Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Autoblog speaks with Nissan 370Z designer Randy Rodriguez at 23rd annual Z Car Convention]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/03/autoblog-speaks-with-nissan-370z-designer-randy-rodriguez-at-23r/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/03/autoblog-speaks-with-nissan-370z-designer-randy-rodriguez-at-23r/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/03/autoblog-speaks-with-nissan-370z-designer-randy-rodriguez-at-23r/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Randy Rodriguez, designer of the Nissan 370Z - Click above to read the interview

It's a rare thing to see a car penned by someone who's a die-hard fan. More often than not, designers are assigned to vehicles they have little or no emotional attachment to, and as such, the car buying public is regularly supplied with a slurry of bland appliances that do little to acknowledge a car's model history and next to nothing to advance the vehicle aesthetically.

Thankfully, that's not the case with the Nissan 370Z. Randy Rodriguez, the guy behind the original design of the 370Z, had owned 10 different Z cars before he sat down to sketch out the latest iteration of Nissan's low-buck sports machine. Autoblog had the chance to catch up with Rodriguez at the Z's 40th birthday bash last weekend in Franklin, TN. Hit the jump to read a few excerpts from the conversation, including talk about alternatively powered future Zs and how he drew inspiration for the car's look from the Discovery Channel.


Gallery: 23rd Annual Z Car Convention


Photos by Zach Bowman / Copyright (C)2010 AOL

Continue reading Autoblog speaks with Nissan 370Z designer Randy Rodriguez at 23rd annual Z Car Convention

Autoblog speaks with Nissan 370Z designer Randy Rodriguez at 23rd annual Z Car Convention originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>370 z370Z370Z 40th Anniversary Edition370z40thAnniversaryEditiondiscovery channelDiscoveryChannelfeaturedLA Design ChallengeLaDesignChallengeNissan 370ZNissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Editionnissan znissan zedNissan370zNissan370z40thAnniversaryEditionNissanZNissanZedoptimus crimeOptimusCrimeRandy RodriguezRandyRodriguezshark weekSharkWeektransformersZZ CarZ Car ConventionZCarZCarConventionTue, 03 Aug 2010 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19578181/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/03/autoblog-speaks-with-nissan-370z-designer-randy-rodriguez-at-23r/19578181/article-detail.xml 19578181 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/rr-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/rr-630.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog attends 23rd annual Nissan Z Car Convention]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/02/autoblog-attends-23rd-annual-nissan-z-car-convention/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/02/autoblog-attends-23rd-annual-nissan-z-car-convention/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/02/autoblog-attends-23rd-annual-nissan-z-car-convention/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


23rd Nissan Z Car Convention - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Nissan North America headquarters in Franklin, Tennessee played host to the 23rd Annual Z Car Convention this past weekend. While we missed out on Friday's autocross and drift challenge action, we were on hand Saturday morning for the car show. Owners from around the country rolled out their pieces of Z history, from the 240Z to the 370Z. Nissan itself pulled a few heritage models out of the mothballs and parked them on the lawn for all to enjoy. Talk about tasty.

There were even a handful of vintage machines with nary a Z or Fairlady badge in their bloodline on display as well. We were particularly smitten with the blue Patrol poised to go where no 240Z had gone before. Likewise, there were a bevy of cars from the Z's racing history nestled at the foot of the Nissan tower. No matter how hard we begged, the Nissan crew wouldn't let play with the East African Safari 240Z in the open fields around the headquarters, but they did trot out the refreshed 2011 Rogue crossover, and more to the point, they were kind enough to let us have a peek under the fiberglass of Paul Newman's Bob Sharp prepared 1981 Datsun ZX Turbo. That'll do.


