| Overview |
HOW CAN ONE LETTER MEAN SO MUCH?
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| Punch the 350Z's throttle and hear an unmistakable battle cry through dual exhausts. Give it an authorative push and feel 306 horsepower pulling you towards a 7500 rpm redline. Challenge your favorite corner from the contours of a racing-inspired driver's seat and feel what nearly 40 years of dedication to a sports car can do. The Nissan 350Z. The last letter of the alphabet - the first choice for the enthusiast. |
| Exterior |
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Wheel-oriented design
A car that looks different at every angle with Z defining grille opening and marker lights. It's sleek and silent. It's aggressive and confident. It's a sports car whose looks are as unique as its abilities. |
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Door Handle Design
It's a door handle. It's a sculpture. It's a door handle like no other, on a car like no other. |
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Headlight Design
Through a unique monocle design, the projector beam Xenon headlights illuminate apexes of tight hairpins, and match the spectral wavelength where human eyes are the most sensitive.
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Auto-sealing Windows
The aerodynamics are so complete, even the side windows of the 350Z follow a two-step closing procedure to assure an optimum wind-tight seal at speed. |
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Wiper Sprayers
The 350Z is so aerodynamically efficient, that even the wiper sprayers were specially designed. Not on the hood, but tucked into the wipers themselves, the sprayers are better able to do their job at speed. |
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Wheel Design
The 350Z's massive, standard Brembo® disc brakes require large wheels and tires to clear the hardware. Grand Touring Roadstar models enjoy meaty 18-inch wheels and W-rated tires. For even more grip, Coupe models receive 18-inch front and 19-inch rear tires with RAYS® super-lightweight forged alloy wheels. It's win-win all the way around.
Brembo® is a registered trademark of Freni Brembo S.p.A RAYS® is a registered trademark of RAYS engineering. |
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Roadster Power Top
The regular world melts away in 20 seconds as the Grand Touring Roadster's power top stows itself. Nothing between you and the song of pure horsepower through a tuned low back-pressure exhaust. The sizzle of high-performance tires as you bend into a turn. The invigorating breeze as you punch a Z-sized hole in the air. |
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Rear Wind Deflector
Beautiful and functional. The rear wind deflector on the Grand Touring Roadster not only acts as a windscreen, it also beautifully presents the Z logo to those envious drivers behind you. |
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Lightweight Design
The driveshaft is made with carbon fibre. The hood, suspension and engine - as much as possible. The steering wheel, magnesium. Even the aluminum pedals are drilled. While all this innovation is far from easy, it isn't nearly as difficult as trying to sell a sports car with anything less than mind-blowing acceleration. The carbon-fibre composite driveshaft means a significant reduction of the always-ugly rotating weight, while the liberal use of aluminum throughout the suspension means a twenty-five percent weight reduction versus standard materials. All for a sports car that is as quick through the turns and off the line as it is out of the showroom. |
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Zero-lift Design
Since the goal was zero lift, there were endless adjustments to the air flow management. Then, high-speed testing. On proud, high-banked ovals. Sinister road circuits. and even in a state-of-the-art wind tunnel. The result? A 350Z with zero lift front and rear and a drag coefficient (Cd) of just .29 on the Grand Touring Coupe models. (.34 on Grand Touring Roadster). |
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Mid-ship Platform
Location is everything. Keeping the majority of weight inside the 350Z's wheelbase means quicker steering response and balanced handling. To that end, the engine in the 350Z is pushed rearward in the chassis, creating what's known as a front-engine, mid-ship design. To enhance stability at the rear of the 350Z, the fuel tank and seats were also pushed as close to the centre as possible. |
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Weight Distribution
50/50 is held up as the ideal weight distribution for balanced handling. But Nissan engineers asked not only why, but when? Through a complex series of calculations it was determined that for a 350Z at rest - a rare thing indeed - 53 front / 47 rear ratio is ideal. Why? Because once a vehicle moves, things change dramatically. When? Entering a corner in a 350Z, heavy braking sends the weight up front, improving traction. At the precise moment the driver accelerates out of the apex, the weight distribution shifts rearward and becomes an approximate 50/50 balance. This translates into excellent stability, allowing better tire contact, improved directional stability, and quicker turns. |
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Flat-ride Concept
