First Look: 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster
Nissan 370Z Roadster, originally uploaded by www.Dream-car.tv
The photos are out of the new Nissan 370Z Roadster, and while many enthusiasts prefer the all out masculinity of the coupe… the drop top really isn’t half bad. In fact, it is not bad at all, it is rather quite improved over the original 350Z convertible.
The Changes from the Old
Originally Uploaded by cienporcienmotor
The new 2010 370Z Roadster by Nissan carries a presence with it that signifies class and finesse. While the casual enthusiast may not notice a lot of change from the 350Z roadster, there is. The top itself is made of a much higher grade of canvas, rather than vinyl. The top has also been reconfigured to follow the smooth transitions of its sleek, sexy body. In other words, the top looks as if it was designed for the body, rather than as an afterthought.
How many times do you ever see a 350Z with its top up on a nice day. Not often, and there is good reason for it. It just does not quite look as good. Well, many convertibles don’t look as good, but the new 370Z roadster is a slight exception to this rule. The canvas top now follows the same basic slope as the coupe, allowing a gradual transition from canvas to metal, which offers a much less clumsy overall appeal.
The roadster also has a slightly adjusted rear-end, which offers a more soft and rounded muscularity that compliments the Z when covered or topless. It has also had some improvements on refinement and insulation towards the interior. A new inside liner has been put in place, which not only looks better, but functions better at removing unwanted road noise. This offers a slightly better atmosphere from which to pump out your tunes with the optional Bose performance audio system, or to take on the blustery, cold winter weather of the North.
The Similarities of the New
Originally uploaded by www.Dream-car.tv
You’ll be happy to know that this is where the changes stop, and its similarities to the coupe begins. The engine remains the current 3.7-liter V-6 with 332 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. I’m sure you are wondering how much added weight the roadster adds to the coupe, and I’m happy to report that Nissan says its 194 pounds of added reinforcement/safety features, will only add 0.2 or 0.4 seconds to its already quick 0-60 in 5.1 seconds (Edmunds.com road test).
The roadster has a remarkable presence on the road, which does not offer any excuses for its topless condition. Yes, the true hardcore driver may notice a reduction in its prowess over bumpy terrain, but for the average enthusiast, the Z is plenty capable and fun to drive. While the chassis has been de-tuned slightly to keep the ride comfortable, it still comes with its basic sport-tuned suspension, SynchroRev Match shifting, and 18-inch wheels.
Starting at $37,500, the new Z roadster offers little loss in performance and style, for the optimum gain of open air motoring. This is one of those rare times in automotive history, where the convertible option actually offers a win-win situation for the consumer. Go test drive one for yourself, they are scheduled to be on the lots by this coming month (September 2009)… just in time for those Fall road trips through the Aspen trees.
