2004 Nissan 350Z Coupe New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2004 Nissan 350Z?
For 2004, Nissan adds a soft-top version of the 350Z to its lineup. Highlights of the 2004 Nissan 350Z Roadster, available in Enthusiast and Touring trim levels, include a fully automatic convertible top and a strengthened structure to reduce wiggles and shaking over rough pavement. Enthusiast models feature power seats, a rear wind deflector, 17-inch alloy wheels, Xenon headlights, automatic climate control, and a choice between a five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission. The Touring Model adds a premium audio system with six-disc CD changer and seven speakers, leather-appointed heated seats, and heated mirrors. Minor changes for all 2004 Nissan 350Zs include a new, power-operated cover for the navigation system (storage bin cover on models without navigation), pre-wiring for satellite radio, the addition of both driver and passenger knee pads for the center console and a new exterior color called Liquid Aluminum. Interior materials have also been upgraded in response to critic and customer complaints that the inside of the Nissan 350Z looked and felt cheap.

Advantages of the 2004 Nissan 350Z:

• Razor-sharp steering, handling, brakes
• Availability in coupe or convertible format
• Multiple trim lines to suit your sports car needs

Objections to the 2004 Nissan 350Z:

• Price soars with the addition of options
• Track trim level too harsh for daily commuting

Editor's Advice:
Listening to the chorals of mournful fans yearning for a serious sports car with a price point south of Porsche territory, as well as the Z-car faithful, Nissan resurrected the 350Z in 2003. Though not quite the bargain it was when the Z set enthusiasts’ hearts aflutter in 1970, the 2004 Nissan 350Z is one of the sharpest handlers around, riding on a near-perfectly balanced chassis. Letting it loose on a twisty road is a joy, as is revving the 287-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 engine. Roadster fans may find the soft top version a bit of a grand tourer due to its added weight from structural bracing, while the ultra-stiff Track model feels more at home on a race course than on pothole-dotted public roads. If you want to be coddled on your commute, or need space for more than two people, look into the 350Z’s fancy twin, the Infiniti G35 Coupe. It costs only slightly more, suffers a minor decrease in performance, but is more luxurious and suitable for real-world driving.