The Nissan 350Z is a wheel-centric car, which means its body was essentially poured around the wheels that were placed at the four corners, creating a long wheelbase. Then we adjusted the weight distribution, pushing the engine back, the driver's seat toward the middle and the fuel tank forward, toward the centre of gravity, all of which help to keep better tire contact for improved cornering performance. |
| Interior |
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Seat Bolsters
A lesson learned from racing – sliding around the interior is no way to go fast. That’s why you’ll find the 350Z’s driver’s seat is different from the passenger side, with special contours for maximum control. Upper bolsters taper below the shoulders to avoid interference when shifting or cornering. Deeper bolsters around the torso and thighs, along with kneepads on the centre console, give a reassuring hug in cornering. The lower seat cushion is long and firm for support, with cutouts on both sides for optimum pedal operation. |
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Racing Steering Wheel
It starts with a lightweight magnesium core with the rim shaped like a kidney bean to follow the way the human hand folds. Varying thicknesses of padding encourages optimum hand placement, while the stitched-leather cover delights you every time you grab it. Steering-wheel-mounted audio controls are a finger tip away, while the instrument cluster tilts with the steering column, helping to make sure you have a clear view of that quick-moving tachometer. |
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Shifter Design
The intensity of the 350Z matched by a short-throw 6-speed manual transmission that is set up for close-ratio gearing from first to fifth for high-performance driving, and a tall overdrive sixth gear for highway economy and reduced engine noise. Or for those who prefer the convenience of an automatic, choose the 5-speed automatic, tuned for high performance. |
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Gauges
When you climb into a 350Z, one of the first things you’ll notice is the single-mindedness of the cockpit. Built for performance. Not distractions. Gauges whose height adjust with the steering wheel, to assure excellent visibility at all times. A large tach mounted front and centre because of its importance, coupled with an available programmable shift indicator light. |
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Programmable Shift Light
Not all computers are boring. In the tach of the 350Z is a programmable shift indicator light. Choose your shift points and it will flash as you close on the specified rpm, and turn solid once you reach it, helping you get to highway speed quicker. (Manual transmission models only) |
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Gauge Cluster
In addition to the stopwatch function, the 350Z drive computer also displays current speed, average speed, fuel efficiency, distance to empty, outside temperature, tire pressure and single-trip driving time. Measuring to hundreds of hours. |
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Bose® Audio System
Audio that goes the distance. A standard 7-speaker, 240-watt Bose® digital audio sound system features the ability to listen to over 1,000 songs in the MP3-capable in-dash 6-disc CD changer.
Bose® is a registered trademark of The Bose Corporation. |
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DVD-based Nissan Navigation System*
Man does not live by curved road alone – sometimes you want pizza. Along with route guidance, points of interest (including food by choice of cuisine), and 3-D Birdview™mapping, the available DVD-based Nissan Navigation System can function as an address book, with room for up to 100 of you favorite destinations
*Factory installed option. Never program while driving. GPS mapping may not be detailed in all areas or reflect current road regulations. Birdview™ is a trademak of Xanai Corporation. |
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Automatic Climate Control
Keeping you cool and comfortable, the 350Z’s Automatic Climate Control allows you to automatically maintain your ideal temperature setting according to your own personal choice. |
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Power Seat Controls
Not only can the power seat controls help you find the optimum seating position, but they are placed on the inside of the seats, so you can adjust the passenger’s seat from the driver’s side. |
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HomeLink®/Auto-dimming Mirror
There is nothing cooler than a multi-tasking rearview mirror. It dims bright headlights behind you, and can be programmed to open your garage doors and even the security gate. |
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A Truly Unique Space
From compartments and seat pockets that hold cell phones, CDs and PDAs to plenty of cargo space behind the seats and under the rear hatch, the Nissan 350Z is the perfect blend of pure sports car, total refinement and efficient design. |
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Bluetooth® Hand-Free Phone System
With the 350Z’s Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone System (not available on Grand Touring Roadster) and your compatible phone1, a simple touch of a button lets you make and receive calls without your hands leaving the wheel. It’s all voice-activated so you can call out the digits or dial from the system’s 40 number programmable memory. When inspiration strikes, there’s a “memo pad” feature that lets you record messages for playback later.
