The 2012 Nissan 370Z is proof that Japanese car manufacturers can indeed build more than regular cars. The Nissan 370Z, in fact, ranks well in the list of affordable high performance cars.
Its looks are truly iconic and the car is indeed worthy of being sought after.
High-performance car enthusiasts will certainly appreciate the 370Z.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Coupe | Base Price: $32,280.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 19 gallons (71L) | MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy |
| Length: 167.2 in. (424.6 cm) | Wheel Base: 100.4 in. (255 cm) |
| Height: 51.8 in. (131.5 cm) | Width: 72.6 in. (184.4 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3245 lbs (1471 kg) | Ground Clearance: NA |
| Luggage Capacity: 6.9 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 2 people |
| Engine: 3.7L 24 Valve V6 DOHC | Compression Ratio: 11: 1 |
| Horsepower: 332 HP | Max RPM: 7000 RPM |
| Torque: 270 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Manual |
| 0-60 mph: 4.6 seconds | Maximum Speed: NA |
| Option:370Z Touring | MSRP: $36,980; MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy |
| Option:370Z NISMO | MSRP: $41,660; MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy |
| Option:370Z Convertible | MSRP: $40,500; MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy |
Engine
The 2012 370Z comes standard with a V6 3.7 liter engine that delivers 332 horsepower and 270 lbs/ft of torque. The standard model comes with a 6-speed manual transmission but prospective owners can choose the optional 7-speed automatic transmission to transfer the power.
What is most interesting about the engine of the 370Z include its Downshift Rev and the SynchroRev system? After changing gears, these systems match the engine speed to the new gear by automatically adjusting the engine speed. This clever feature helps the engine deliver optimum power all the time.
Performance
The 370Z is indeed powerful and the transmission undeniably smooth. Driving the 370Z can make you feel that you can conquer the road. Sure there are more powerful engines, but what makes you feel even better is its competitive price.
According to the EPA, the 370Z with the automatic transmission has a fuel economy rating of 26 mpg for highway and 19 mpg for city driving. The model with a manual transmission has a rating of 26 mpg for highway and 18 mpg for city driving.
The 370Z has good brakes and handles well. We can definitely say that this Nissan is nimble. It definitely has the poise of a sports car with all the essential dynamics. It gives great value for the money.
Exterior
Curves on the 370Z are inspired by the looks of the 240Z, only with a wider stance. By the first glance, you will definitely have the impression that this Z is poised to give you exceptional performance on the road.
Interior
The first noticeable thing about the Z’s interior is the quality of material that Nissan used. Its cockpit is racing inspired and its seats are snug. Although we give Nissan credit for it, we believe that taller drivers may find the snug seats uncomfortable.
Another drawback is that the cabin is not the quietest in its class. These are the areas where Nissan can further improve the 2012 370Z.
Safety
It is unlikely for a sports car not to undergo crash tests and this is apparent in the 370Z. The federal government and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety cannot provide details because they have not crash tested this car.
Nevertheless, the 2012 370Z has the standard safety features such as traction control, anti-lock brakes, side airbags (front seat mounted), supplemental front airbags (dual stage), and side-impact roof mounted airbags. Prospective car owners can go for the optional rear view camera if they find difficulties about rear visibility.
Pros & Cons
The 2012 370Z definitely gives great value for your money, better than other affordable sports cars. Braking and handling is excellent, it has clever transmission features, a powerful V6, and premium quality interior.
The 370Z does not have the quietest cabin in its class. In certain situations, the 370Z seems to lack the refinement present in other sports cars.
The cabin noise should not bother you too much along with the “unrefined” character, which is an isolated flaw. For its performance and looks, the 2012 370Z is definitely a good choice.
Competition
There are a number of other high end vehicles that may be compared to the 370Z, these include the BMW 328i (MSRP $38,700; 18 city / 28 hwy), the base Chevrolet Corvette V8 (MSRP $49,600; 16 city / 26 hwy), and the Mercedes Benz C Class Inline 4 (MSRP $37,220; 21 city / 31 hwy).
Overall Rating
74 out of 100
What others say:
“Performance per dollar, the 2012 Nissan 370Z is a bargain, and it’s quick enough in absolute terms to reach toward the domain of much more expensive sports cars.”Car Connection
“Base, Roadster, or NISMO, 370Z is stable, controlled, and balanced. All models carve corners with poise exhibited by cars that cost thousands more. Steering feel is direct and responsive. NISMO and models equipped with the Sport Package and manual transmission include Nissan’s new “SynchroRev Match” system, which automatically raises engine speed when downshifting the transmission.”Consumer Guide
“The Z two-seater shares mechanical components with the Infiniti G coupe, including a wonderfully strong and smooth V6.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“If you’re looking for seat-of-your-pants performance in a sexy coupe that won’t break the bank, take a spin in a 2012 Nissan 370Z Coupe. Open-air fans will love the 370Z Roadster version.”KBB
“Excellent handling and braking; nifty rev-matching manual transmission; powerful V6; compliant highway ride; high-quality interior; relatively low price.”Edmunds
