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2005 Nissan 350Z news, pictures, and information
Nissan North America, Inc. this week marked the 35th anniversary of the debut of the original Datsun 240Z sports car by announcing details of the special Nissan 350Z 35th Anniversary model. The commemorative model, one of six 350Z Coupe models offered in 2005 (along with three 2005 Nissan 350Z Roadster models), is highlighted by a higher performance version of the Z®'s standard 3.5-liter V6. The engine, which is available only with the 6-speed manual transmission, produces 300 horsepower versus the standard 287-horsepower V6. The 35th Anniversary Z® makes its industry debut at the Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas on November 2nd, followed by its first public appearance at the Miami Auto Show in early November. It is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in January 2005.
'Surviving 35 years does not make a sports car a classic. But power, style and class leadership certainly does,' said Mark McNabb, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. 'This new 35th Anniversary represents the highest expression so far of the Z® – and Nissan – and takes its place in a long line of extraordinary performance vehicles.'
The 35th Anniversary Z®'s engine has been modified using revised pistons and camshaft and the addition of electronic exhaust valve timing control. The same engine will also be available as standard equipment on the 2005 350Z Track model (6MT only), which also goes on sale in early 2005.
Other key 35th Anniversary Z® equipment (standard on both 6-speed manual and 5-speed automatic equipped versions) includes unique 18-inch cast aluminum-alloy wheels, front and rear spoilers, Brembo® brakes and special Z® badging.
The 35th Anniversary Z® is offered in just three colors – Ultra Yellow, Super Black and Silverstone. The new Ultra Yellow exterior color utilizes a new high-luminance and high-chroma pearl pigment and three layers of top coat (with separate color pigment and pearl pigment layers) to create an almost 'liquid' surface appearance.
The 35th Anniversary Z® also is available with unique, optional black-and-tan leather-appointed seats (except with the Ultra Yellow interior).
All 2005 350Z models, including the new 35th Anniversary model, receive a standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), heated outside mirrors, wider view side mirrors and front seat lifter. Automatic transmission equipped models are now outfitted with downshift rev matching for smoother shifting, and manual transmission models now come with reduced clutch pedal effort for easier operation. The optional navigation system (available on 35th Anniversary and Touring models only) now has a faster system processor.
The 2005 350Z Coupe is available in six models – 350Z, Enthusiast, Performance, Touring, Track MT and the 35th Anniversary. Standard features on all models include the 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine, independent multi-link suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars, strut tower bar, power windows, 3-bay gauge cluster, dual front air bags, available seat mounted side impact air bags and more.
The 2005 350Z Roadster is offered in Enthusiast, Touring and Grand Touring models. The Grand Touring, offered for the first time in 2005, includes standard Brembo brakes, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and 18-inch wheels and tires.
35 Years of the Z®
The latest generation 350Z takes its cues from the first generation Datsun 240Z – a front engine/rear-wheel drive drivetrain configuration, two-seat interior, a powerful 6-cylinder engine and, of course, a simple and honest design. Horsepower was set at 150 and the list price was $3,526 when it went on sale on October 18, 1969 as a 1970 model. It was an instant hit, with perspective owners having to wait nearly six months to get one.
The model designation was changed to the 260Z in 1974 following an increase in engine size to 2.6-liters. In mid-year 1975, a new 280Z replaced the 260Z. The 280ZX was introduced in 1979 was named Motor Trend 'Import Car of the Year.' T-top roofs were introduced in 1980 and by year's end, half of all ZXs were so equipped. In 1981, the 280ZX Turbo went on sale. Then in 1984 the Nissan 300ZX was introduced with a major facelift. The 1984 300ZX sold 73,101 units, becoming the top-selling sports car in America.
In 1990, the 300ZX, with a completely new body and interior, debuted with 222 horsepower, a turbo 300ZX went on sale later in the year with 300 horsepower. American Z sales surpassed the 1 million-sales mark in the early 90's, becoming the all-time best selling sports car. Nissan offered the first Z® convertible in 1993.
