2020 Nissan 370Z

Commending it's 50th Anniversary this year, the "Z" brand has an extraordinary heritage behind it and has constantly doled out good sports cars under its insignia. The 2020 Nissan 370Z, remains for the most part unaltered from 2019 other than the expansion of a New 50th Anniversary trim. This implies the Nissan is as yet a Front Engine Rear Wheel Drive vehicle that comes powered by a 3.7L V6 engine, generating 332 ponies and 272lbs.- ft. of torque.

The brand needs to resuscitate the 370Z with a fresh new design and some more refinement to its V6 engine, oh and a special mention to the outdated interior as well. It is one of those cars that fall under the entry-level sports car segment. The popularity of the 370Z is clearly due to its docile naturally aspirated V6 which can unleash exponential performance on some fine-tuning. It is very easy to spot with a lot of street cred which makes it the favorite of tuners and JDM loyalists.

The 370Z is now offered in 4 trims with a new addition to the previous year which is the 50th Anniversary Trim. The availability of a manual option does bring a smile to the face of every driver that prefers the old-school drive dynamics with the least electronic interference. 

The Anniversary Trim gets exclusive design badging and racing graphics along with the seats and tachometer to complement the exteriors. There are few other trim specific features that pay homage to the 50 years of the Z-series.

Trim	370Z	Sport	50th Anniversary Silver/Black, White/Red	Sport Touring
MSRP (Manual)	$30,090	$33,820	$36,420	-
MSRP (Automatic)	$31,490	-	$37,670	$39,490
Key Features	HID Bi-Functional Xenon Auto On/Off Headlights with LED DRL’s	Includes 370Z Features Plus these	Includes 370Z Sport Features Plus these	Includes 370Z Sport Touring Features Plus these
	18” Aluminum Alloy Wheels	19” forged Alloys by RAYS	19” 50th Anniversary Forged Alloys by Rays	Nissan Voice Recognition with Bluetooth Audio Streaming
	LED Taillights	Viscous Limited Slip Differential	Unique Exterior badging	Sirius XM Traffic and Weather with a 3-month access
	6 Speaker AM/FM/CD system with AUX/USB/Bluetooth connectivity	Nissan Sport Brakes with aluminum calipers	Unique Exterior racing-inspired graphics	7” Touchscreen Infotainment System
	One-Touch Auto Up/Down Power Windows	Bose Audio System	50th Anniversary Edition Tachometer	Nissan Hard Drive Navigation System
	Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Start	Front Chin Aero Deflector and Rear Spoiler	50th Anniversary Leather-Appointed Seats with Synthetic Suede Inserts	Aluminum Trimmed Pedals

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The Sport trim fits the tag for all those that love to have control over their cars. The manual transmission with a few additional aero features and improved differentials enhances the drive experience in the Sport trim when compared to that on the Base trim.

The 2020 Nissan 370Z does have a lot going on in its powerhouse in the engine bay. The 3.7L V6 does have various Nissan specs in it which make it much better like the Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL). VVEL encourages this unit to accomplish a superior torque curve. This likewise makes the throttle reaction crispier. The expansion in low-end torque makes the 370Z significantly more responsive at lower speeds.

The continuously variable valve timing control system(CVTCS) helps with time the valves are opened and closed. Generally, if valves open for a shorter time it increases efficiency and when valves open for a longer time it improves performance. Most traditional engines go for either one of these timing and settle for any one aspect. The V6 on the 370Z gets the best of both worlds.

The manual transmission goes a long way in controlling the mechanism of the car and is equally engaging. With the rev-matching feature, gear shifts feel a lot better and smoother. The auto transmission is smooth enough to get things done with good shifting ratios ensuring the best performance.

