Buying used: Nissan 370Z (2009 – 2020)

The Nissan 370Z, launched in South Africa in 2009, continues a venerable tradition of Nissan sportscars. While the automotive industry has since shifted focus toward alternative propulsion methods, the 370Z remains a compelling option on the used-car market.

Nissan 370Z

2018 Nissan 370Z

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Nissan’s legacy in sportscars is well-established, dating back to the 1970 Datsun 240Z (Nissan Fairlady Z in Japan). This lineage includes several iconic models, each contributing to the brand’s storied history. The 350Z, which debuted in South Africa in the early 2000s, garnered significant interest as an affordable yet performance-oriented alternative to more expensive sportscars. This popularity paved the way for the 370Z in 2009, a model that refined its predecessor’s formula while becoming a formidable contender in the sportscar segment.

Nissan 370Z

2018 Nissan 370Z

A rundown on the Nissan 370Z

The Nissan 370Z is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine, delivering 245 kW and 363 N.m of torque. This naturally aspirated engine can be paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed automatic, both driving the rear wheels. The 370Z achieves a 0-100 km/h time of 5.3 seconds (5.6 seconds for the automatic) and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

Nissan’s fourth-generation VQ engine in the 370Z is 6% more powerful and 11% more efficient than the 3.5-liter unit in the 350Z. Despite the addition of numerous safety and luxury features, the 370Z is 80 kg lighter than its predecessor. A 53/47 weight distribution enhances turn-in grip, though our 2018 test revealed specific handling characteristics:

“Dynamically, it still feels competitive. The ride is cosseting over broken surfaces and affords the Z a rounded character for daily use. A mass of 1 536 kg (measured on our scales fully fuelled) means that it is more suited to flowing bends than sharp corners anyway.”

The 370Z was available in both Coupé and Convertible forms, though the latter was eventually discontinued due to shifting market preferences.

Nissan 370Z

Image: Nissan SA

Things to look out for when buying a used Nissan 370Z

Potential buyers should be aware of several known issues with the 370Z:

  1. Oil Consumption: High-mileage units may exhibit excessive oil consumption, potentially necessitating engine rebuilds or replacements.
  2. Clutch Wear: Aggressive driving can lead to premature clutch failure. Upgrading to a high-performance aftermarket clutch and flywheel is advisable.
  3. Transmission Issues: The six-speed manual gearbox may experience grinding noises and shifting difficulties, often requiring a transmission rebuild or synchro replacement.
  4. Steering Lock Failure: Some models may suffer from steering lock failure, necessitating replacement or removal of the steering lock mechanism.
  5. Suspension Noises: The suspension may exhibit clunking or knocking noises, requiring replacing worn suspension components.
Nissan 370Z

Image: Nissan SA

Which one to get?

When choosing a used 370Z, the decision between a solid roof and a retractable one will largely depend on personal preference. Convertibles are rarer and may retain value better, though they typically command higher prices. For broader availability, the coupé is recommended. A 2017 Nissan 370Z Coupé Automatic, currently listed for R529 900 with 33 441 km on the odometer, exemplifies the used market offerings.

Browse thousands of new and used vehicles here with CARmag! 

The post Buying used: Nissan 370Z (2009 – 2020) appeared first on CAR Magazine.


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