As we approached the end of the 2010s, the Nissan 370Z was becoming outdated. Speculation about a new model was swirling, but Nissan cleverly kept the specifics under wraps. Then came 2020, bringing the Nissan Z Proto—the prototype that was nearly ready for production and would soon be released as the new Nissan Z. But did this new iteration really offer something fresh?
Initial Concerns
As the 370Z neared its final days, its sales numbers dwindled significantly, leading many to question the justification for a successor. Nissan’s team maintained that the Z model was an iconic part of their legacy that must be preserved. However, given the company’s struggles financially, one could reasonably doubt whether they would allocate funds for a new low-production sports car in a declining market.
Our doubts grew as we examined the Z Proto closely. A detailed comparison revealed many design features that mirrored those of the aging 370Z. The roofline, door shapes, and side windows were strikingly similar. Elements like the double-bubble roof and panel cutlines were also almost identical, suggesting that many parts were assembled in the same locations as the old model.
The interior was truly revealing as well. Despite the flashy screens, the dashboard and the air vents mounted on the doors resembled those of the previous model closely. The center armrest, cupholder behind the shifter, door handles, window switches, and lock controls were also nearly the same. While the climate control knobs and the analog gauges saw some modern updates, overall, the interior felt familiar.
Nissan eventually acknowledged some of these concerns by revealing that the new Z is coded as chassis RZ34. In contrast, the 370Z was Z34. This detail was significant since while the 370Z shared many components with the previous 350Z (chassis code Z33), Nissan engineers believed they had made enough modifications for a new chassis code. The new Z, however, did not seem to merit such a distinction.
What sets the 370Z apart from the Z?
While it’s not accurate to say the new Z is completely the same as the 370Z mechanically, it isn’t dramatically different either. Nissan later confirmed they refined the FM platform (originally from the 350Z) by adding new reinforcements in various areas, including the engine bay, roof, taillights, and between the rear wheels. This upgrade has improved the car’s structural integrity and flexibility (twisting ability), aiding in better handling. (A flexing chassis decreases suspension efficiency during cornering.)
After addressing the structure, the engineers turned their focus to installing a contemporary engine. The previous 3.7-liter V-6 was removed, making way for a new 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 sourced from the Infiniti Q50/Q60 Red Sport 400. To adapt to the new Z chassis, a redesigned exhaust system was necessary, and a boost recirculation valve was integrated into the turbochargers to maintain their rotation when the throttle was closed. Despite these changes, the power output remained at 400 hp and 350 lb-ft, representing a notable upgrade from the 370Z’s 350 hp and 276 lb-ft.
For the transmission, Nissan opted to keep the same six-speed manual but enhanced it with upgraded synchronizers on the first two gears, a new flywheel, and smoother shift linkage. The automatic transmission also received a significant upgrade; the previous seven-speed was replaced with a new nine-speed featuring a lightweight magnesium casing and specific programming for the Z.
Once the drivetrain was optimized, engineers shifted their focus to the suspension system. While the 370Z performed well in its era, advancements over the last 12 years had to be incorporated. The introduction of lower-friction Tokico monotube shocks enabled the team to enhance spring, damper, and anti-roll bar rates without compromising ride comfort. Additionally, the front suspension caster was increased, leading to a larger contact patch for the front wheels and an improvement in steering feel and straight-line stability. Front tire width was also expanded to boost the contact patch size and lateral grip.
Next on the agenda was the interior revamp. The outdated analog instrument cluster has been replaced with a customizable screen that is now controlled via buttons on a redesigned steering wheel. Additionally, the old infotainment system has been modernized with a large touchscreen. The climate control knobs received an upgrade, and the panels around the shifter were redesigned. New door cards were added, and fresh seats took their place. On the dashboard, traditional water temperature and battery voltage gauges, as well as a digital clock, have been replaced with new analog turbo speed, boost pressure, and battery voltage gauges.
Finally, the exterior was completely refreshed with new body panels that reflect the design evolution of the Z series over the years. The front features headlights and a rectangular grille reminiscent of the classic 240Z, while the rear showcases pill-shaped taillights that harken back to the later 300ZX models.
According to industry standards, this model is seen as a significant refresh rather than a completely new vehicle. Much of the chassis and suspension remains unchanged, as does much of the interior layout. While the appearance has certainly been modernized, key elements like the powertrain, dashboard, and shock absorbers have been replaced. In essence, the new Nissan Z is an evolved version of the 370Z, which itself was a heavily revised iteration of the 350Z that dates back many years.
So, why is this happening?
It’s important to recall that Nissan was not in a strong financial position when they decided to develop the new Z, and the sales of the Z model have never justified significant investment. These financial constraints heavily influenced every choice made regarding the Z, as the engineers later acknowledged. Making minor updates to the chassis was far cheaper than creating an entirely new chassis or implementing substantial modifications. Utilizing existing powertrain components from other, more profitable cars, along with reusing the previous manual transmission, significantly reduced engineering costs. By maintaining much of the suspension design and only upgrading certain elements, additional savings were achieved. The approach was similar for the interior, where many of the components remained unchanged, with only the oldest elements receiving upgrades. This strategy allowed for sufficient funds to be allocated towards nearly entirely new exterior designs, ensuring the car had a fresh appearance.
Would the new Z be the vehicle that Nissan’s engineers, designers, and executives would have envisioned with a larger budget? Likely not. However, given their limited resources, it was the best compromise available, providing the highest number of updates where necessary. Despite being largely the same beneath the surface, the new Z convincingly manages to stand apart from the 370Z.