Models	Nissan 370Z	Ford Mustang EcoBoost	Dodge Challenger SXT	Chevrolet Camaro 1LT
MSRP	$30,090	$26,670	$27,845	$27,590
Engine	3.7L naturally-aspirated V6	2.3L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine	3.6-Liter naturally-aspirated V6	3.0L naturally-aspirated V6
Transmission	6-speed manual	6-speed manual	8-speed automatic	6-speed manual
Horsepower	332 hp@ 7000rpm	310 hp @ 5500 rpm	305 hp @ 6350 rpm	335 hp @ 6800rpm
Torque	270 ft-lbs.@ 5200rpm	350 ft-lbs. @ 3000rpm	268 lb.-ft. @ 4800rpm	284 lb.-ft. @ 5300rpm

There are manual transmissions as standard on all, with the exception of the Dodge. It's the Camaro that takes the battle to the 370Z as far as numbers, besting the Fairlady by the littlest of edges. The EcoBoost takes the third spot on the podium leaving the Challenger in the last place.

Acceleration

The 3.7-liter motor is among the biggest in the entry-level segment. It pulls forcefully from 0 to as far as possible up to the 7500 RPM redline. The speeding up is very solid, more grounded than practically the entirety of the opposition. The 370Z is faster than a large number of its adversaries in both 60 MPH and quarter-mile mark.

It is easier to get more performance out of the manual transmission due to the control over the revs and RPMs in the engine. The automatic, however, is able in its own self to ooze performance out of the V6. The rev-matching feature is more of a boon here enabling the perfect shifts all-time every time.

Models	Nissan 370Z	Ford Mustang EcoBoost	Dodge Challenger SXT	Chevrolet Camaro
0-60 MPH	5.0	5.0	6.3	5.1
Quarter mile	13.1	13	14.8	13.7
Engine	3.7L naturally-aspirated V6	2.3L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine	3.6-Liter naturally-aspirated V6	3.0L naturally-aspirated V6
Emission (Tons/yr. of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year)	8.9	7.1	N/A	8.9

The EcoBoost engine in the Mustang has a lot more torque and it shows, propelling the car to the speeds of 60 MPH along with the 370Z. However, the quarter-mile mark is where the Mustang outshines the 370Z. The Camaro falls one-tenth of a second short in keeping up with the leaders here in the 0-60 mark while the Challenger is left behind eating dust.

Braking

Nissan 370Z has all the aspects in order to make it a good performer and the brakes follow suit. The brake pedal isn't the best in the segment rather soft than firm. However, they are responsive and get the job done rather well.

There are 12.6 inches vented discs in the front and 12.1 inch vented discs in the rear. With active brake assist the driver has ample help in case of emergency braking. ABS and Electronic brake distribution further ensure smooth and apt braking on the tracks or the streets all the same.

Model	Nissan 370Z	Ford Mustang EcoBoost	Dodge Challenger SXT	Chevrolet Camaro
Brake Front (in.)	12.6	12.6	12.6	N/A
Brake Rear (in.)	12.1	12.6	12.6	N/A
Curb Weight (lbs.)	3333	3532	3894	3448
60-0 MPH (ft.)	113	128	117	124

The size of brakes on all the cars here is almost similar. Nissan is the first to come to a complete stop followed by the Challenger SXT. The EcoBoost is third on the list which is a shocker as it is lighter than the Challenger and should've performed better. The Camaro travels the farthest after the brakes are applied.

Ride and Handling

The 370Z drives and handles like a legitimate sports car. The drive element of the Coupe remains more mechanical than electronic. There aren't many electronic assist features that ensure an engaging drive. The steering wheel is responsive and transfers enough feedback to the driver. This makes overtaking on the streets easy and going around the corners even more fun. 

Aside from the base trim, the vehicle gets a restricted slip differential which drives ups the enjoyment factor. The V6 feels ready to get going at any point be it on the tracks or the streets, it can run! Flooring the gas pedal makes the engine come alive and its roars and grunts can be both heard and felt in the cabin. Overall the car has very low body rolls and feels planted during the entire drive.

Performance and fuel economy are two sides of a coin, they don't go well together and one is compromised to achieve the other. Such is the case with the 370Z the engine feels more biased on the performance aspect and the MPG numbers are proof of the same. 

