Vehicle Type: Coupe / Convertible

Description: The Nissan 370Z is a two-seat sports model built to embody the latest and greatest in a storied line of affordable performance cars from Nissan, succeeding the smaller-engined 350Z. It’s not big or practical, and it’s only got two seats – but the 370Z is a total riot, and should prove relatively affordable in the used market as more examples pop up. Especially with the Sport Package, this is a twitchy little rocket of a coupe that gives its drivers the look and feel of a hardcore track toy.

Coupe or convertible body styles were on offer, the latter offering a fully motorized top that can be toggled in and out of operation at the touch of a button. Feature content included Bose audio, navigation, Bluetooth, climate-controlled seats and xenon lighting.

A genuine sports car driving experience comes from the latest Z’s dedicated sports car platform as well as a proven powertrain.

Engines: Nissan’s long-lived, award-winning VQ-series V6 is mounted low and rearward under the Z’s hood. The 3.7L unit comes with Nissan’s VHR or Very High Rev designation, thanks to a 7,500 rpm redline. Output is rated at 332 hp, delivered on a peaky surge. Special-edition models, like the hopped-up Z Nismo, pack even more output. All units are rear-wheel drive, with a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic paddle-shift transmission.

What Owners Like: Looks, exclusivity, pedigree and all-around high performance value were key draws for 370Z owners. The factory stereo system, gorgeous engine and tremendously agile handling helped seal the deal.

What Owners Dislike: Typical owner complaints centre around limited space, the lack of rear seats, excessive noise and a rough ride, especially on models with the up-sized tires and wheels.

Here’s a look at some Nissan 370Z owner reviews from autoTRADER.ca

The Test Drive: Like its corporate cousin, the Infiniti G37, the current-generation Nissan 370Z looks like a reliable and solid used performance car buy. That’s a fact backed by the positive experience of many owners surveyed online in forums. Still, test drivers are advised to conduct several mandatory checks to help ensure they find a first-class, second-hand copy of a 370Z.

First up? Check the rear hatch, ensuring it’s capable of staying open under its own power, and that it doesn’t fall into its closed position with just a slight amount of downwards pressure applied. If it does, you’ll need to change the gas struts, which should take about four minutes if you’re mechanically inclined. Also, be sure to confirm the hatch release works as expected, both from the button above the license plate, and from the remote keyfob, several times, as some owners have reported failure. Here’s a little more reading.

Next, check down low and beneath the body for signs of excessive rust – paying extra attention to the underside of the Z, as well as the lower inner edges of the doors. Rocker panels should be inspected, too. Pull the weather stripping on the inner part of the doors away, gently, and look for signs of rust forming behind them.

It’s pronounced “zed” up here: ZCon 2016: The International Z Car Convention Heads North

Convertible models should be subjected to a good soak-down by a garden hose to check for leaks, and an inspection of the cabin for signs of moisture, which could indicate a prior leak. Smell for must and mildew, and examine the carpeting, seats and the area where the roof stows for signs of sogginess. Cycle the roof through its open and closed positions a few times, noting any unwelcome binding, nasty sounds, or warning lights. Inspect all weather stripping where the top meets the windows and body of the Z, ensuring they’re plump and full, not crispy, weathered-looking, cracked or missing.

Connect with Autos.ca