Nissan 350Z Track 2006 Review

7-day Test

If there's a single car that epitomises Nissan's phoenix-like rise from near financial ruin a few years ago, the suave, muscular 350Z is undoubtedly it.

Rewind to 1999 and Nissan was a company on the verge of bankruptcy. Hamstrung by excessive operating costs and an uncompetitive model line-up, the Japanese automaker was in a dire predicament. During the 1990s, Nissan had only had one profitable year and, worse still, it had racked up $US12.6 billion in debt.

However, a dramatic turnaround plan by then-new company president and CEO Carlos Ghosn not only wiped the firm's deficit, but restored it to profitability within five years -- a startling recovery that few would have predicted.

And it was Ghosn who was the driving force behind the 350Z, a vehicle conceived to rekindle the glory days of the early Z cars of the 1970s and serve as an image leader for the reborn brand.

The 350Z was originally launched here in 2003 and the motoring press lauded it at the time for its stunning looks, strong performance and the value for money that it represented. However, this didn't mean there wasn't room for improvement, and for the 2006 model year, the swoopy coupe has received some subtle but noteworthy mechanical and cosmetic tweaks.

The most significant news is the slotting in of an uprated 3.5-litre V6 that pumps out 221kW, rather than the 206kW figure that the superseded model eked out. The more potent unit comes only with the six-speed manual transmission, however -- the five-speed auto is still mated to the 206kW unit, but this powerplant has more torque (363Nm versus 353Nm for the former).

In the context of this test, that last detail isn't relevant as the Track model we've reviewed is offered only as a manual, whereas the 'lesser' Touring variant can be had with either transmission.

How did Nissan's boffins find an extra 15kW? The answer lies in improved induction efficiency via larger-diameter intake ducts and retuned valve timing.

Will you notice the difference on the road? You'd probably need to drive the old and new models back to back, but rest assured the revised 350Z will be outsprinted by few sub-$100K cars. A Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX or Subaru Impreza WRX STi might do it, but only just, if at all.

There's bags of grunt across the rev range, but if there is a disappointing aspect, it lies in the engine's uninspiring exhuast note -- agricultural is too strong a word, but workmanlike perhaps best sums it up.

The six-speed manual has short, precise throws and the throttle is ultra-sensitive, so you need to drive the 350Z with fingertips and toes -- rather than ham fists and clodhopper feet -- in order to make smooth progress. It takes a little familiarisation, but once mastered, it's a satisfying drive.

Equally rewarding is the delightfully communicative, well-weighted steering and impressive chassis balance. Unfortunately, the VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) is less than subtle in its operation, cutting power abruptly if you gas it up hard while exiting tight corners. Thankfully, VDC can be deactivated by pressing a button on the dash. Enthusiastic drivers might feel inclined to do so in order to enjoy the Z's traditional musclecar (ie: powerful rear-drive) characteristics.

The Track's ride quality might be a bone of contention for some, as the combination of firm suspension and 18-inch rims with 45-series rubber means it crashes over road  irregularities. It's not quite on the bone-jarring end of the scale, but not far from it.

No beefs whatsoever with the Track's stopping power, as the quartet of Brembo anchors are strong, progressive and can take a pounding. You might get them to fade in max-attack mode on a racetrack, but they're more than adequate for road use.

In true sportscar fashion, you sit low, with your legs extended virtually straight out. The seats are comfortable and offer good lumbar support, but a bit more side bolstering would have been nice. Rearward visibility clearly isn't a strong point but, once again, a bit of familiarisation enables you to learn to live with it.

Luggage capacity is tight as the strut tower brace that extends across the load bay eats into the space. You'll have no problem throwing in some soft luggage or a golf bag (minus the driver), but forget about tossing in a full-size suitcase.

Trainspotters will be able to distinguish the revised 350Z via its redesigned front bumper and new Xenon headlamps (which, incidentally, are excellent), as well as the new "high-brightness" light-emitting diode (LED) tail-lights. The 18-inch alloys are also a new design.

Kit levels, you ask? Plentiful -- heated power-adjustable leather sports seats, climate-control air-con, a seven-speaker Bose 240-watt sound system, electric everything, six airbags (front, side and airbag) are all standard. Also included are cruise control, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and drilled aluminium pedals.

The Track model also scores a front chin spoiler, under-body diffusers and a rear spoiler that's claimed to boost aero efficiency, rather than just being cosmetic window dressing.

Overall verdict? The 350Z Track is an undoubted hoot to drive and it enjoys a somewhat unique distinction as it's one of the few remaining genuinely potent, rear-drive coupes that can be had for real world money (now that Holden's Monaro has been laid to rest).

Other rapid alternatives include Mistubishi's Lancer Evo IX and Subaru's Impreza WRX STi, but both these vehicles offer a different driving experience -- more sanitised -- and decidedly less visual appeal. You could also consider Chrysler's Crossfire or Mazda's RX-8.

That said, if you can live with the busy ride, lack of rear seats and modest luggage capacity, the 350Z's style and pace ensure it remains an enticing proposition.