In 1996, 300ZX production for the U.S. ended; the last imported 1996 model 300ZX was inducted into the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles. Then in 1999, a special Z® Concept debuted at North American International Auto Show in Detroit. A production version of Z® was shown at Tokyo Motor Show and the 350Z name was announced.
In 2002, the current generation 350Z went on sale as a 2003 model, followed by the 350Z Roadster a year later.
'The history of the Z® is still being written, even as we take time to celebrate the first 35 years,' said McNabb. 'And if, as they say, history repeats itself, the best is still to come.'Source - Nissan
'Surviving 35 years does not make a sports car a classic. But power, style and class leadership certainly does,' said Mark McNabb, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. 'This new 35th Anniversary represents the highest expression so far of the Z® – and Nissan – and takes its place in a long line of extraordinary performance vehicles.'
The 35th Anniversary Z®'s engine has been modified using revised pistons and camshaft and the addition of electronic exhaust valve timing control. The same engine will also be available as standard equipment on the 2005 350Z Track model (6MT only), which also goes on sale in early 2005.
Other key 35th Anniversary Z® equipment (standard on both 6-speed manual and 5-speed automatic equipped versions) includes unique 18-inch cast aluminum-alloy wheels, front and rear spoilers, Brembo® brakes and special Z® badging.
The 35th Anniversary Z® is offered in just three colors – Ultra Yellow, Super Black and Silverstone. The new Ultra Yellow exterior color utilizes a new high-luminance and high-chroma pearl pigment and three layers of top coat (with separate color pigment and pearl pigment layers) to create an almost 'liquid' surface appearance.
The 35th Anniversary Z® also is available with unique, optional black-and-tan leather-appointed seats (except with the Ultra Yellow interior).
All 2005 350Z models, including the new 35th Anniversary model, receive a standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), heated outside mirrors, wider view side mirrors and front seat lifter. Automatic transmission equipped models are now outfitted with downshift rev matching for smoother shifting, and manual transmission models now come with reduced clutch pedal effort for easier operation. The optional navigation system (available on 35th Anniversary and Touring models only) now has a faster system processor.
The 2005 350Z Coupe is available in six models – 350Z, Enthusiast, Performance, Touring, Track MT and the 35th Anniversary. Standard features on all models include the 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine, independent multi-link suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars, strut tower bar, power windows, 3-bay gauge cluster, dual front air bags, available seat mounted side impact air bags and more.
The 2005 350Z Roadster is offered in Enthusiast, Touring and Grand Touring models. The Grand Touring, offered for the first time in 2005, includes standard Brembo brakes, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and 18-inch wheels and tires.
35 Years of the Z®
The latest generation 350Z takes its cues from the first generation Datsun 240Z – a front engine/rear-wheel drive drivetrain configuration, two-seat interior, a powerful 6-cylinder engine and, of course, a simple and honest design. Horsepower was set at 150 and the list price was $3,526 when it went on sale on October 18, 1969 as a 1970 model. It was an instant hit, with perspective owners having to wait nearly six months to get one.
The model designation was changed to the 260Z in 1974 following an increase in engine size to 2.6-liters. In mid-year 1975, a new 280Z replaced the 260Z. The 280ZX was introduced in 1979 was named Motor Trend 'Import Car of the Year.' T-top roofs were introduced in 1980 and by year's end, half of all ZXs were so equipped. In 1981, the 280ZX Turbo went on sale. Then in 1984 the Nissan 300ZX was introduced with a major facelift. The 1984 300ZX sold 73,101 units, becoming the top-selling sports car in America.
In 1990, the 300ZX, with a completely new body and interior, debuted with 222 horsepower, a turbo 300ZX went on sale later in the year with 300 horsepower. American Z sales surpassed the 1 million-sales mark in the early 90's, becoming the all-time best selling sports car. Nissan offered the first Z® convertible in 1993.
