2007 NISSAN 350Z TRACK

Our late-2007 350Z Track edition is distinguished by a pronounced bulge in the bonnet. The more correct term is power dome, and it’s necessary to accommodate the strut brace above a heavily revised V6 with longer con rods. This VQ35HR engine redlines at 7500rpm and really likes to flex its muscles. It’s well suited to Nissan’s robust six-speed manual that lends a strong mechanical feel to short throws and is adept at extracting the best from the motor. Factor in a limited slip diff and meaty steering and you have an entertaining recipe for a compact GT.

An obvious trade-off for chuckable dimensions is two seats and modest overall utility, not that it bothers us at all. Despite the Track spec, our car has only ever seen occasional commuting and touring duties. It excels as a comfy and punchy tourer that’s supremely effective in passing lanes and easily capable of dispatching Auckland to Wellington on a single tank (although much credit goes to the 80-litre tank capacity).

The car has had an unusally pampered life, evidenced by a Nissan service stamp on each anniversary of the original purchase date. We were drawn to its originality and very low mileage, both of which should help preserve collector interest.

Driven one? Own one? Share your 350Z experience: keepers@kiwigarage.co.nz