1Availability of specific features is dependant upon the phone’s Bluetooth support. Please refer to your phone owner’s manual for details. Cell phone not included. See Nissan.ca for a list of compatible cell phones. The Bluetooth word mark and logos are owned by Bluetooth SIG. Inc., and any use of use of such marks by Nissan is under licence. |
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XM™ Satellite Radio
With XM™ Satellite Radio (not available on Grand Touring Roadster), you get 120 channels of music, entertainment, news and sports, including Home IceSM, the world’s first hockey channel – and that’ a power play anyone can enjoy.*
*XM™ is a trademark of XM Satellite Radio Inc. and used under licence by XM Canada. Required XM subscription sold separately after three trial months. Reception of the XM signal may vary depending on location. All fees and programming subject to change. Subscriptions subject to terms and conditions available at www.xmradio.ca. Home IceSM is a service mark of XM Satellite Radio Inc. |
| Driving Dynamics |
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3.5 L V6 Engine
It loves to win.The 350Z’s legendary VQ engine has been named 13 times as one of the “10 Best Engines” by WardsAuto.com* - the only engine ever to do so. Consider its qualifications: 306 HP and a 7500 rpm redline. From a rigid crankshaft ladder frame to continuously variable valve timing that operates over a wide rpm range, it’s been massaged, honed and fine-tuned. And with a twin air-intake system leading to a large-diameter, high-low exhaust, even the air is inspired to create a memorable performance.
*WardsAuto.com, January 2007 |
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Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control
Taking advantage of the 4-valve heads’ free-breathing abilities, at the end of each intake camshaft and exhaust camshaft is a gear that changes the camshaft’s positioning, based on sensors measuring throttle position, vehicle speed and engine rpm. The results: Massive torque for low-speed acceleration, and an exhilarating run to the redline that will leave you – but not the 350Z – breathless. |
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Friction and Weight Reduction
The less internal friction, the easier it is for an engine to rev – a good thing. That’s why the 350Z uses liberal applications of engineering brilliance to keep things moving. Key components, including the crankshaft and camshafts, are microscopically finished and finely polished. Molybdenum, a black super-slick compound, is applied to specific areas of the pistons to substantially reduce internal engine friction. |
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Exhaust System
Just as fast as the 350Z gulps air, it gets rid of it with equal efficiency through a large-diameter, high-flow exhaust system finished with a high-capacity dual-outlet muffler. It’s a unique exhaust system that offers the obvious advantages of dual exhaust, while greatly reducing weight and improving undercarriage aerodynamics. All tuned for a wonderful exhaust note that seems to say goodbye in the ears of the competition. |
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Carbon-fibre Composite Driveshaft
The carbon-fibre composite driveshaft means a significant reduction of the rotating weight. Though it is only 25 pounds (11.34 kg) lighter than a similar driveshaft made from steel, it is an enormous 25 pounds (11.34 kg) of weight once the stopwatch comes out. |
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6-speed Close-ratio Manual Transmission
The 6-speed manual transmission with close-ratio design means you can squeeze every prodigious horsepower out of the engine to its 7500 rpm redline and always find the ideal gear for any driving situation. |
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5-speed Automatic Transmission with Manual Mode
The 5-speed automatic even a stick shift purist could love. With a manual style control, a tap of the lever forward to upshift, a gentle tug back to downshift. And with rev-matching, the transmission automatically “blips” the throttle to match rpm for a smoother downshift – just like you might do with a manual. |
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Suspension
To give precise wheel control and enhance steering feel, the 350Z features a 3-link front suspension that’s so advance, it earned 14 patents. Four links in the rear help to keep the tires vertical, to maximize contact patch for better grip. It also allows the shocks to be separated from the springs and placed directly above the wheels, improving performance and reducing friction. |
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Tire Pressure Monitoring System
The 350Z comes with a tire pressure monitoring system that enables the driver to monitor tire pressure both at rest and at speed. |
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Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)
VDC* Instantly senses when your car is losing its steered line of trajectory and responds by reducing engine torque and braking specific wheels as necessary.
