2019 Nissan 370Z Pros vs Cons

Although the 2019 Nissan 370Z is an aging sports car, it still has the ability to fulfill your need for driving excitement. Its performance and styling match up well against the competition. While there's no overlooking the 370Z's standout qualities, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Let's take a more in-depth look at the latest model.

What's New for 2019?

Only minor updates were made to the 2019 Nissan 370Z. Nevertheless, a backup camera and auto-dimming rearview mirror now come standard on every trim. The model lineup has slightly changed as well.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2019 Nissan 370Z – The Pros

1. Affordable Sports Car

If you aren't looking to spend big money on a new sports car, the 2019 Nissan 370Z may prove to be a great option. It has an estimated starting price of less $30,000. This is far less expensive than some of today's premium models. For example, the base 2019 Porsche 718 Cayman demands nearly $57,000 before adding options. Fortunately, you won't be sacrificing a great deal of performance.

2. Strong Performer

Powering the 2019 Nissan 370Z is a familiar 3.7-liter, V6 engine. It's rated to produce a lively 332 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. While the available automatic transmission is great for everyday commuting, the six-speed manual with rev-matching technology will excite a lot of drivers. With a 0-60 time of 5.0 seconds, this Nissan sports car is certainly quick enough for the average driver.

3. Very Good Handling

Like a traditional sports car, the 2019 Nissan 370Z makes uses a rear-wheel-drive system. When behind the wheel of the new 370Z, you may fall in love with its great balance. An accurate steering system makes the 370Z especially easy to maneuver. While the standard suspension promotes good handling, an available limited-slip differential further sharpens up the car's driving dynamics.

4. Track-Capable Nismo Model

For the drivers who plan to occasionally hit the track, Nissan offers the Nismo model. Special engine tuning increases its output to 350 horsepower and 276 pound-feet of torque. Meanwhile, a racing clutch makes the 370Z Nismo even more suitable for track use. To promote more responsive handling, Nissan equips the Nismo model with a stiffer suspension system and upgraded performance tires. You'll also notice the 370Z's meaner-sounding exhaust system.

5. Iconic Z Styling

Although the 2019 Nissan 370Z has a modern look, it shares many styling cues with the original model that first hit the scene in 1969. Longtime Nissan fans will immediately notice the 370Z's sloping roof and short rear end. Even the base model comes equipped with xenon headlights and a cool set of 18-inch alloy wheels. Featuring chin and rear deck spoilers, the Sport model has an even sleeker look. Some of the attractive paint colors include Deep Blue Pearl, Magnetic Black Metallic, and Passion Red.

6. Fun Convertible Version

Most people will chose the 370Z coupe. However, others won't be able to resist the convertible version. It's just as fun and engaging to drive. While the convertible doesn't provide as much cargo space, most thrill seekers won't mind making this small sacrifice. The sheer excitement of riding with the top down is well worth it. It takes less than 20 seconds for the convertible roof to fold down. When traveling at highway speeds, a wind deflector helps limit turbulence on the inside.

7. Driver-Focused Cockpit

Sports car fans will enjoy the 370Z's driver-focused cockpit. Performance gauges and a leather-wrapped steering wheel help elicit a feeling of excitement. The Nismo model's Recaro sport seats hug you tight when taking corners. You'll also be impressed by the interior's overall quality. Upgraded upholstery is found inside the more luxurious Sport Touring model.

8. Bose Sound System

The 370Z's base six-speaker audio system offers decent sound quality. Music listeners will get more enjoyment out of the available Bose audio system. It comes equipped with a total of eight premium features, which are noticeably better than the standard ones. Even when playing bass-heavy music, the Bose sound system doesn't distort. You can also take advantage of the system's Active Sound Management technology, which can be used to amplify the sound of the engine.

9. Easy-to-Use Infotainment System

In order to get Nissan's touch-screen infotainment system, you must step up to a higher trim level. However, it does enhance your overall driving experience. When traveling, the interface's built-in navigation system will make your trip a lot more rewarding. A special NavTraffic feature helps you to avoid running into traffic jams. You can also easily plug in your iPod via the system's USB port.

10. Easy to Maintain

The 2019 Nissan 370Z is rather easy to service. This is good news for the drivers who don't want to spend a fortune on maintenance. Because of the car's naturally-aspirated engine, you don't have to worry about ever replacing a turbocharger.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2019 Nissan 370Z – The Cons

1. Not Big On the Inside

If you're a bigger driver, the new Nissan 370Z may not be a great choice. Its compact interior doesn't provide a lot of space to stretch out. There's also not a great deal of trunk space in the back, which forces you to sacrifice some practicality. The lack of a backseat is another one of the 370Z's drawbacks. Because of the sports car's two-seat design, drivers won't be able to haul around their kids.

2. Doesn't Offer Many Advanced Safety Technologies

The 370Z's backup camera will prove to be a big help in tight spots. Unfortunately, you won't have access to modern driving aids such as forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. To stay safe, you must rely upon your own sense of awareness. Rivals, such as the Ford Mustang, offer a far greater number of advanced safety technologies.

3. Manual Transmission Not Available for the Convertible Models

There are still some drivers who can't live without the excitement of a manual transmission. The 370Z coupe's manual transmission definitely delivers the fun. Sadly, convertible models can no longer be equipped with a traditional stick-shift transmission. While the convertible's automatic transmission works well, it can't match the sensation of being able to shift your own gears. A few drivers may consider this issue to be a deal breaker.

4. Doesn't Offer All-Wheel Drive

The 2019 Nissan 370Z is not a great car for driving in bad weather. Its rear-wheel-drive system won't provide great traction in the snow. Although the Dodge Charger is bigger and heavier than the 370Z, it does offer an advanced AWD system. When winter rolls around, 370Z owners may need to keep their car garaged until the spring.

5. Not the Most Modern Sports Car

Some people will desire more technology than the 370Z offers. This is especially true for smartphone users. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are still not available. You also can't get the 370Z with high-tech goodies such as a fully digital gauge cluster. While the 370Z's engine packs an ample punch, some of today's other sports cars come equipped with a more advanced four-cylinder engine that returns better fuel economy.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

One of the 370Z's biggest rivals is the 2019 Subaru BRZ. While the BRZ's lightweight design promotes sensational handling, it's not nearly as powerful as the 2019 Nissan 370Z. The same thing goes for the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata. It's important to note that both of these competitors have a lower starting price.

You can also compare the new 370Z to the 2019 Ford Mustang. Although the 370Z may be slightly nimbler than the Ford Mustang on the track, it's not as good on gas. While Mustang models equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder can return more than 30 mpg on the highway, the 370Z tops out at 26 mpg. More safety features are also available for the Ford Mustang.

Conclusion:

The 2019 Nissan 370Z is epitome of a sports car. It's sleek, relatively fast, and a blast to drive. In terms of driving enjoyment, this ride is a legitimate bang for the buck. Although the 370Z is not spacious on the inside, average-sized drivers will find it to be a comfortable daily-driver. Just don't expect to be surrounded by a lot of high-tech features. Its cabin is more focused on driving excitement opposed to providing luxurious amenities.