Gallery: 23rd Annual Z Car Convention


Photos by Zach Bowman / Copyright (C)2010 AOL

Autoblog attends 23rd annual Nissan Z Car Convention originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Z Car Convention2010ZCarConvention240Z280Z350z370ZAutocrossDriftNissan 240ZNissan 370ZNissan ZNissan240zNissan370zNissanZZ carZ Car ConventionZCarZCarConventionMon, 02 Aug 2010 12:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19577435/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/02/autoblog-attends-23rd-annual-nissan-z-car-convention/19577435/article-detail.xml 19577435 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/01-z-630-1280759548_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/01-z-630-1280759548.jpg <![CDATA[Rumormill: Nissan considering Leaf-based EV sportscar]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/19/rumormill-nissan-considering-leaf-based-ev-sportscar/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/19/rumormill-nissan-considering-leaf-based-ev-sportscar/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/19/rumormill-nissan-considering-leaf-based-ev-sportscar/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Nissan is reportedly considering building a sports car based on the electric drive hardware from its new Leaf EV. From a business perspective, it would likely make sense for Nissan to follow the same path set forth by Toyota/Lexus with premium hybrid models, and indeed, the Leaf is already pegged to get a pricier sibling at Infiniti. A premium battery electric vehicle could be sold a significantly higher price point, helping to subsidize the cost of more mainstream models like the Leaf.

The big question is what platform to use. Mercedes-Benz and Audi are both developing electric versions of their respective supercars. Nissan could do a battery powered version of the 370Z, which has both its positives and negatives. The Z is relatively lightweight for a modern car, although its small size could make packaging the battery problematic. A more likely scenario might be a version of the 2009 Infiniti Essence concept which was originally shown as a hybrid. The larger car would allow for more battery and range.

A third possibility that might actually be the best option is a new car based on the Leaf platform but with the motor moved to the rear axle. The compact size of the electric motor could make packaging easier than with an internal combustion vehicle, and much of the rest of the hardware could stay the same.

[Source: Inside Line]

Rumormill: Nissan considering Leaf-based EV sportscar originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Jul 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 leaf2011LeafInfinitiinfiniti electric sports carInfinitiElectricSportsCarleafnissannissan 370znissan electric sports carnissan evNissan LeafNissan LEAF EVNissan370zNissanElectricSportsCarNissanEvNissanLeafNissanLeafEvMon, 19 Jul 2010 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19559721/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/19/rumormill-nissan-considering-leaf-based-ev-sportscar/19559721/article-detail.xml 19559721 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/370leaf01-thumb-717x478_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/370leaf01-thumb-717x478.jpg <![CDATA[Rumormill: Next-gen Nissan Z to get Mercedes V6, I4-hybrid?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/03/rumormill-next-gen-nissan-z-to-get-mercedes-v6-i4-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/03/rumormill-next-gen-nissan-z-to-get-mercedes-v6-i4-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/03/rumormill-next-gen-nissan-z-to-get-mercedes-v6-i4-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Nissan 370Z 40th anniversary - Click above for high-res image gallery

Given the reality of upcoming CO2 emissions regulations in both Europe and North America, it's not much of a stretch to assume that the next generation Nissan Z will get more fuel efficient. How Nissan will manage to extract those extra miles per gallon and reduced emissions is purely conjecture on the part of everyone outside of Nissan's engineering staff at this point.

Thankfully, the British motoring press has no aversion to speculation or even simply stuff up. In the wake of the cooperation deal between Daimler and the Renault-Nissan alliance, the future of the Z is a ripe target for such prognostication. Could the 370Z successor get a version of the 3.5-liter V6 hybrid powertrain from the Mercedes S400? How about a V6 diesel or inline-four diesel-hybrid?

Anything's possible, but not necessarily probable. Given the personality that customers expect from a Z, we think something along the lines of a downsized, boosted gasoline V6 is a much more likely configuration. The relatively low volumes of the Z would easily be balanced out by all of the electric vehicles Nissan is planning to build without having to do anything too radical to the sports car.


Gallery: Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition


[Source: Autocar]

Rumormill: Next-gen Nissan Z to get Mercedes V6, I4-hybrid? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Jun 2010 10:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nissannissan 370znissan 370z hybridnissan mercedes-benznissan mercedes-benz z hybridnissan znissan z dieselnissan z hybridNissan370zNissan370zHybridNissanMercedes-benzNissanMercedes-benzZHybridNissanZNissanZDieselNissanZHybridThu, 03 Jun 2010 10:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19501229/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/03/rumormill-next-gen-nissan-z-to-get-mercedes-v6-i4-hybrid/19501229/article-detail.xml 19501229 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/40z00-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/40z00-630.jpg <![CDATA[Battle of the Sixes: Ford Mustang V6 takes on Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 and Nissan 370Z]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/17/battle-of-the-sixes-mustang-v6-takes-on-genesis-coupe-and-370z/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/17/battle-of-the-sixes-mustang-v6-takes-on-genesis-coupe-and-370z/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/17/battle-of-the-sixes-mustang-v6-takes-on-genesis-coupe-and-370z/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

V6 Sports Car Comparison - Click above for high-res image gallery

This comparison test couldn't have happened just a few short months ago. Sure, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe has been around since 2009. And not counting a seven-year walkabout, the Datsun/Nissan Z has been with us in one form or another since the first moon landing. Want to talk old? The Ford Mustang dates back to the invention of the wheel. At least it seems that way.

