Nissan 350Z Vs. 370Z: What's The Difference?

Nissan 350Z Vs. 370Z: What’s The Difference?

The Nissan Z series lineage is legendary in the sports car world, representing a perfect blend of performance, style, and affordability. With the 350Z and 370Z, Nissan continued this tradition, capturing the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide. CarBuzz is here to analyze the differences between the Nissan 350Z and Nissan 370Z model generations, focusing on their distinct vehicle specifications. The 350Z was the fifth generation of the Z car and was replaced by the 370Z, but how much difference can one generation make? Let’s find out.

Brief History Of The Nissan Z Car

The journey of the Nissan Z car began with the Datsun 240Z in 1969, designed to be a sports car that was both affordable and fun to drive; today, this classic sports car is highly coveted. Originally, the Z that started it all quickly gained popularity, setting the stage for future Z models. Over the years, the Z series has evolved through several generations, each improving on the last.

The Nissan 350Z, introduced in 2002, marked the fifth generation of the Z car. It revitalized the Z line after the hiatus following the 300ZX’s discontinuation in 1996 (in the USA). The 350Z was produced until 2008, when it was succeeded by the 370Z, the sixth generation. The 370Z carried on the legacy until its discontinuation in 2020, making way for the latest Z model, the Nissan Z, introduced in 2022.

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350Z Vs. 370Z Design

When comparing the design of the Nissan 350Z vs the 370Z, several key differences between them emerge, yet both cars have their similarities as well. Each vehicle comes in a coupe and roadster variant, utilizes a mid-engine configuration, and inherits the distinct long-hood short-deck design iconic to the Z-car family. The 350Z features a muscular, clean design that has aged well, with a length of around 169 inches, and a width of 71.5 inches. Its bold and aggressive stance is characteristic of early 2000s sports cars.

In contrast, the 370Z boasts a sleeker, more sporty look with modern characteristics. It is slightly shorter and wider than the 350Z, measuring 167.5 inches in length, and 72.6 inches in width. This lower and wider stance enhances its aerodynamic profile and stability. The 370Z’s sharper lines, updated headlights and taillights, including LED daytime running lights and the distinctive “boomerang” shape, give it a contemporary appeal.

Improvements in rigidity are another significant aspect of the 370Z’s design. The use of more high-strength steel and stronger architecture contributes to the vehicle’s precision handling and a more responsive driving experience, making the 370Z not only look more modern but also perform better on the road and track.

350Z Vs. 370Z Performance

Performance should be at the top of the list when analyzing the difference between the 350Z and 370Z. The 350Z is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, initially the VQ35DE, producing 287 horsepower and 274 lb-ft of torque. In later models, the upgraded VQ35HR engine increased output to 306 hp and 268 lb-ft. The 350Z accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.5 seconds, offering an exciting driving experience.

2008 Nissan NISMO 350Z 8 — Bring A Trailer

The 370Z, with its 3.7-liter V6 engine (VQ37VHR), significantly ups the ante. This engine delivers 332 hp and 270 lb-ft, pushing the 370Z from 0 to 60 mph in around five seconds. The 370Z Nismo variant offers even more power, with 350 hp and 276 lb-ft, providing a truly exhilarating performance for enthusiasts.

2016 Nissan 370Z NISMO 6 — Bring A Trailer

Both models come standard with a six-speed manual transmission, though the 370Z introduces a SynchroRev Match feature for smoother and more precise downshifting. For those preferring automatic transmissions, the 370Z offers a seven-speed automatic compared to the 350Z’s five-speed, contributing to better fuel efficiency and quicker acceleration.

Besides better straight-line performance, Nissan also revised the suspension of the 370Z, replacing the lower multi-link setup of the 350Z with double wishbones. The 370Z weighs less and boasts better torsional rigidity than its predecessor.

Below, we can see a comparison between the earliest 350Z and the most recent 370Z, demonstrating the improvements between generation five and six:

	2003 Nissan 350Z	2020 Nissan 370Z
Engine	3.5-liter V6	3.7-liter V6
Horsepower	287 hp	332 hp
Torque	274 lb-ft	270 lb-ft
0-60 mph	~ 5.5 seconds	~ 4.9 seconds

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350Z Vs. 370Z Interior

The interior is another area where the Nissan 370Z shows significant advancements over the 350Z. The 350Z’s interior, while functional, has been criticized for its use of hard plastics and a somewhat dated design. It was period-correct for the day and age if you will and features straightforward analog gauges, supportive seats, and a driver-focused layout, which suits the car’s sporty character but lacks modern comforts.

The 370Z, on the other hand, benefits from a more refined and modern interior. Nissan addressed the criticisms of the 350Z by upgrading the materials used, adding more soft-touch surfaces, and incorporating advanced technology. The 370Z offers a more ergonomic design, better quality finishes, and additional features such as a premium Bose audio system, integrated navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity, enhancing the overall driving experience.

2016 Nissan 370Z NISMO 10 — Bring A Trailer

Seating comfort and support were also improved in the 370Z. Options for leather upholstery and heated seats make the 370Z a more comfortable ride, suitable for both daily commutes and long drives. The instrument cluster was updated to provide clearer and more comprehensive information, including a digital readout for additional performance metrics.

2016 Nissan 370Z NISMO 7 — Bring A Trailer

Pricing

Pricing is a significant consideration when comparing these two models. When new, the 350Z was priced competitively, starting at under $27,000 for the base model and going up to over $35,000 for higher trims and special editions. Today, used 350Zs can be found in a wide price range, depending on their condition, mileage, and specific model year, typically ranging from $8,000 to $15,000.

The 370Z, reflecting its advancements and improved features, had a higher starting price when it was released. Base models started around $30,000, with higher trims and the Nismo variant reaching upwards of $45,000 when it was last on sale. Currently, used 370Zs are available in a broad range, from about $15,000 for older or higher-mileage models to over $30,000 for newer or low-mileage examples.

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350Z Vs. 370Z: Which Is Better?

The question of which is better, the 350Z or 370Z, ultimately depends on what you’re looking for in a sports car. The 350Z, with its square-jaw styling and raw, unfiltered driving experience, offers a great balance of performance and affordability. It’s an excellent entry point into the world of sports cars, providing a nostalgic charm and straightforward performance. The ideal 350Z would be a clean, low-mileage car sporting a Track Pack option with features like high-performance Brembo brakes. The 2005 Nissan 350Z Coupe 35th Anniversary Edition, or any Nismo variant, would also be a desirable platform. But be wary of the beaters.

The Nissan 370Z stands out as the superior choice for those seeking more power, refined design, and modern amenities. Its enhanced performance, improved interior, and additional technological features make it a more well-rounded and enjoyable car for both daily driving and spirited weekends on the track. The 370Z offers a more advanced and polished experience, reflecting the natural progression of Nissan’s sports car legacy. In this arena, a Nismo model was also offered, but to pinpoint the most distinguished model would be a 2010 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition, or the even more exclusive 50th Anniversary Edition model wearing the signature Peter Brock signature BRE (Brock Racing Enterprises) tribute livery.

Both the 350Z and 370Z have their unique merits and cater to different types of drivers. The 350Z offers a nostalgic charm and straightforward performance, while the 370Z provides a more advanced and polished experience. Whichever model you choose, both embody the spirit of the Z series and deliver the excitement that Nissan’s sports cars are known for.