The Nissan Z? series of sporty, affordable performance cars has evolved over decades in numerous ways. However, the Z's designers have steadfastly retained the car's identity as a top-tier sports car that provides the driving fun and grip of European sports cars without the steep sticker price.



A new development in the Nissan Z? legacy is the introduction of the Nissan Z? Roadster models. Models include the 350Z Enthusiast, Touring, and Grand Touring models. Each of these Nissan Z? Roadster models offers variations on the sheer driving pleasure that has captivated Nissan Z? enthusiasts since 1969.

This article will provide comparisons of the Enthusiast, Touring, and Grand Touring Z? Roadster models; however, in order to compare their attributes, it's best to start with the features they share. Under the hood is Nissan's 3.5-liter, dual overhead cam, 24-valve V6 engine, which produces a muscular 306 horsepower at 6,800 rpm for fast starts and plenty of passing power on the open road.

The engine's power output is timed by Nissan's Continually Variable Valve Timing Control System, with hydraulic power on the intake cam and electromagnetic power on the exhaust cam. Governing this V6 power plant is an electronic drive-by-wire throttle. All of this power is transferred via a 6-speed, close-ratio manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission along with an optional, 5-speed automatic with manual shift mode and downshift rev matching.

Exterior highlights distinguish the Z? Roadster, as well. Up front are high-intensity discharge xenon headlights. The LED parking and taillights offer vastly superior response, longevity, and visibility when compared to the incandescent bulbs of the past. All Z? Roadster models come with dual-heated outside mirrors; UV-reducing solar glass windows; an aluminum hood, and comprehensive underbody air flow management to lower drag and optimize fuel economy. The power soft-top convertible deploys and stows under a tonneau cover with the touch of a button.

Inside, the Z? Roadster models feature power everything; a trip computer; automatic temperature control; illuminated cruise and audio controls on the steering wheel; a HomeLink? universal transceiver; two 12-volt power outlets; CD audio systems, and instrumentation in a smart, intuitive layout for easy driver visibility. Nissan Z? Roadster models also feature active head restraints; an energy-absorbing steering column; Nissan's advanced air-bag system with dual-stage supplemental air bags; side-door guard beams, and zone body construction.

Now that we've covered many of the features that the Nissan Z? Roadster Enthusiast, Touring, and Grand Touring models share, let's start comparing them. Please note that each Nissan Z? Roadster model features the attributes of the previously mentioned model, but with enhancements, additional functions, and more equipment.

The Nissan Z? Roadster Enthusiast Model

The Z? Roadster Enthusiast model is designed for Nissan drivers who love the base model Z's estimable virtues, but who want a bit of extra bling and are willing to pay a little extra to get it. Standard on the Enthusiast are traction-enhancing features to provide extra grip through turns, including Nissan's Traction Control System and a viscous limited-slip differential. Inside, the Enthusiast comes with an auto-dimming rear-view mirror and aluminum pedals.

The Nissan Z? Roadster Touring Model

With the Z? Roadster Touring model, Nissan kicks the driving pleasure and amenities up a notch. This Nissan model offers everything that the Enthusiast offers, plus a Bluetooth hands-free phone system; a Bose audio system with MP3 CD compatibility, and XM Satellite radio capability with subscription. In addition to the Enthusiast's leather accents, the Touring model adds leather-appointed heated power seats. For extra stability and handling, Nissan adds their Vehicle Dynamic Control system.

The Nissan Z? Roadster Grand Touring Model

Nissan calls the Grand Touring model the ?Ultimate Z??, as it builds on the other models? considerable assets and piles on more. From the road up are RAYS super-lightweight, five-spoke 18? (front) and 19? (rear) forged alloy wheels with locking lug nuts. This feature ensures that admirers don't admire the wheels right off the car. These handsome, sporty wheels partially conceal a state-of-the-art Brembo braking system, which allows drivers to decelerate almost as quickly as the Grand Touring Z? accelerates. Rounding out the Ultimate Z? are exterior body effects, which help the Z? grip the road at higher speeds. These effects include a front chin spoiler, rear underbody diffusers, and a rear spoiler. As usual, form follows function, but seldom has practicality looked this cool.

For drivers who demand performance, superb styling, and pure driving pleasure from their machines, comparing the Nissan 350Z Roadster models is a bit like trying to decide which rose in a bouquet is the loveliest. Choices depend upon personal preferences, but once a driver settles in the cockpit, turns the key, feels the V6's power, and hits the road, the differences melt away and the fun truly begins. Visit a Nissan dealer near you and take a 350Z Enthusiast, Touring, or Grand Touring Roadster for a test drive. We dare you not to fall in love with the newest versions of this classic sports car.