So why no comparison until now? Because until quite recently, Ford's entry level V6-powered Mustang was never really a sports car. The heavy, near impotent Cologne iron-block V6 was a joke, fit for little more than rental car duty, and it wasn't even terribly adept at that. But the non-V8 pony car has undergone some significant changes for 2011 - the biggest being its all-aluminum V6 producing 305 horsepower and 280 pound feet of torque - allowing it to finally hang with these two V6-powered competitors from across the Pacific.

At least on paper.

Read on to find out which V6-powered sports car reigns supreme. If you can't wait, skip right to the results.


Gallery: V6 Sports Car Comparison: Mustang vs Genesis Coupe vs 370Z


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Battle of the Sixes: Ford Mustang V6 takes on Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 and Nissan 370Z

Battle of the Sixes: Ford Mustang V6 takes on Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 and Nissan 370Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 May 2010 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 nissan 370z2010Nissan370z2011 ford mustang v62011FordMustangV6370zcomparisonfeaturedford mustangford mustang v6FordMustangFordMustangV6genesisgenesis coupeGenesisCoupehyundai genesis coupeHyundaiGenesisCoupemustangmustang v6MustangV6nissan 370zNissan370zsports car comparisonsports car comparoSportsCarComparisonSportsCarComparoMon, 17 May 2010 11:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19479265/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/05/17/battle-of-the-sixes-mustang-v6-takes-on-genesis-coupe-and-370z/19479265/article-detail.xml 19479265 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/01v6sportscarcomparoopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/01v6sportscarcomparoopt.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan commemorates first Z-car championship with BRE 370Z]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/30/nissan-commemorates-first-z-car-championship-with-bre-370z/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/30/nissan-commemorates-first-z-car-championship-with-bre-370z/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/30/nissan-commemorates-first-z-car-championship-with-bre-370z/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Nissan BRE 370Z - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nissan is celebrating the 40th anniversary of Pete Brock's famous toppling of the Germans and Brits at the SCCA Championships at Road Atlanta in 1970, and with it comes the BRE 370Z, a liveried nod to Nissan's storied racing heritage.

Coated in Brock's iconic red, white and blue paint scheme, the BRE 370Z made its debut yesterday at Road Atlanda during the Classic Motorsports Mitty, and comes packing enough kit to make it eligible to run in the SCCA's T2 championship. Nissan plans to show off the Z across the country this summer, including a stint at ZCon this July in Nashville, but don't expect the tri-colored coupe to hit dealers anytime soon - it's strictly a show car for now.

Bone up on your BRE history and get all the details in the press release after the jump.


Gallery: Nissan BRE 370Z

Continue reading Nissan commemorates first Z-car championship with BRE 370Z

Nissan commemorates first Z-car championship with BRE 370Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Apr 2010 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>370zbrebre 370zBre370znissannissan 370znissan 370z breNissan370zNissan370zBrepeter brockPeterBrockFri, 30 Apr 2010 17:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19460998/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/30/nissan-commemorates-first-z-car-championship-with-bre-370z/19460998/article-detail.xml 19460998 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/nissan-bre-nismo-370z-026-630-1272664473_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/nissan-bre-nismo-370z-026-630-1272664473.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Shell makes a Nissan 370Z for the Invisible Man to showcase lubricants]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/21/video-shell-makes-a-nissan-370z-for-the-invisible-man-to-showca/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/21/video-shell-makes-a-nissan-370z-for-the-invisible-man-to-showca/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/21/video-shell-makes-a-nissan-370z-for-the-invisible-man-to-showca/#commentsFiled under: ,

Shell Helix commercial - Click above to view the videos after the jump

Shell's commissioned ad agency JWT to create a spot showing off the wondrous properties of Shell's Helix lubricants. JWT then commissioned Asylum Models and Effects to create a transparent Nissan 370Z out of Perspex. While we're surprised that - Shell being Shell - they didn't use a Ferrari, after watching the commercial's companion making-of video, we think we get it. And hey, we're not going to sneeze at a working, transparent car no matter what it is. Follow the jump for both videos.