In 1996, 300ZX production for the U.S. ended; the last imported 1996 model 300ZX was inducted into the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles. Then in 1999, a special Z® Concept debuted at North American International Auto Show in Detroit. A production version of Z® was shown at Tokyo Motor Show and the 350Z name was announced.
In 2002, the current generation 350Z went on sale as a 2003 model, followed by the 350Z Roadster a year later.
'The history of the Z® is still being written, even as we take time to celebrate the first 35 years,' said McNabb. 'And if, as they say, history repeats itself, the best is still to come.'Source - Nissan
The 240Z was not a new idea. Sturdy engineering, excellent performance, low price, attractive styling, and average interior had been achieved by many manufacturers prior to the Z-car. The reason the 240Z car was so great was because it capitalized on all these criteria and perfected the concept of a low-cost, reliable, sports car. Mr. Yutaka Katayama is considered the 'Father of the Z Car' and is responsible for the design and creation of this legendary vehicle. As recognition of his contributions to the automotive world, in 1998 he was inducted into the Automobile Hall of Fame.
The Datsun 240Z was introduced in 1969 as a 1970 model. The engine was a derivation of the Datsun 1600. The Datsun 1600 engine was a copy of the 1960's six-cylinder Mercedes-Benz 220 engine, but with two less cylinders. By adding two extra cylinders in the 240Z the cylinder count was back to six. With 151 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque the vehicle could propel from zero-to-sixty in eight seconds. The independent suspension and the rack-and-pinion steering added to its quick response, performance, and handling. The front disc brakes brought the car to a stop from high speeds in just seconds. With a price tag of just over $3,500, it cost much less than anything else on the market. Due to demand, a year later Kelly Blue Book rated the value of a used 240Z at $4,000.
The 240Z dominated the SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) C-class production category for 10 years ranging from 1970 through 1979. In 1970 and 1971 John Morton, driving for Brock Racing Enterprises, was the first to claim victory in SCCA C-Class production racing using a 240Z. Bob Sharp claimed his first win in that category in 1972 and again in 1973 and 1975. Walt Maas continued the streak in 1974. The Z-car competed in the IMSA (International Motor Sports Association) where it captured many victories, including the IMSA GTU title. In 1982, Devendorf and his Electromotive racing team win Datsun's first ever IMSA GTO championship.
In 1985, Paul Newman set 10 track records in a 280ZX Turbo.
In 1994, a race-modified Z car won the 24 Hors of Daytona and the 12 Hours at Sebring. It also captured the GTS Class at the 24 Hours of LeMans, making it the only car ever to accomplish such a record within the same year.
In 1974, the engine displacement was increased to 2.6 liters and the vehicle was dubbed the 260Z. This brought an end to the 240Z series which had sold 116,712 examples during its life-span. The United States emissions regulations were increasing every year. Thus, the 260Z had less horsepower than its predecessor and was rated at 139.
The 260Z was available in 2+2 configuration. With the fold-down rear seats, the 260Z offered a higher level of practicality over the 240Z. During its first and only model year, 63,963 examples were produced giving it the all-time Z-car sales record to date.
In 1975 the displacement was increased to 2.8 liters and the vehicle dubbed the 280Z. A Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system was included which helped bring increase the horsepower to 149.
In 1977, the horsepower rating was 170. A five-speed overdrive transmission was now offered, giving the vehicle better performance and fuel economy. The sales of the Z car once again hit a record high, with 67,331 units sold.
In 1979, the second generation of the Z-car was introduced as the 280ZX. It was more refined and luxurious than the previous Z's. The formula was correct and it was named Motor Trends 'Import Car of the Year'. A new all-time sales record was achieved with 86,007 units being sold.
In 1980, over 500,000 cumulative American Z-cars had been sold. It had reached the half-million sales mark faster than any other sport car. A new T-bar roof option was now being offered.
