Following the official unveiling of the Nissan 370Z at the 2008 Greater LA Auto Show, a Nismo version was unveiled in 2009 at the New York Auto Show. The Nismo, currently at the top end of the 370Z model lineup, is a small and lightweight two-seater that offers an invigorating driving experience. Surprisingly, the Nissan 370Z is underrated, and even when the age shows in its design, it still has a few tricks left for its last outing in the sixth generation.Although the roadster version has been axed for 2020, the 3.7-liter V6 power plant remains as responsive as ever. Apart from the strong powertrain, it also has a user-friendly infotainment system and a set of electronic wonders that protects it from theft. However, some sports cars have the edge over the 370Z Nismo in terms of fuel efficiency, storage capacity, and safety features. Here are what we love about the iconic Nissan and the five sports cars we would rather have.
10 We Love: User-Friendly Infotainment
Although many competitors offer infotainment systems with more modern features, one of the reasons why we love the Nissan 370Z Nismo is the user-friendly infotainment system. The user interface is on a 7-inch VGA touchscreen display from which multimedia, entertainment, and other car functions are controlled.
You can enjoy smart device connectivity through Bluetooth, auxiliary input jack, or USB while SiriusXM satellite radio supplies nonstop entertainment for your journey. Real-time traffic updates are displayed by SiriusXM Traffic, while an eight-speaker Bose sound system provides premium quality sound and active sound enhancement.
9 We Love: Strong Powertrain
Under the hood of the Nissan 370Z Nismo lies a 3.7-liter VQ37VHR V6 engine that motivates the small car. An output of 359 hp at 7400 rpm and a peak torque of 276 lb-ft is delivered to the rear wheels through a standard 6-speed manual transmission.
A seven-speed shiftable automatic transmission is available for extra money for those who are not fans of three pedals. The 370Z Nismo accelerates from 0-60 mph in about 5 seconds, has a top speed of 155 mph, and corners superbly thanks to a unique suspension.
8 We Love: Anti Theft Features
To guard against any unauthorized access or outright theft of the car, Nissan has installed some high-tech security features in the 370Z Nismo. It comes with a perimeter alarm, an engine immobilizer, and a valet mode that disables all but the car's lock and unlock features.
The perimeter alarm is there to alert you if someone tries to force entry into the car or attempts to start the engine. As a last line of defense, an engine immobilizer is wired to the car's ignition system to stop the engine from starting if an unauthorized key is used.
7 We Love: Smart Entry/Push Button Start
With the smart entry system, you can unlock your 370Z Nismo and enter without the need to touch the key. When you stand next to your car, a sensor detects your smart key on you and unlocks the door when you press the unlock button.
The intelligent key can also be used to lock or unlock the vehicle from a distance of not more than 33 feet. To use the push-button start or stop function, have the smart key with you inside the vehicle, press the start button and the engine will start or stop.
6 We Love: Competitive Warranty Coverage
Many will agree that the Nissan 370Z is a mixed bag, but it has a well-balanced warranty coverage that is at par with what rivals like the 2022 Subaru BRZ. Basic Warranty coverage is for three years or 36000 miles, while the drivetrain covers five years or 60000 miles.
For the first five years or as many miles as you can cover within that time, your 370Z Nismo is covered for corrosion. Although no complimentary maintenance is offered, you will enjoy three years or 36000 miles of roadside assistance.
5 We’d Rather Have: 2021 Chevrolet Camaro
The Chevrolet Camaro is currently in its sixth generation, which was officially unveiled to the public in May 2015 for the 2016 model year. The Camaro is an excellent performance-oriented four-seater sports car built on the GM Alpha platform it shares with the Cadillac ATS.
Closest to the 370Z Nismo in price is the 2SS model, which is powered by a 6.2-liter V8 churning out 455 hp and 455 lb-ft of torque. Despite being cheaper than the Nissan, the Camaro comes with power front seats, a heads-up display, and cruise control.
4 We’d Rather Have: 2021 Ford Mustang
Currently one of the longest-running nameplates globally, the four-seater Ford Mustang is in its sixth generation, which was unveiled in December 2013. For the 2021 model year, the Mustang, in addition to its very capable powertrains, also boasts several optional performance packages.
Priced at $41,480, the GT Premium trim powered by a 460 hp V8 making 420 lb-ft of torque is way more powerful than the 370Z Nismo. It also comes with real leather upholstery, heated, ventilated, power front seats, selectable drive modes, ambient lighting, and cruise control.
3 We’d Rather Have: 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a lightweight two-seater fun car that impresses with its affordable price tag and a long list of tech features. With prices ranging from $27,825-$35,520, even the top trim is at least $11,000 cheaper than the Nissan 370Z Nismo.
Powered by a 181 hp 2-liter I-4 engine, it boasts better fuel efficiency and more thrilling performance. For stress-free driving, it offers blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive headlights, and lots more.
2 We’d Rather Have: 2020 Fiat 124 Spider
The two-seater Fiat 124 Spider, introduced at the 2015 LA Auto Show as a 2016 model, is built on the Mazda NE/NF platform. For the 2021 model year, the 124 Spider is offered with prices ranging from $26,885 for the base model to $30,88.
Motivated by a 1.4-liter I-4 engine that returns a best-in-class fuel efficiency, the Fiat 124 Spider also has better warranty coverage. Also on offer are features like heated seatbacks and cushions and rain detecting windshield wipers.
1 We’d Rather Have: 2020 Toyota 86
The Toyota 86, a lightweight 2+2 RWD sports car jointly created by Toyota and Subaru, has been around since 2012. First shown at the Tokyo Motor Show in December 2011, the Toyota 86 is an athletic and versatile sports car that impresses with its pocket-friendly price.
Pricing for the top trim starts at $30,825, compared to the Nissan's $46,685, for a car that offers more seating and more storage capacity. In addition to being more fuel-efficient, it also offers a more attractive and well-balanced warranty coverage.