First introduced as a 2004 model, the 350Z Roadster receives most of the enhancements of the Z Coupe for 2006 (except the forged alloy wheels), making a great open-air sports car even more attractive. The Z Roadster features a power-operated soft top with glass rear window, which transforms from top-up to top-down in about 20 seconds.

For 2006, the Nissan 350Z is again available in Coupe and Roadster body styles and in an array of models – five for the Coupe, including a new Grand Touring model, and three for the Roadster (including a new Grand Touring automatic transmission version). Each provides sports car lovers high performance excitement and dynamic driving experience, with a style all its own. Every Z® comes with a standard 3.5-liter DOHC V6 producing 287 horsepower* and 274 lb-ft torque when equipped and with the 5-speed automatic transmission, or 300 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque for all 6-speed manual transmission models. Grand Touring models include Brembo® brakes, rear spoiler (plus front spoiler on Coupe) and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC).

Other enhancements for the new year include standard 18-inch cast aluminum-alloy wheels (except Coupe Track and Grand Touring models), increased brake rotor size for non-Brembo models, standard bi-xenon (low and high beam) headlights, and mp3-CD capability for the available Bose® audio system. Three new exterior colors (eight total) are available for 2006: Silver Alloy, Magnetic Black, and Interlagos Fire.

Adrenalin rush

Now enthusiasts wanting to enjoy the heady mix of performance and the adrenalin rush only available from a soft top have the answer: the 350Z Roadster. It’s a car that promises all the appeal of the 350Z Coupé with the added bonus of fresh air fun: truly the best of both worlds. The Nissan 350Z Roadster has been designed without compromise. Propelled by the same awardwinning 3.5-litre V6 engine as the Coupé and with the same chassis, the Roadster adds another chapter to the Z story.

Automatic soft top

The most striking feature of the 350Z Roadster is its automatic soft top, which takes 20 seconds to raise or lower. When lowered, the roof stows away under a lightweight tonneau cover made from thermo-plastic resin – also electrically powered – in front of the boot lid, and reveals a pair of sculpted domes behind the seats. A small glass wind deflector is fitted between the seats to reduce the levels of turbulent air entering the cockpit. When raised, it is held firmly in place by a triple lock/single latch system, which secures the roof to the windscreen header rail in three places following a pull of the central latch. A heated glass rear window helps ensure good visibility in all weathers

Tuned exhaust

Along with a powerful engine, the Z® produces a powerful sports car sound to match – one without the low frequency booming or rumbling that can grow tiresome on long trips or high-pitched mechanical sounds. The exhaust sound is maximized at low RPM (1,000-3,500 RPM), but quiet at normal cruising range. Intake sound is maximized at high RPM (3,500-6,000 RPM), especially at wide throttle openings, but toned down during cruising. With a tuned exhaust note, the all-alloy 24-valve twin cam motor has Nissan’s Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS) to help it deliver optimum performance and torque. The propshaft follows motor racing principles and is made from lightweight carbon fibre.

The result is an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h (155mph) while 0-100km/h (0-62mph) takes 6.4 seconds. Racing suspension A low centre of gravity and 53/47 front-to-rear weight distribution coupled with a wide track and lightweight forged aluminium multi-link independent suspension ensure good handling balance while high levels of grip are provided by the Bridgestone RE040 tyres mounted on handsome alloy wheels. Following racing principles, both front and rear suspension assemblies are mounted on separate sub-frames. Stopping power is enhanced by Brembo brakes featuring the company’s signature gold coloured callipers.