To add to the appeal and performance of the 280ZX, a turbocharged engine became available in 1981. Sales continued to remain strong through 1983.
In 1984 the third generation of the Z-car was introduced and was dubbed the 300ZX. It featured distinct styling and a new 3.0 liter V6 engine. The normal-aspirated engine produced 160 horsepower, while the turbocharged version offers 200 horsepower.
In 1989, the American automotive economy was continuing to evolve. Minivan's and sport utility vehicles were gaining in popularity. In response, Nissan introduced the fourth-generation Z-car in 1990. The new 300ZX featured improvements both mechanically and aesthetically. Under the hood sat an all-new DOHC 3.0-liter engine with a horsepower rating of 222. A twin-turbocharged version of the engine was available and brought the total horsepower output to 300. The body of the vehicle had been improved giving it a more aggressive stance.
Motor Trend awarded the Z00ZXTT 'Import Car of the Year' and 'One of the Top Ten Performance Cars'. Automobile Magazine honored the car with 'Design of the Year' and was added to its 'All Stars' list. Not to be outdone, Road & Track named the car 'One of the Ten Best Cars in the World'. Car and driver named it 'One of the Ten Best Cars'.
During the 1990 model year the one-million sales mark was achieved making it the all-time best selling sports car. The car continued to receive great reviews and awards by Magazines and publications. The year 1995 marked the 25th Anniversary of the Z-car. To commemorate this occasion, a limited edition was produced with the help of Steve Millen Sport Cars.
In 1996, the production of the Z-car ceased in North America. Decreasing Sales figures, and increased smog regulations and production costs were to blame. The price of the twin-turbo 300ZX was priced at $45,000, a cost that was to expensive for most consumers. Production of the Z-car continued in Japan until 1999, although it had undergone a major redesign in 1998.
In August of 2002, Nissan introduced the 350Z. This six-gear, two-seater was the fifth generation of the Z-car. Offered in five trim packages that included Base, Enthusiast, Performance, Touring, and Track Editions, the vehicle was an instant success. Base price was around $26,000 with the fully-loaded Track option costing over $34,000. Aesthetic and performance upgrades were available through Nismo, Nissan's motorsport and performance division.
In 2004, a roadster option was offered. The roadster was available in two trim packages which included the Enthusiast and Touring editions.
A special 35th Anniversary model was released in 2005 featuring twice the output of the original 1969 model.
Sales figures, race results, and satisfied customers have proven this to be one of the best sports vehicles ever produced.
For more information and related vehicles, click here© 1998-2009. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
The Datsun 240Z was introduced in 1969 as a 1970 model. The engine was a derivation of the Datsun 1600. The Datsun 1600 engine was a copy of the 1960's six-cylinder Mercedes-Benz 220 engine, but with two less cylinders. By adding two extra cylinders in the 240Z the cylinder count was back to six. With 151 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque the vehicle could propel from zero-to-sixty in eight seconds. The independent suspension and the rack-and-pinion steering added to its quick response, performance, and handling. The front disc brakes brought the car to a stop from high speeds in just seconds. With a price tag of just over $3,500, it cost much less than anything else on the market. Due to demand, a year later Kelly Blue Book rated the value of a used 240Z at $4,000.
The 240Z dominated the SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) C-class production category for 10 years ranging from 1970 through 1979. In 1970 and 1971 John Morton, driving for Brock Racing Enterprises, was the first to claim victory in SCCA C-Class production racing using a 240Z. Bob Sharp claimed his first win in that category in 1972 and again in 1973 and 1975. Walt Maas continued the streak in 1974. The Z-car competed in the IMSA (International Motor Sports Association) where it captured many victories, including the IMSA GTU title. In 1982, Devendorf and his Electromotive racing team win Datsun's first ever IMSA GTO championship.
In 1985, Paul Newman set 10 track records in a 280ZX Turbo.
