Nissan 370z
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a proper sports car that delivers raw driving thrills without breaking the bank? The Nissan 370z might be exactly what you’re searching for. This rear wheel drive coupe offers genuine sports car DNA with a naturally aspirated V6 engine, manual gearbox, and classic two-seater layout. It’s the car for enthusiasts who want pure driving enjoyment over modern gadgets.

From the moment you see it parked up, the 370z commands attention. Its aggressive stance and muscular proportions give it serious road presence that competitors like the Toyota GT86 or Mazda MX-5 can’t quite match for sheer visual impact. But the real appeal goes deeper than looks. This is one of the last affordable sports cars with a big, naturally aspirated engine that responds instantly to your right foot.

Driving the 370z is an old school experience in the best possible way. The 3.7-litre V6 delivers power with a satisfying growl, while the rear wheel drive setup rewards skilled drivers with engaging handling. It’s not the most refined sports car you can buy, but that’s part of its charm. While newer alternatives might offer better fuel economy or more tech, the 370z provides something increasingly rare: pure, unfiltered driving excitement at a price that won’t require a lottery win.

What's the Nissan 370z Like to Drive?

The heart of the Nissan 370z is its naturally aspirated 3.7-litre V6 engine producing 328 horsepower. This substantial power output launches the car from 0-60mph in just 5.1 seconds with the manual gearbox. The engine loves to rev and delivers its power in a linear, predictable way that turbocharged alternatives can’t match. Peak torque of 270 lb-ft arrives at 5,200rpm, encouraging you to keep the revs high for maximum performance.

Where the 370z truly excels is in its driving dynamics. This is a proper rear wheel drive sports coupe with perfectly balanced weight distribution and sharp, communicative steering. The suspension is firm but controlled, offering excellent body control through corners while filtering out the worst road imperfections. The manual gearbox shifts with mechanical precision, and the limited slip differential helps put power down effectively. It’s a car that rewards driving skill and provides genuine feedback through every control.

How Comfortable Is the Nissan 370z?

Step inside and the 370z reveals its age with an interior that feels distinctly retro compared to modern sports cars. The dashboard layout is functional but lacks the premium materials and cutting edge tech you might expect. The seats are supportive and well bolstered for spirited driving, though taller drivers might find headroom tight with the roof sloping down dramatically. Build quality is solid rather than spectacular.

The driving position is excellent once you’re settled in, with all controls falling naturally to hand. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, electric windows, and a basic infotainment system, though it lacks smartphone integration found in newer rivals. Road noise is noticeable at motorway speeds, and the firm suspension means you’ll feel most road surfaces. This isn’t a car designed for luxury, but rather for connecting driver and machine in the most direct way possible.

The Nissan 370z succeeds brilliantly at being an old school sports car in an increasingly digital world. Its naturally aspirated V6 engine and rear wheel drive chassis deliver genuine thrills that many modern alternatives can’t match. The steering feel, engine note, and overall driving experience remain authentic and engaging even by today’s standards.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Is the Nissan 370z Expensive to Run?

As a performance focused sports car, the 370z comes with appropriately sporty running costs. Real world fuel consumption typically ranges from 25-30 mpg depending on how enthusiastically you drive. The large V6 engine means road tax falls into higher bands, and insurance groups reflect its performance credentials. Parts and servicing costs are reasonable for a sports car, though performance tyres can be expensive to replace.

The 370z holds its value relatively well thanks to its enthusiast following and increasingly rare naturally aspirated engine. While the initial purchase price may seem high compared to mainstream cars, you’re buying into a niche that appreciates authentic driving experiences. With car finance options available, monthly payments can make ownership more accessible than the list price suggests. Regular maintenance is crucial for reliability, but the mechanically simple V6 engine has proven durable over time.

Nissan 370z Practicality & Boot Space

For a two-seater sports car, the 370z offers reasonable practicality within its limitations. The 200-litre boot can accommodate a weekend bag or modest weekly shopping, though the narrow opening restricts what you can fit. Inside the cabin, storage is minimal with just small door pockets and a central cubby. The passenger seat can fold forward to extend luggage space for longer items if needed.

This is clearly a car designed for weekend drives and track days rather than family duties. If you need to carry more than one passenger regularly, you’ll need to look elsewhere among used Nissan cars like the practical Qashqai or family friendly Note. For couples or individuals who prioritise driving enjoyment over utility, the 370z provides just enough space for essentials while keeping weight and complexity to a minimum.

The Nissan 370z stands as one of the last affordable sports cars built around traditional values. Its powerful naturally aspirated V6 engine, rear wheel drive layout, and manual gearbox create a driving experience that’s becoming increasingly rare. While it may lack the refinement and efficiency of newer alternatives, it compensates with character and authentic sports car thrills.

You choose the 370z because you prioritise driving excitement over everyday practicality. Its aggressive styling, engaging dynamics, and distinctive exhaust note make every journey memorable. For enthusiasts seeking genuine sports car DNA without exotic car prices, the 370z represents excellent value. It’s a car that rewards passionate drivers and stands out in a world of increasingly sanitised performance vehicles, especially when considering cars under £30,000 in the sports car segment.