 SX has done a good job providing an affordable Nissan sports coupe, however it’s the 350Z’s job to re-ignite the Z-car passion with its up-to-the-minute styling, its latest technology mechanical specifications and a standard equipment list that should please all. Two 350Z models are available, the Touring at $59,990 and the Track at $65,990. Those prices get you the six-speed manual version;
five-speed automatic costs another $2,800. A roadster version of the 350Z is scheduled to arrive in Australia late this year. Both versions of the 350Z are powered by a high tech 3.5 litre 24-valve DOHC V6 engine that features an aluminium block and heads, continuously variable valve timing, direct ignition and electronic drive-by-wire throttle control.

Drive goes to the rear wheels through a carbon-fibre drive shaft and both traction control and a viscous limited slip rear differential are featured.
Suspension is independent multi-link front and rear, with substantial strut tower braces fitted at both the front and the rear. The four wheel ventilated disc brakes have anti-lock control plus brake assist and electronic brake force distribution. The Track version goes a step further with top quality Brembo brakes that have bigger rotors and four-piston calipers up front, and two-piston calipers at the rear. Both models are equipped with six airbags (front, front side and curtain bags), plus automatic air conditioning, heated leather power-adjustable sports seats, power windows, door locks and mirrors, 7-speaker Bose sound system, cruise control and drilled aluminium pedals. As well as Brembo brakes, the Track model adds Vehicle Dynamic Control, front and rear body spoilers, and bigger wheels and higher performance tyres.

The styling of the 350Z has been likened to one of its principal competitors – the Audi TT – however Nissan sees the shape as a logical and thoroughly modern reincarnation of the original 240Z, embodying today’s styling trends but still conveying the message that this is a serious sports car and not just a boulevarde cruiser. This sporting intent flows through to the interior, where you’ll find seating for two only, and just an open luggage area behind the seats. The load area is compromised by the rear suspension strut brace, but there’s reasonable space for soft luggage.
There is a handy lockable compartment behind the passenger’s seat, plus the usual oddment storage compartments. With a high body waistline and a low roof, the 350Z coupe tends to feel a bit claustrophobic inside and it is not an easy car to reverse park.

The layout of instruments and control is good; I particularly liked the extra (digital) speed readout high on the centre console and the clear cruise control buttons on the steering wheel. Like many a good sports car, the 350Z isn’t really appreciated around town. At slow speeds in stop/start traffic, progress in the manual version can even be a little jerky unless you’re careful with the throttle and clutch engagement. However once you’re rolling, and out on the open road, the 350Z performs in a very satisfying manner, with strong in-gear acceleration and quick throttle response. The performance is complemented by the six-speed gearbox, which has a nice change action and well-spaced ratios. The ride is very firm at low speeds, but again, things improve as you get moving. The suspension is compliant enough to handle mid-corner bumps without putting the car off-line and overall, the handling rates as first class.

Download Nissan 350Z Track Coupe PDF Manual