2008 Nissan 350Z in Houston, TX - $13,988

Low, wide, svelte, sexy and cool, the Nissan 350Z coupe is the last word in very personalized speed conveyance. Last year's revisions included the late-model year addition of the high-performance NISMO 350Z -- for the first time ever in the Z's 37 year history.

The NISMO 350Z features an extensively developed list of unique equipment -- including a special body package and improved handling equipment. The most striking visual feature of this special vehicle is the NISMO aerodynamics package, which strongly resembles the Super GT championship winning Zs. Featuring an aggressive front fascia with chin spoiler, side skirts, and extended rear fascia with underbody diffuser and a rear wing, the NISMO 350Z produces additional aerodynamic downforce to provide enhanced cornering and handling performance.

Special consideration is given during the assembly of the NISMO 350Z -- structural rigidity is enhanced by adding more body welds to the already rigid 350Z body and additional supports are added front and rear. The NISMO 350Z also utilizes special body dampers mounted in the front radiator core support and in the rear cargo area, which assist in controlling body vibrations.

Additional performance features include a special NISMO-tuned independent multi-link suspension, Brembo brakes with four-piston front and two-piston rear calipers and special NISMO-branded gunmetal gray RAYS super lightweight forged-alloy wheels -- Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires -- 245/40WR18 front, 265/35WR19 rear. A special NISMO-branded tuned exhaust adds an even more authoritative tone to the Z's exhaust note.

Offered in Base, Enthusiast, Touring, Grand Touring and NISMO trim levels, power for the performance-oriented Nissan two-door is generated by the automaker's refined 3.5L V6 engine with the Continuously Variable Timing Control System. Torque is communicated to the street through a short throw six-speed manual transmission. A five-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and manual mode is optional for the Enthusiast and Grand Touring models.

The 350Z is based on Nissan's modern FM (front midship) platform. The combination of the long wheelbase and four-wheel independent suspension is the perfect foundation for the Z's performance suspension hardware. In front, a three-link aluminum-alloy suspension works with a stabilizer bar and strut bar.

At the rear, a four-link aluminum-alloy suspension works in concert with a stabilizer bar, strut brace and aluminum-alloy subframe for maximum control. Ripple-control shock absorbers and engine speed-sensitive power-assisted rack and pinion steering keep the Z roadster at the driver's beck and call in every situation.

The interior resembles a fighter jet cockpit. Displays and controls are direct and simple, with a clean presentation that is all business. The steering wheel/instrument cluster move together for perfect visibility at every angle. Analog gauges feature a "rally style" layout for oil pressure, volts and trip computer information. Several storage bins and a large glove box are actually located in back of the driver and front passenger in the rear wall of the passenger compartment. Seating is nicely bolstered and the outward view is good.

Dimensions & specifications

Regular coupe

Wheelbase: 104.3; overall length: 169.8; width: 71.5; height: 52.1

NISMO coupe

Wheelbase: 104.3; overall length: 173.6; width: 71.5; height: 52.1 -- all vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 306 hp at 6,800 rpm and 268 lbs-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm.

Transmission: six-speed close-ratio manual or five-speed automatic with manual shift mode.

EPA fuel economy: 18 city/25 hwy. (manual); 17 city/24 hwy. (automatic).

Cargo capacity: 6.8 cu. ft.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, high-intensity discharge headlamps, pipe-style steel side-door guard beams, tire pressure monitoring system, security system, vehicle immobilizer and remote keyless entry. Enthusiast adds limited slip rear axle, garage door opener and traction control. Touring adds Bluetooth hands free phone capability and vehicle stability control. Grand Touring adds Brembo braking system. NISMO adds seat-mounted side-impact airbags and roof-mounted side-impact curtain airbags.

Optional safety equipment includes navigation system.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile.

Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2008 Nissan 350Z coupe starts from $27,980 for the Base coupe up to $38,150 for the NISMO coupe. Destination charges add $625.

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