2008 Nissan 350Z Roadster
Based on analysis of 26 350Z-Roadster reviews and test drives.
Nissan 350Z Roadster - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Nissan 350Z Roadster ranks 3 out of 10 Affordable Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 26 published reviews and test drives of the Nissan 350Z Roadster, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 350Z Roadster ranks in the top half of its class for its sporty, yet practical, handling, comfortable bucket seats and long list of features. Still, its limited visibility and low grade materials detract from its overall appeal.
The 2008 Nissan 350Z Roadster offers a thrilling sports car performance, as well as an eye-catching top-down cruise. Forbes says the 350z Roadster is a good choice "if you want a quick nimble and fun open-air sports car that's comfortable enough for daily driving and highway cruising; you're a fan of the original 240Z and appreciate the 30-year heritage that traces back to it from today's Z car." Still, the 350Z is not perfect. Its front end is difficult to see from the driver's position, and its cabin is plagued by difficult access and sub-par materials.
Available in three trims -- Enthusiast, Touring and Grand Touring -- the rear-wheel drive 350Z Roadster features a 306-horespower V6 engine that propels it from 0-60 miles per hour in less than six seconds.
- "The first task of a sports car is to make the driver happy. The second is to look cool. Nissan's 350Z Roadster hits a bull's-eye on both." -- USA Today
- "Think of the Mustang GT as Jake LaMotta, a punch-drunk heavyweight making a comeback from the brink of retirement. With a 300-horse V-8, it still packs quite a wallop. The 350Z, on the other hand, is Jackie Chan, kickboxing the competition with faster moves, quicker reflexes, and a more animated personality." -- Motor Trend
350Z-Roadster Performance - 8.9 (Very Good)
Test drivers agree that the 350Z offers just enough sportiness and practicality to attract a wide range of drivers. "And given its sporting credentials, the Z is easy to live with even when the top is raised," writes the New York Times. The 350Z Roadster ranks near the top of its class for performance. Continue with our full 350Z Roadster Performance Review to learn why test drivers find it difficult to park. continue
350Z-Roadster Exterior - 6.9 (Mediocre)
Though few critics are entirely dissatisfied with the 350Z Roadster's exterior design, most aren't terribly impressed either. What's more, most agree that it looks better with it's down. "With the softtop up, as it'll be in all but the sunniest of climes, the 350Z loses its long-hood, short-deck proportions, the rear stack height needed to clear the folding-top apparatus giving the car an acute case of bubble butt," writes Motor Trend. Subsequently, the 2008 350Z Roadster's exterior design scores low within its class. Continue with our full 350Z Roadster Exterior Review to read what reviewers think of its quick folding convertible top and body-color tonneau cover, or check out our photo gallery. continue
350Z-Roadster Interior - 6.5 (Mediocre)
Reviews are, on balance, positive about the 350Z Roadster's interior, and generally find its seats to be both comfortable and supportive. Still, it isn't without its faults. In addition to low quality materials, Forbes notes that "the less-limber might find access a challenge, particularly with the top up." Continue with our full 350Z Roadster Interior Review to read why one reviewer says the Z's sound system offers a "muddy listening experience," or go to the 2008 350Z Photo Gallery to see pictures of the its interior cabin. continue
350Z-Roadster Safety - NA
The 350Z Roadster performs well in federal government crash tests and comes equipped with plenty of active and passive safety features -- including Traction Control and an Advanced Air Bag System (AABS). Continue with our full 350Z Roadster Safety Review to read up on the Z's other standard safety features. continue
350Z-Roadster Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Nissan 350Z Roadster reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Nissan offers competitive warranty coverage on all of its cars, including a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full 350Z Roadster Reliability Review to learn about Nissan's competitive powertrain warranty. continue