[Source: Paul Tan]

Continue reading Video: Shell makes a Nissan 370Z for the Invisible Man to showcase lubricants

Video: Shell makes a Nissan 370Z for the Invisible Man to showcase lubricants originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Apr 2010 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adcommercialhelixlubricantnissan 370zNissan370zoilshellshell helixShellHelixWed, 21 Apr 2010 19:24:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19447286/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/21/video-shell-makes-a-nissan-370z-for-the-invisible-man-to-showca/19447286/article-detail.xml 19447286 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/shellhelixz_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/shellhelixz.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan working on BRE 370Z to mark car's 40th anniversary]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/20/nissan-working-on-bre-spec-370z-to-mark-cars-40th-anniversary/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/20/nissan-working-on-bre-spec-370z-to-mark-cars-40th-anniversary/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/20/nissan-working-on-bre-spec-370z-to-mark-cars-40th-anniversary/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BRE Nismo Z getting painted for the Walter Mitty Challenge - Click above for high-res image gallery

It looks like there will be more than one car showing up the Walter Mitty Challenge at Road Atlanta next month wearing the colors of Pete Brock's BRE racing team. Just days after Mazda announced that it had prepared a BRE-liveried MX-5 for the Playboy MX-5 Cup, Nissan has announced that it is working on a Nismo 370Z with a similar color scheme.

The Nissan is, of course, a descendant of the Datsun 240Z John Morton drove to BRE's first SCCA National Championship in 1970. While the Miata got a very literal interpretation of the original BRE paint job, Brock has apparently worked with painters at Nissan to produce a modern iteration. The Z will be revealed at a special dinner at Road Atlanta on April 29 to kick off the big weekend of vintage racing.

The car has been built to SCCA T2 specs, and plans call for it to do some racing at Z Club events and SCCA regionals this summer.


Gallery: 40th Anniversary BRE Nissan 370Z


[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Nissan working on BRE 370Z to mark car's 40th anniversary

Nissan working on BRE 370Z to mark car's 40th anniversary originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Apr 2010 16:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brebrock racing enterprisesBrockRacingEnterprisesDatsundatsun 240zdatsun 510Datsun240zDatsun510john mortonJohnMortonmittynismonissannissan 370znissan nismonissan nismo 370zNissan370zNissanNismoNissanNismo370zpete brockPeteBrockpeter brockPeterBrockthe mittyTheMittywalter mitty challengeWalterMittyChallengeTue, 20 Apr 2010 16:19:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19447387/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/20/nissan-working-on-bre-spec-370z-to-mark-cars-40th-anniversary/19447387/article-detail.xml 19447387 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/breliveriesformitty157-copy-1271789736_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/breliveriesformitty157-copy-1271789736.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Take a walk down Nissan Z-car memory lane, look into the future]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/30/video-take-a-walk-down-nissan-z-car-memory-lane/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/30/video-take-a-walk-down-nissan-z-car-memory-lane/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/30/video-take-a-walk-down-nissan-z-car-memory-lane/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

40th Anniversary Nissan 370Z party invitation - Click above to see the video after the jump

A while back we showed you the 40th Anniversary Nissan 370Z. The special package for the 370Z adds a healthy dose of show and a wee dash of go to the already heady mix of Z-car sportiness. It's hard to believe we've had 40 years of Z-cars - the car that became the best-selling sportscar series of all time with its perfect blend of performance, styling and value. Coincidentally, Los Angeles area Nissan dealer Universal City Nissan is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year as well.

Sounds like the makings of a great party, doesn't it? Universal City is pulling out all the stops, inviting Z-car enthusiasts and anyone else who wants to have a good time down for the celebration. Those who register at the company's website will get a coupon redeemable for some free Kogi Korean BBQ, too, as if the unveiling of the 40th Anniversary Z wasn't enough. Well, there's actually more to the deal.

According to the website, there's a whole day of activities planned, starting with a visit to the Datsun Heritage Museum in Murrieta, CA. Guests will get a tour of the museum and snacks before the gang caravans up to Universal City Nissan in Los Angeles. That's where the Kogi BBQ truck will be, along with a local radio station that will be broadcasting live and giving away 40th Anniversary swag.