Model	Nissan 370Z	Ford Mustang EcoBoost	Dodge Challenger SXT	Chevrolet Camaro
MPG (city)	17	21	19	20
MPG (highway)	26	31	30	30
MPG (combined)	20	25	23	23
Fuel Tank Capacity (Gallons)	19.0	15.5	18.5	19.0
Range (City/Hwy) in miles	323/494	326/481	352/555	380/570

The name EcoBoost carries well with the Fuel efficiency that the Mustang returns. It leads the segment in terms of MPG numbers but the low fuel tank capacity compromises the Mustangs range. The Camaro stands a close second and has a bigger fuel tank which gives it the highest range out of the entire line up.

The Challenger comes in the third spot here with the 370Z taking up the last spot, housing the biggest engine does have consequences.

The 370Z comes can house 2 passengers in the front seats. Generally, in 2 door coupes, the rear seats are realistically unusable. This car does not target people looking to buy family cars for the very same reason. This sports coupe is for individuals that want an exciting ride for mundane everyday commutes or just for the performance aspect.

The materials used in the Coupe does give the car a value for the price. If luxury is what one wants, this won't fit your memo. It is a practical sports car with bolstered front seats that are comfortable and confident enough to provide the driver and passenger good torso support.

Model	Nissan 370Z	Ford Mustang EcoBoost	Dodge Challenger SXT	Chevrolet Camaro
Passenger capacity	2	4	4	4
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	38.2/54.4/42.9	37.6/56.3/44.5	39.3/58.5/42	38.5/N/A/43.9
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	N/A	34.8/52.2/30.6	37.1/53.9/33.1	N/A

The 370Z is the only car that has a seating capacity of 2. Considering just the front seats The EcoBoost offers the most legroom while the Challenger has the most shoulder and head-room available. The Camaro takes the second spot in terms of legroom available while the 370Z offers the least space in the front out of all the competition.

Interior Features

370Z comes with plenty of features on the inside despite being a sports car. Some of the most noteworthy features include the following

• Tilt adjust leather-wrapped Steering wheel with mounted audio controls
• Auto temperature control with in-cabin microfilter
• Power windows with one-touch up-down feature
• Nissan intelligent key with push-button start
• Auto-dimming IRVM with Homelink universal transceiver
• 4-way power-adjustable front seat
• Leather-appointed heated seats
• Cruise control and rearview camera
• Leather-wrapped gear shift knob and parking brake lever

Cargo Capacity

The trunk in the 370Z goes on to prove the point that this isn't a car one buys for space and utility aspects. The 370Z is low on boot space and can accommodate 1 medium-sized suitcase and a laptop bag adequately which does make it a good daily commuter.

In the cabin, there are cuppy holders and the storage in the door sills is also good enough. The glove compartment has enough space to hold a few essentials. A sanitizer and a tissue box can easily fit.

Model	Nissan 370Z	Ford Mustang EcoBoost	Dodge Challenger SXT	Chevrolet Camaro
Cargo Volume with rear seats up (ft.3)	6.9	13.5	16.2	9.1

Challenger effectively utilizes its enormous measurements here, offering the biggest boot in the lineup. The Mustang follows behind intently, with a decent cargo storage and is then trailed by its most outstanding adversary, the Camaro. Nissan offers the least cargo storage area among all its rivals.

Infotainment

The 370Z comes with a touchscreen infotainment system that takes a nod to some modernization in the car. The 7inch touch info system offers a user-friendly UI with good visibility in harsh sunlight as well. It does miss out on essential features like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay which is now standard on most entry-level cars. 

There are a few other features like USB and aux connectivity along with DVD playback. Hey 370Z, 2009 called, they want their DVD player back! Well on the upside there is Bluetooth connectivity so streaming your favorite songs is possible. Also, the Bose 8-speaker set up is amazing and does enhance the music experience.

