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Nissan Australia released the 2007 model year 350Z with a more powerful,
next-generation engine, revised exterior styling and new exterior colour
palette.
The updates to the 350Z reinforce its credentials as a pure sports car with
thrilling and involving performance and a more dynamic driving experience.
At the heart of the 2007 model year 350Z is Nissan’s award winning next
generation engine - designated VQ35HR - with nearly 80 percent of major parts
redesigned it provides improved acceleration and overall power for enhanced
driving pleasure. Maximum power output has risen from 221kW to 230kW on the back
of the changes to the engine. Peak torque output has also increased from 353Nm
to 358Nm and the maximum engine speed has also increased by 500rpm to
7500rpm.
To achieve the additional performance, a dual intake system has been fitted
and the variable valve timing system has a wider range of operation, plus the
addition of a common length exhaust manifold reduces back pressure. Those
changes combine to boost low and mid-range torque.
In order to achieve the higher rev limit, the crank journal and crank pin
have increased in size. At the bottom of the engine, a ladder frame has been
added to stiffen the crank and reduce vibration.
The introduction of a second knock sensor, an asymmetric piston pattern,
improved cylinder cooling and iridium spark plugs will combine to improve the
efficiency of the ignition cycle, while an increase in compression ratio from
10.3 to 10.6 has liberated more top end power. Despite all these changes, weight
and fuel consumption remain unchanged, but the engine’s centre of gravity has
been lowered by 15mm.
To accommodate the new engine the bonnet has been discreetly redesigned and
is now reminiscent of the first generation 240Z, thanks to a stylish ‘power
bulge’.
Three new exterior colours will also be offered. Solar Orange is a striking
shade but also contains a subtle green “flip” which can be seen in soft light
and gives the car a surprising tone, while a new grey – Carbon Silver - and San
Marino Blue complete the colour line-up. On the inside, there are larger head
rests with active restraints, to minimize the chances of neck injury in the
event of a rear impact.
Standard features include composite carbon-fibre drive shaft, traction
control system, viscous limited-slip rear differential, electronic drive-by-wire
throttle, dual outlet exhaust and vehicle dynamic control (VDC) on Track
variants. An optional five-speed automatic transmission with manual mode and
Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) is available on all automatic variants.
Independent multi-link suspension front and rear with a front strut tower
brace and an integrated rear strut tower brace combined with front and rear
stabilizer bars guarantees sure-footed handling and dynamics.
All models wear 18-inch five-spoke aluminium alloy wheels with upgraded
Bridgestone Potenza tyres for 2007 for increased on-road refinement.
Standard interior features include heated leather sports seats, automatic
climate control air-conditioning, Bose 240 watt sound system with seven speakers
including a sub-woofer, power windows and heated exterior door mirrors, steering
wheel mounted audio and cruise controls and a three-bay gauge cluster for oil
pressure, voltmeter and trip computer.
Pricing on the 2007 model year 350Z Coupe now starts at $62,990* and $67,990*
(manual models), while the Roadster is now available for $73,990*. On models
with an optional automatic transmission the price increases by $2,000.
Nissan’s managing director and chief executive officer, Shinya Hannya,
commented on the update to the company’s halo model in the range; ”The changes
are designed to not only improve on the performance of the 350Z but build on its
reputation as one of our best performance sports cars”.
*All prices quoted are recommended retail pricing and do not include dealer
delivery and on-road costs.
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