2019 Nissan 370Z Coupe Review

Now in its 11th year of production, the Nissan 370Z hasn't changed that much from the model that replaced the 350Z in 2009. The sixth-generation car has seen the unfortunate steady decline in sales of not only the Z series but sports cars as a whole, not helped by the car's aging infrastructure. That being said, this two-seater sports car still has a little gas left in the tank and some old-school charm with which to woo those who don't like the digital age. With a six-speed manual transmission available and a naturally aspirated V6 engine capable of producing 332 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, the 370Z is still a powerhouse in its segment, capable of going from 0-60 mph in five seconds and giving buyers their rear-wheel-driven thrills. However, with a pretty hefty starting price of around $30,000 and fewer features than rivals like the Ford Mustang GT, the Nissan 370Z Coupe is more than beginning to feel its age.

What's the Price of the 2019 Nissan 370Z Coupe?

The base Nissan 370Z Coupe is the cheapest model with an MSRP of $30,090. This is exclusive of tax, licensing, registration, incentives, and a destination charge of $895. The 370Z Coupe Sport has an MSRP of $33,820 while the 370Z Coupe Sport Touring's MSRP starts at $38,190. Equipping an automatic gearbox to any of these trims adds $1,300 - $1,400 to the asking price, trim dependant.

2019 370Z Coupe Exterior

Dimensions

2019 370Z Coupe Performance

Handling and Driving Impressions

As a sports car and not a supercar, there's still a modicum of daily drivability expected from the 370Z. In general, it feels capable ambling about town at regular speeds, and it's easy to drive in traffic, particularly with the automatic gearbox equipped. However, when pursuing highway speeds or canyon-carving jaunts, the cracks begin to show.

The engine's coarseness at high speeds makes one reluctant to push for performance, while the gearbox whine, substantial tire noise, and lack of sound deadening all make for an unbearable cacophony in the cabin, particularly over rough tarmac. Fortunately, the suspension manages to absorb most road abrasions, so the noise is all you have to contend with, although ride quality still errs on the firmer side of the spectrum.

Handling is much the same: Okay up to a point, but disappointing beyond. The tires are partially to blame, being grippy at casual speeds, but somewhat losing the plot when you pursue corners aggressively. The lack of a limited-slip differential in this guise doesn't help matters much, and managing throttle inputs, balancing the weighty steering, and dabbing the brakes to maintain balance are left entirely up to the driver. Some might find the level of involvement pleasurable, in an old-school kind of way but, to most, the 370Z is just infuriatingly dated and incapable.

The brakes tell of the 370Z's age, too, grabby when cold and lacking outright potency when warm. They're ample, but not excellent, and isn't driving a sports car all about excellence?

2019 370Z Coupe Interior

2019 370Z Coupe Trunk and Cargo Space

Warranty

Verdict: Is the 2019 Nissan 370Z Coupe A Good car?

While the Nissan 370Z Coupe is still an engaging vehicle, it lacks many of the features and luxuries that are becoming more commonplace in the segment. For this reason, it falls behind most competitors. Many may overlook the lack of features for an engaging drive, but the truth is that competitors are managing to achieve comparable or better performance at equal or less cost. The 370Z just doesn't seem like a logical purchase anymore.

The labored, unrefined powertrain and sub-par handling are the main nails in the coffin of the 370Z, but the truth is that there aren't many areas where the latest Z car isn't feeling more than a decade old. The chassis, once involving, is now just old and incapable of running with the modern competition, and while rivals are few at present, with the arrival of long-time Z rival, the Toyota Supra next year, things look woeful for the 370Z.

The Nissan 370Z Coupe is not a bad vehicle, but it is most definitely not the best car in its segment nor the best investment. The dated driving experience feels nostalgic, like a step back in time, which may appeal to some sports car buyers, but not those looking for something a bit more contemporary.

What Nissan 370Z Coupe Model Should I Buy?

The base 370Z Coupe is quite sparse on features and has some notable failings in performance. Since sports cars cater primarily to performance-minded individuals, the Sport trim is definitely the best choice, especially if you opt for the six-speed manual to optimize the driving experience. With better infotainment and tech features as well as the inclusion of a limited-slip differential and larger wheels and tires, the Sport trim sits head and shoulders above base Coupe. The improved powertrain, brakes, and lightweight wheels further offer better handling and the SynchroRev Match system is a nice add-on should you opt for an automatic. While the Sport Touring offers even more comfort and luxury features, the significant price hike doesn't seem worth the investment.

2019 Nissan 370Z Coupe Comparisons

2019 Nissan 370Z Coupe vs Nissan GT-R

It may seem like an exorbitant comparison, but both aging sports cars have different high points to offer prospective buyers. With a starting MSRP of $101,865, the GT-R is certainly in a very different price bracket, and its supercar-smashing performance places it almost in a league of its own. Powered by a twin-turbo 3.8-liter V6, it generates nearly double the power of the 370Z with 600 hp, and manages to put it down easily with permanent all-wheel-drive compared to the 370Z's RWD setup. It's vastly quicker and eats racetracks for breakfast, but is nowhere near as wieldy as the little Z car is, with the 370Z providing accessible power and, most importantly, a manual gearbox through which to row your own gears. The four seats of the GT-R mean it could be used practically, but the reality is that this won't sway your decision. Ultimately, you need to decide what you want – accessible enjoyment or supercar-bating capabilities? For most, the accessible performance makes the 370Z the obvious choice, while a more affordable price tag makes that an easier reality to achieve.

2019 Nissan 370Z Coupe vs Ford Mustang Coupe

In terms of affordable sports cars, the Ford Mustang is a top contender, handily surpassing the Nissan 370Z in most aspects. Its turbo inline-four engine is more powerful, producing 310 hp and, combined with its excellent handling, one would be hard-pressed to find a more enjoyable and exciting driving experience. The quality interior is more spacious, even offering rear seats. However, these seats are naturally a bit cramped and can only be accessed from the two front doors. While the Mustang features smart device integration and hands-free communication as standard, climate control and rear-parking assistance have to be added to the base package. The pros certainly outweigh the cons, though, and the modest starting price of $26,395 MSRP paired with much better fuel economy than the 370Z makes the decision that much easier. Get the Mustang, it's simply the better sports car here.

2019 Nissan 370Z Coupe vs Subaru BRZ

If you're looking at buying a small, naturally aspirated sports coupe, the Subaru BRZ is bound to be on your shortlist, and with good reason – it's a phenomenal sports car. While its 2.0-liter Boxer engine is 132 hp less powerful than the 370Z's V6, it's some $5,000 cheaper than the Nissan. It weighs a lot less, too, being nearly 600 lbs lighter, meaning performance is closer than you might think. The 370Z is ultimately quicker by about a second to 60 mph but, on the go, the BRZ feels just as lively, even if it lacks the V6 soundtrack. The BRZ is keener to chase the redline, however, and it's also keener through corners, where the lighter body and more refined suspension setup enables drivers to push up to and beyond the limits with greater confidence and control. It's a testament to how much things have evolved in a decade, as the BRZ feels better to drive despite the power deficit. Not only is it easier and more fun to drive, but it's also more practical, with rear seats and an abundance of modern technology. The thought of a big V6 might be enticing, but the BRZ is the better buy here and at a lower price.