Infotainment Features

• 7" Touchscreen Infotainment system with Nissan Voice Recognition
• SiriusXM radio with traffic and Weather subscription
• Bose 8 Speaker Audio system
• MP3/WMA/DVD playback
• USB and Aux inputs
• Bluetooth telephony and music streaming

The 370Z has a unique design to it which differentiates it from the lot. It is one of the most good-looking affordable cars currently available. The fastback styling does bode well with this coupe. Overall the 370Z does look the way it did when its first model rolled out on the streets in 2009.

It has been a rather short car with low wheelbase and length giving it all the right dynamics for better handling. The short length increases its practicality in the city with the ability to squeeze into tight spots.

Model	Nissan 370Z	Ford Mustang EcoBoost	Dodge Challenger SXT	Chevrolet Camaro
Curb weight (lbs.)	3333	3532	3894	3354
Length(in)	167.5	188.5	197.9	188.3
Width(in)	72.6	75.4	75.7	74.7
Height(in)	51.8	54.3	57.5	53.1
Ground clearance (in)	4.8	5.7	5.2	N/A
Wheelbase (in)	100.4	107.1	116.2	110.7
Track width (in) F/R	61/62.8	62.3/64.9	63.4/63.8	62.5/63.7

The Challenger pulls the most metal and hence is the heaviest and the biggest in here. The Chevy is rather similar to the marginally bigger Mustang as far as measurements. The Camaro, holds an agreeable center ground here, being neither small nor huge. Nissan is the smallest and the lightest out of the lot.

Exterior Features

Speaking of the features, there are plenty of highlights on the outside of the 370Z coupe that'll keep you hooked to it. Some of the most standout highlights includes the following listed features

• Variable intermittent windshield wipers
• Auto On-Off Bi-functional HID Xenon headlights with LED DRL's
• LED Taillights
• Body-colored powered, heated ORVM's
• Rear window defroster
• 19" forged alloys by Rays
• Rear spoiler

Nissan 370Z is yet to undergo any crash tests by NHTSA and IIHS due to which the safety certification of the 370Z is not available. But the aluminum and steel chassis increases to the structural framework. There are features like airbags, traction control, and brake assist which do enhance the drive experience, apart from this the driver has to be engaged during the drive. 

Safety Features

• Dual-stage supplemental front airbags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors
• Driver and passenger seat-mounted side-impact supplemental airbags
• Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental airbags for occupant head protection
• Vehicle Dynamic Control with Traction Control System
• Seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
• 3-point ALR/ELR passenger seat belt system (ELR for the driver)
• Active head restraints
• Energy-absorbing steering column
• Top tether anchors
• Zone body construction with front and rear crumple zones
• Hood buckling creases
• Aluminum side-door guard beams
• Tire pressure monitoring system

Nissan 370Z vs Dodge Challenger

The All-American Challenger has every bit of muscle both in the design and performance. It offers better seating capacity and comfort along with more features that are standard. In contrast, the Nissan can seat 2 people and lacks various essential features due to its outdated appeal.

The Challenger goes better on straights with a lot of power, while the 370Z has better handling and control. These two cars appeal to crowds that are poles apart in terms of choices. So whichever one supports, both these cars are among the best offerings in this price segment. 

Nissan 370Z vs Ford Mustang

The Mustang is mated to the EcoBoost engine which makes it extensively lighter, inversely offering better execution and mileage too. Generally speaking, the Mustang is a superior alternative. It has better torque and manages to keep up with a more powerful 370Z. 

The Nissan, however, offers better drive dynamics with a much more mechanical feel to it. Again two totally polar crowds that support their individual preference. The EcoBoost is a much efficient option here.

With speculations about the new Z coming out later this year becoming more eminent, this might as well be the final rodeo of the beloved 370Z. The 37)Z has been relevant in spite of being the outdated car from 2009. The mechanical aspect of the car does add to the appeal the car has on people, garnering a loyal fan base even. 

The 370Z makes up for its outdated design and interiors with the superior drive it offers. At the price tag put upon it, the 370Z is probably one of the best cars available in the market. If a new Z does release at the end of this year, the 370Z will surely go down in the hall of fame and be considered an icon of the decade.