*VDC is designed to help improve driving stability, but does not prevent accidents due to abrupt steering or by carelessness or dangerous driving techniques, or any other reason. Always drive safely. |
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Traction Control System (TCS)
Designed to help enhance rear-wheel grip when accelerating, the 350Z’s Traction Control System senses wheelspin and automatically reduces engine output and/or brakes the spinning wheel to help give you a surer foothold. |
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Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD)
To help optimize braking performance for a variety of vehicle loads, EBD adjusts the amount of brake force applied to the front and rear wheels for improved braking performance, reduced front-end “dive” under braking and more even brake wear. |
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Viscous Limited-slip Differential
The limited-slip differential distributes power to the rear wheel with the most traction. This helps the car maintain composure and directional stability during hard cornering. |
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Brake Assist
In emergency braking situations, many drivers don’t brake hard enough. Brake Assist monitors how you apply the brakes and, sensing emergency braking, applies maximum brake force for potentially shorter stops. |
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Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Give yourself more control in panic-braking situations. All 350Z’s are equipped with a 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System that helps you maintain steering control during emergency braking. |
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Brembo® Braking System
World-renowned Brembo® brakes are famous for their ability to endure the most rigorous forms of motor sports and put in a winning performance. Championing the braking on the 350Z is the gripping power of 4-piston front calipers on massive 12.8” front rotors cooled by Brembo’s unique air-management system.
Brembo® is a registered trademark of Freni Brembo S.p.A. |
| Safety |
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5-Star Rating
350Z received a 5-star rating (the highest) in side-impact crash test safety from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration*
*Testing conducted by the U.S. National Highway Traffic safety Administration. Government data only useful in comparing vehicles within 227 kg (500 pounds). |
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Rear Crumple Zone
In addition to its high-strength cabin structure (or Zone Body) with reinforcements and cross-members, the rear crumple zone is designed to help absorb energy in an impact and reduce the risk of injury to occupants. |
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Front Crumple Zone
A crumple zone up front helps absorb energy, reducing the risk of injury to occupants. |
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Hood Buckling Creases
The hood is built to buckle at predetermined points while the engine, in certain frontal impacts, is designed to drop down and away from the passenger compartment. Even the driveshaft, again in certain impacts, is designed to collapse, further helping to reduce the risk of injury. |
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Anti-theft System
The Anti-theft System helps keep your 350Z, your 350Z. Set the alarm, and if anyone tries to force a door open, or even reach through an open window and unlock the car, the blast of the horn and the flashing lights will send them running. There is also a panic button on the key fob to sound the alarm for 30 seconds. It’s especially helpful when you can’t remember where in the parking garage you actually parked. |
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Immobilizer Key System
A screwdriver will not start a 350Z. This is good. Built into the 350Z is a microchip that matches with a sensor in the steering column. Without that match, nothing happens. A good nothing. |
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Nissan Advanced Airbag System
Includes dual-stage supplemental front airbags* with seat belt sensors and an occupant-classification sensor. The inflation rate of these dual-stage airbags adjusts depending on crash severity and seat belt usage. |
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Side Airbags
Side-impact supplemental airbags* are built into the seats and move with you as you adjust the seat. |
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Side Curtain Airbags
Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental airbags* help provide head protection to the driver and passenger during certain types of collisions. |
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Seat Belt Pre-tensioners
Not all seat belts are equal. The seatbelts inside the 350Z are equipped with pre-tensioners that automatically help tighten the belts when airbags deploy, adjusting to help secure the occupants as well as assure they are properly positioned for the airbags. |
*Please keep in mind that airbags are a supplemental restraint system and must always be used in conjunction with a seat belt. Never let children 12 and under ride in this vehicle unless a front passenger airbag on/off switch has been installed. Side airbags and side curtain airbags are designed to inflate in higher severity side collisions and inflate on the side of the vehicle impacted. Please see your owner’s manual for more details. Inflated airbags shown for illustration purposes only. Actual airbags deflate after deployment. Side-impact curtain airbags not available on Grand Touring Roadster models.
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