The grand finale will be the unveiling of both the Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition and the first 2010 Nismo Edition 370Z made. Sounds like a great day of Z-car action. To whet our appetites, they've even put together a fun video scrapbook featuring 40 years of Nissan Z-car commercials and insider videos that we've embedded after the jump. So check it out and click on over to the Universal City site to register.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Take a walk down Nissan Z-car memory lane, look into the future

Video: Take a walk down Nissan Z-car memory lane, look into the future originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Mar 2010 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 40th Anniversary Nissan 370z201040thAnniversaryNissan370z370z40th Anniversary Nissan 370z40thAnniversaryNissan370znismoNismo 370ZNismo370znissannissan 370zNissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Editionnissan 370z nismoNissan370zNissan370z40thAnniversaryEditionNissan370zNismouniversal cityUniversalCityz-carTue, 30 Mar 2010 14:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19419169/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/30/video-take-a-walk-down-nissan-z-car-memory-lane/19419169/article-detail.xml 19419169 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/40thanniv370zparty_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/40thanniv370zparty.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Nissan's head U.S. designer, Bruce Campbell to retire at end of March]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/12/report-nissans-head-u-s-designer-bruce-campbell-to-retire-at/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/12/report-nissans-head-u-s-designer-bruce-campbell-to-retire-at/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/12/report-nissans-head-u-s-designer-bruce-campbell-to-retire-at/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nissan 370Z Roadster by Bruce Campbell - click above for high-res image gallery

When we first met Nissan's vice president-design for North America Bruce Campbell, we were amused by his name. Hey, we've seen Evil Dead II at least fifty times. But after a few minutes of conversation with Nissan's highest-ranking U.S. designer, we were deeply impressed by his humor, ideas about design ("The Corvette looks fast standing still, the 370Z looks fast at speed") and his soft-spoken grace. Sadly, Mr. Campbell is disembarking from the Nissan ship after more than thirty years at sea, reports Wards Auto.

Campbell's career reads like a Nissan greatest design hits list, having worked on the (still fab looking) "Hardbody" trucks, the third-generation Maxima, the Xterra and more recently, the new latest Maxima, the Rogue and the 370Z. Going back to our conversation, Bruce explained to us that the 350Z was designed only as a coupe, and that the 350Z Roadster looked odd because it was an afterthought. From the start, the 370Z was designed to be both a coupe and a convertible. We think he did well. We also think that his successor and current European design chief Alfonso Albaisa has some pretty big shoes to fill.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster

nissan370zroadster000nissan370zroadster001nissan370zroadster002nissan370zroadster003nissan370zroadster004

Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Wards Auto]

Report: Nissan's head U.S. designer, Bruce Campbell to retire at end of March originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>370Z370Z Roadster370zRoadsterAlfonso AlbaisaAlfonsoAlbaisaBruce CampbellBruce Campbell NissanBruceCampbellBruceCampbellNissanNissanNissan 370ZNissan 370Z RoadsterNissan Bruce Campbellnissan designnissan design americaNissan370zNissan370zRoadsterNissanBruceCampbellNissanDesignNissanDesignAmericaFri, 12 Mar 2010 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19396074/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/12/report-nissans-head-u-s-designer-bruce-campbell-to-retire-at/19396074/article-detail.xml 19396074 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/630z_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/630z.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition unveiled with no added performance]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-nissan-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-unveiled-with/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-nissan-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-unveiled-with/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-nissan-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-unveiled-with/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nissan just unwrapped a 40th Anniversary gift to itself at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show. More specifically, it's celebrating the 40th anniversary of one of its most iconic vehicles, the Z car, with a special edition version of the latest in a long line of formidable sportscars to wear that badge. The limited edition 2010 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary model is actually a bit late to the party since the original 240Z technically debuted in North America on October 22, 1969... but who's counting.

Whereas the 1970 240Z was a revolution in the affordable sportscar scene with a sticker at just $3,626, the 40th Anniversary Edition will start at $38,860. That represents a premium of about $1,200 over Touring Coupe with Sport Package on which it's based. So what do you get by checking off that 40th Anniversary box? Nothing under the hood, in case you were wondering.

That's okay, we guess, as the Touring is already a hot car and the Sport package adds SynchroRev Match for the six-speed stick, a front chin spoiler, rear spoiler, Nissan Sport Brakes, 19-inch Rays forged aluminum-alloy wheels and the limited-slip diff. Basically it's a sticker package with a unique "40th Graphite" paint job, red leather interior, a "high-luster smoke wheel finish," red brake calipers and 40th Anniversary badges on the rear hatch and the front shock tower brace. The gray color and smoked wheels do look great in person, though.

