2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster
The New Z Roadster Scores
Following up on last year’s introduction of the redesigned 370Z Coupe, Nissan has brought forth its drop-top sibling, the 370Z Roadster for 2010. All the improvements that were incorporated in the Coupe are also found in the Roadster.
Like the Coupe, the 2010 Roadster has more design detail in it than its predecessor, the 350Z. Sharp creases on the hood, arrowhead lights and a jaunty kick-up over the rear wheels makes the new Z more visually exciting. Additionally, the convertible top looks more fluid now, and better complements the overall styling.
Although retractable hardtops are popular, Nissan stayed with the soft top on the new Z. The cloth roof is less expensive, and helps keep the price of the Z down. It also weighs less, and gives the owner more trunk space. Having a usable trunk (4.2 cu.-ft.) is a godsend in the Z, since there isn’t much storage area in the cockpit. The glove box is small and the tiny cubby behind the passenger’s seat is hard to access. That leaves just the bin in the armrest to stow a camera.
Really tall drivers may find the legroom snug in the 2010 Z. It has four inches less wheelbase than its predecessor. However, those around six-foot should be okay. External visibility is still not great. A high beltline and the large outside mirror hinder the driver’s view. And backing out of a parking lot, with the top up, is really a crapshoot.
Nissan powers its Z models with its splendid 3.7-liter V-6 that features the automaker’s variable valve timing and lift control system, called VVEL. This motor generates 332 hp, and 270 lb.-ft. of torque. The V-6 launches the Z with gusto, and pulls well up to the 7500-rpm redline. Sixty mph will come up quickly, in a little over five seconds.
Teamed with the V-6 is a standard 6-speed manual gearbox or an optional 7-speed automatic. The manual has a slick system, called SynchroRev Match that blips the accelerator to match revs on downshifts, so you don’t need to heel-and-toe. The automatic, like the one in my test car, has a sport mode and paddle shifters. I found it super smooth and very responsive.
Like the 370Z coupe, the new Roadster boasts of increased body strength. Nissan improved rigidity by reinforcing the A-pillars and the side sills. You will be hard pressed to feel cowl shake going over railroad tracks. At the same time, the 2010 model weighs roughly 100 lbs. less than its predecessor. Nissan designers used aluminum in the hood, doors, and trunk lid.
The Roadster’s driving dynamics have reached new heights in the 2010 model. A new double-wishbone front suspension, along with improved steering system, makes the Z a more nimble sports car. Turn-in response, when cornering, is sharper than it used to be, and the new Z displays tenacious grip negotiating twisty roads. Furthermore, drivers get a bonus with a ride that is more compliant now. Yet, noise suppression still has a way to go. I heard more road-rumble than I expected cruising along with the top up.
Nissan offers the 370Z in two versions, the standard model and the upscale Touring. Buyers can also order a “sport’ package that includes 19-inch wheels, a limited-slip differential, and the SynchroRev Match system, and/or a navigation unit. Pricing for the 370Z Roadster starts at $37,690, which makes it a bargain in its class.
Snapshot Review:
Sporty Styling
Excellent Power
Sharp Handling
Bargain Price
