Nissan 370Z Nismo | Going Away Party

We review the last and likely final iteration of the Nissan Nismo 370Z. In this video, we dissect some of the things that make it unique given its age and also why it may not make sense as a new car. There are many exciting aspects to a car of this vintage so we look at the pros and the cons. However, at $45000 there is stiff competition like the Mustang GT, Chevy Camaro SS 1LE, Honda Civic Type R.

Index:
00:00 - 00:49 Intro
00:49 - 2:39 Interior Impressions
2:39 - 7:18 Mechanical Impressions, Suspension, Transmission, and Diff
7:18 - 8:44 Engine and Weight Balance
8:44 - 15:51 Driving Impressions
15:51 Final Thoughts

[paliH]

Your final thoughts were spot on.
"why are they still making this?"
They stop making it.
*why don't they make cars like this anymore?"

[TheBovinated]

As a Z owner I agree with a lot of points! Really great review.
Thought I'd add my 2 cents for anyone interested in an ownership experience for these cars:

Price

I think the main appeal with these cars is that the base and sport editions can be had for very cheap -- the Nismo edition makes almost no sense price wise and has few stand-out features over the regular car and competitors in the market (even has some unique downsides like the fake engine noise!).
For me, I picked up a base 6 speed manual car in Canada (for under 25K brand new with dealer incentives) with the goal of having a good street / track car to learn the basics on.
At that price point the car is quite compelling - the BRZ / FRS are about as expensive and to get into a new 5.0 or SRT product you need to go $40k+ in Canada.

Reliability

Contrary to Nissan's reputation these cars are easily serviceable and actually VERY reliable in almost all respects if treated correctly (this is key for any sports car though).
The engine, transmission, and rest of the drivetrain are near bulletproof even with N/A power mods. If you stay ahead of fluid changes you will have no problems.
Common problems have been quite well documented and include CSC failure, diff & rear subframe bushing degradation, weak paint, and poor chassis coverings leading to potential corrosion.
I have driven mine 140k KM and have only encountered wear & tear issues (have been waiting for the infamous CSC failure but it has not occurred yet!)
Maintenance costs are very reasonable and even more so if you do the work yourself.

Mods & Aftermarket

With base bolt-ons and tune these cars can consistently approach 320-330 rwhp (270 stock) and still be very reliable.
This isn't necessarily impressive by modern standards but it is more than enough power to have some fun on the street or track.

Summary

Prices on these cars can be quite compelling and for the right price can really deliver a fun manual sports car experience.
If you're looking for a straight line monster or the newest tech / features then this car will be a huge disappointment to you.

If you're a fan of Japanese cars and are looking for a nicely balanced ride that takes well to mods and is easy to maintain the Z might be a good option for you.
When compared to competitors though it has really fallen behind as a premium product.. Definitely excited for the 400z and what that has to offer!

Love the show guys! Keep the content coming!

[MrSchnll]

The trick with Alcantara is ACTUALLY CLEANING IT. Shocking I know.

[Adrian-ulwr]

Regardless of the age, this is my dream car man. I currently own a 2017 Civic Si Coupe...but man on the occasion I see any 370z, I just can't help but want the car even more.

[DrivingDiego]

I own a 370z myself... and I agree, it’s hard to make an argument for buying a new one in 2020. However, I bought my 2010 for 13k and that is where this car makes a ton of sense. If you’re a person who likes to modify their car while maintaining usability/reliability, it’s perfect. You fix the 2 or 3 issues with cooling, etc and then you have a bulletproof V6 that you can road trip and turn lap after lap on the track. Not to mention it’s the perfect classic sports car equation: RWD+manual+naturally aspirated. If you’re considering one used, don’t let this review turn you away. It’s a steal right now for the earlier model ones. I’d argue it’s the perfect first sports car for those trying to dip their feet in. Loved the review though ;)

[ohadparan]

The people who like this car REALLY like it. My neighbor has one that he’s modded within an inch of its life and it’s fast as hell. He told me he wants to be buried it in, and he won’t be buying the new one.

[WheelmanMike]

I bought a brand new 2009 370Z and sold it after a couple years but it still is the most fun car I've ever owned. I remember being able to push the car hard through corners and having a lot of confidence in the car. I have a 2009 Z06 and a 1996 Viper GTS and while both those cars are much quicker than my old 370, the 370 was just as much fun to drive. I can't wait to see how the 400Z benchmarks.

[wagjkproduction]

I know it is dated.... but it is just good looking.

[aiGeis]

I don't care what anyone says, stock and modified these things look stunning. Add in all the aftermarket support and uniqueness of the mkIV supra-style interior, nice tach, and future cool-factor and you have one helluva car. Not 45k worth, but still great when you put the price aside.

[MaddNomad]

I’m just happy we still have the Z, 86/BRZ, Miata, WRX, etc. A lot of fun for a decent amount of money.

[Awyp]

JUST WANT TO PUT THIS OUT HERE: If you're comparing the 370z to the Camaros and Mustangs from a performance perspective please also compare it from a reliability perspective. The american counterparts have a hard time reaching 100, 000 miles without problems, while the 370z on numerous forums has gone past 200, 000 miles. If you want a sports car for a long time, it's a great option.

[louiearmstrong]

Nissan: "Innovation That Excites!™"

Also Nissan: Makes the same products for 10-15 years without major revisions

[johnblair]

I cannot wait to take delivery of my 370Z Nismo at the end of this month! Truly a special car.

[kevonevans]

This will be a classic. Great looking car, Timeless design. If the selling price was reasonable I would have gotten one.

[feelthatfeelthat]

Enthusiasts have been complaining about this car for over 8 years now. What enthusiasts don't realize is that this is the last JDM car that has a naturally aspirated v6, a manual transmission and hydraulic steering. Good luck getting these ever again...which is why prices are only going up with these cars.

[louie]

This video should get over 3000 likes for the fact that he didn't beep out the F- bomb.

[PianoBlackTrimRep.]

Shout out to Turbowski, wherever he is.

[zeliangchen]

I owned a 2014 370z ( auto/convertible) for a year, it was my first sports car and I absolutely love it, I love the way it looks, love the way it handles, It was confidence inspiring for a new driver, so fun to drive, the auto even today is not that bad, definitely would buy a nismo in the future

[loki_wolff]

It's been a great 6+ years with my 2009 370z. It's a real driving experience you just don't get anymore. Good power, fantastic handling and an amazing engine sound with a proper exhaust. The aftermarket support is pretty huge too.

[faekz]

The Z is going to go up in value soon because of drift tax just wait.