Nissan 370Z Roadster is sleek, fun-to-drive sports car

Nissan 370Z Roadster is sleek, fun-to-drive sports car
370Z Roadster has signature long nose and short cockpit proportions, and distinctive “boomerang” design of the headlights and taillights.

The Nissan 370Z Roadster always has been a fun little sports car to drive, and the new 2014 version is no exception. However, there is little change in the sexy little car after last year’s enhancements that included a revised front fascia with LED daytime running lights.

Under the hood, the Z Roadster continues with a standard 332-hp 3.7-liter DOHC V-6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL) and a choice of a seven-speed automatic transmission or close-ratio six-speed manual with available SynchroRev Match (that’s available only on the Touring model with the Sport Package).

The Roadster (or convertible) is based on the 370Z Coupe and it has several unique features, including available high-back net seats, structural body reinforcements and a very stylish convertible top. The poweroperated automatic-latching top was designed to give the Roadster a sleek silhouette with the top either up or down. It has an easy single-action open-close operation and allows for an enjoyable top-down driving experience, with reduced wind turbulence for passenger comfort.

With the top closed, the design has a sophisticated sloped-back look and the soft top blends neatly into the body design. The shortened windshield and rounded rear deck enhance the aerodynamic lines. In the down position, the top is concealed beneath a body-color hard tonneau cover that extends forward to help create the Z Roadster’s “double cockpit” interior. The top operation takes about 20 seconds and is controlled by either a center consolemounted switch or by a button on the doors (for lowering only). The automatic latch system secures or releases the top from the windshield header.

The standard black (a Bordeaux color top is available with the wine colored interior) cloth convertible top has a fabric inner liner that helps stop noise from getting into the cabin. A large glass rear window with an integrated electric defroster also helps reduce noise in the interior, while the glass wind deflector between the headrest bars has been designed to reduce wind turbulence in the cabin.

The 370Z Roadster has an aluminum hood, door panels and trunk for reduced weight. It includes additional structural reinforcement (over the 370Z Coupe) in the Apillars and side sills. The exterior design incorporates the signature Z long nose/short cockpit proportions and the distinctive headlight/ taillight treatment has an aggressive “boomerang” shape. The headlights are a High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon design with an auto on/off feature and integrated LED daytime running lights. Eight exterior colors are offered for 2014 — Midnight Blue, Magma Red, Solid Red, Magnetic Black, Brilliant Silver, Gun Metallic, Black Cherry and Pearl White.

The MSRP on The Nissan 370Z Roadster is $41,470.

Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to LetsTalkCars@aol.com.


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