In 1994, a race-modified Z car won the 24 Hors of Daytona and the 12 Hours at Sebring. It also captured the GTS Class at the 24 Hours of LeMans, making it the only car ever to accomplish such a record within the same year.
In 1974, the engine displacement was increased to 2.6 liters and the vehicle was dubbed the 260Z. This brought an end to the 240Z series which had sold 116,712 examples during its life-span. The United States emissions regulations were increasing every year. Thus, the 260Z had less horsepower than its predecessor and was rated at 139.
The 260Z was available in 2+2 configuration. With the fold-down rear seats, the 260Z offered a higher level of practicality over the 240Z. During its first and only model year, 63,963 examples were produced giving it the all-time Z-car sales record to date.
In 1975 the displacement was increased to 2.8 liters and the vehicle dubbed the 280Z. A Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system was included which helped bring increase the horsepower to 149.
In 1977, the horsepower rating was 170. A five-speed overdrive transmission was now offered, giving the vehicle better performance and fuel economy. The sales of the Z car once again hit a record high, with 67,331 units sold.
In 1979, the second generation of the Z-car was introduced as the 280ZX. It was more refined and luxurious than the previous Z's. The formula was correct and it was named Motor Trends 'Import Car of the Year'. A new all-time sales record was achieved with 86,007 units being sold.
In 1980, over 500,000 cumulative American Z-cars had been sold. It had reached the half-million sales mark faster than any other sport car. A new T-bar roof option was now being offered.
To add to the appeal and performance of the 280ZX, a turbocharged engine became available in 1981. Sales continued to remain strong through 1983.
In 1984 the third generation of the Z-car was introduced and was dubbed the 300ZX. It featured distinct styling and a new 3.0 liter V6 engine. The normal-aspirated engine produced 160 horsepower, while the turbocharged version offers 200 horsepower.
In 1989, the American automotive economy was continuing to evolve. Minivan's and sport utility vehicles were gaining in popularity. In response, Nissan introduced the fourth-generation Z-car in 1990. The new 300ZX featured improvements both mechanically and aesthetically. Under the hood sat an all-new DOHC 3.0-liter engine with a horsepower rating of 222. A twin-turbocharged version of the engine was available and brought the total horsepower output to 300. The body of the vehicle had been improved giving it a more aggressive stance.
Motor Trend awarded the Z00ZXTT 'Import Car of the Year' and 'One of the Top Ten Performance Cars'. Automobile Magazine honored the car with 'Design of the Year' and was added to its 'All Stars' list. Not to be outdone, Road & Track named the car 'One of the Ten Best Cars in the World'. Car and driver named it 'One of the Ten Best Cars'.
During the 1990 model year the one-million sales mark was achieved making it the all-time best selling sports car. The car continued to receive great reviews and awards by Magazines and publications. The year 1995 marked the 25th Anniversary of the Z-car. To commemorate this occasion, a limited edition was produced with the help of Steve Millen Sport Cars.
In 1996, the production of the Z-car ceased in North America. Decreasing Sales figures, and increased smog regulations and production costs were to blame. The price of the twin-turbo 300ZX was priced at $45,000, a cost that was to expensive for most consumers. Production of the Z-car continued in Japan until 1999, although it had undergone a major redesign in 1998.
In August of 2002, Nissan introduced the 350Z. This six-gear, two-seater was the fifth generation of the Z-car. Offered in five trim packages that included Base, Enthusiast, Performance, Touring, and Track Editions, the vehicle was an instant success. Base price was around $26,000 with the fully-loaded Track option costing over $34,000. Aesthetic and performance upgrades were available through Nismo, Nissan's motorsport and performance division.
In 2004, a roadster option was offered. The roadster was available in two trim packages which included the Enthusiast and Touring editions.
A special 35th Anniversary model was released in 2005 featuring twice the output of the original 1969 model.
Sales figures, race results, and satisfied customers have proven this to be one of the best sports vehicles ever produced.
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