Nissan gives the ol' spit shine to the poor man's GT-R
By Thom Blackett
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April 6, 2007
What it Is
2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z Preview – New York Auto Show: Nissan knows that speed freaks are anxiously awaiting the arrival of its mucho-powered GT-R
sports car. Interest in the brand's performance aspirations is high, so what better time than the present to highlight the brand's NISMO line of aftermarket products? Taking center stage at the 2007 New York Auto Show was the 2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z, a tricked out version of the street car made to resemble Nissan's Super GT racing cars with a host of parts developed to make the modern-day Z handle better, look cool, and breathe easier. The NISMO 350Z goes on sale in July as a coupe only.
What's Under the Hood Though the 2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z features the stock 306-horsepower V6 and six-speed manual transmission, there are numerous upgrades behind the scenes. The body has been reinforced with additional welds for improved rigidity, large Brembo disc brakes work to slow things down, 18-inch NISMO wheels and Bridgestone Potenza tires address grip the road, and a specially-tuned suspension system ensures stable handling. Nissan has also equipped this 350Z with a NISMO exhaust setup, complete with dual chrome tips.
What it Looks Like NISMO performance is about more than some bolt-on suspension parts and lightweight gunmetal gray wheels. In the case of the 350Z, it's also about visual style and helping a sleek two-door coupe slice through the air with more ease. To that end, front and rear fascias have been heavily redesigned with spoilers and diffusers to improve the 350Z's aerodynamics, a significant rear wing has been fitted to add downforce at speed, and matching side skirts have been added to finish off the package. Models are available in red, black, silver, and white. Inside the NISMO 350Z are seats with unique inserts and stitching, white-faced gauges, and a NISMO plaque.
Photos courtesy of Thom Blackett and Nissan
