Nissan engineers certainly did their homework on this one, since this Roadster feels just as solid and scuttle free as the coupe version. That makes it a very comfortable car - no shakes, no rattles, no nasty tings to give you a headache.

2004 Nissan 350z Convertible

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2004 Nissan 350z Convertible
  • Horsepower: 287@0
  • Transmission: 6-Speed Manual

1998 Nissan Sentra 200SX

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 1998 Nissan Sentra 200SX
  • Engine/Motor: 3.5 liter V6
  • Horsepower: 300@0
  • Torque: 3600
  • Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

The Nissan 350z Convertible is decently fast (0-60mph in 5.8 seconds, top speed about 150mph) and on the highway, it climbs up to speed very quickly and smoothly. At most times, I'd stay in 6th gear and feed in the throttle, and it would do very naughty speeds, very easily. More impressively, this car is very, very stable at high speeds. At 135mph (on a closed private runway), it feels more stable than some supercars. Top-down aerodynamics are good too, making it a comfy car to drive top down on the motorway.

The six-speed manual gearbox is horrid. It feels neither meaty or flimsy, it's a new in between that two, and thus very unsatisfactory to use. I really don't like it! If I were to buy this car, I'd honestly opt for the automatic version (auto is a no cost option). The clutch is similarly as unsatisfactory, so even more reasons to buy one with an auto-box.

Surprisingly Nissan's 350z Convertible engine also feels rough and stressed at city speeds. It used the same 3.5 liter V6 as in the coupe and which produces a healthy 287 hp and 274 lb/ft of torque. That might sound like decent power, but it doesn't feel like it. Like I said before, it is great on highway speeds, but in the city, it struggles to give you rocketship starts. It's actually quite a tiring car to drive in town.