There are also additional changes inside, like red door panel inserts, 40th Anniversary logos in the seatbacks and on the floormats, red stitching on the center stack, shift boot and kneepads, red-stitched leather on the steering wheel and a 40th commemorative plaque. It even comes with a commemorative "premium satin car cover."

Beginning later this month, the 1,000 units will start making their way to dealer showrooms. You can read even more details in the press release after the jump, and see some live shots and the official high-res pics in the gallery below.


Gallery: Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition at Chicago Auto Show


Gallery: 2010 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition


Live photos copyright (C)2010 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Chicago 2010: Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition unveiled with no added performance

Chicago 2010: Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition unveiled with no added performance originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 11:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 370Z2010 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition2010 Nissan2010 nissan 370z2010 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition2010370z2010370z40thAnniversaryEdition2010Nissan2010Nissan370z2010Nissan370z40thAnniversaryEdition370Z370Z 40th Anniversary Edition370z40thAnniversaryEdition40th Anniversary Edition40th Anniversary Edition 370Z40th Anniversary Edition Nissan 370Z40thAnniversaryEdition40thAnniversaryEdition370z40thAnniversaryEditionNissan370zAnniversary Edition 370ZAnniversary Edition Nissan 370ZAnniversaryEdition370zAnniversaryEditionNissan370zChicagoChicago 2010Chicago Auto ShowChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowNissanNissan 370ZNissan 370Z 40th AnniversaryNissan 370Z 40th Anniversary EditionNissan370zNissan370z40thAnniversaryNissan370z40thAnniversaryEditionWed, 10 Feb 2010 11:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19351976/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-nissan-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-unveiled-with/19351976/article-detail.xml 19351976 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/370zanni000opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/370zanni000opt.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2011 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition spotted]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/25/spy-shots-2011-nissan-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/25/spy-shots-2011-nissan-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/25/spy-shots-2011-nissan-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-spotted/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The crew over at Inside Line got its hands on some rather curious spy photos of the new 2011 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition. Why curious? Most of the time, spy photographers work from behind massive lenses at long distances because the secretive engineers don't want themselves or the car they're testing to be photographed. But these shots look almost... composed. Or at least like the person manning the camera is on a first name basis with the folks at Nissan.

Regardless, these are clearly photographs of the soon to be released 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition. As we've known for some time, there's not too much to the 40th Anniversary Z above and beyond a couple of badges. The slate gray body color and matching wheel color are unique to the limited edition coupe, as are the red brake calipers, but the wheels themselves are the optional 19-inchers from the standard 370Z.

Inside, IL claim's you'll find the "standard Z Touring seats" covered in red leather. But how can they tell what specific type of seats are in a car by looking at photos? Mechanically, we all have to wait until the Chicago Auto Show before we get the details, but Inside Line confirms a rumor we heard that the 40th Anniversary car might be more NISMO than standard Z. If Nissan decides to imbue the 40th Anniversary model with 350 horsepower (or more), along with the more sporting suspension in a less boy racer-ish body, they'll have quite a compelling performance package on their hands.

According to Inside Line the only exterior badging that distinguishes the 40th Anniversary car from lesser Zs is a small plaque on the car's rear bumper, just below 370Z. What's odd is that this little badge isn't visible in any of the photographs Inside Line posted. Look for yourself. And as far as we've seen, Nissan hasn't released any official photos of the 40th Anniversary car's rump. So how do they know? Could it be that Inside Line has additional "spy photos" of the 40th Anniversary Z's rear and isn't posting them? We kind of doubt that. And what's with the guys standing in front of a dark 1971 Datsun 240Z, seen next to the white Volkswagen GTI? And why would Nissan engineers be driving a VW? We're thinking Inside Line might know a bit more about the 40th Anniversary 370Z than they're telling.


Gallery: Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition


[Source: Inside Line]

Spy Shots: 2011 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition spotted originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Jan 2010 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1971 240Z1971 Datsun 240Z1971240z1971Datsun240z2011 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition2011Nissan370z40thAnniversaryEdition240Z370Z40th Anniversary Edition 370Z40th Anniversary Edition Nissan 370Z40th Anniversary Edition Z40thAnniversaryEdition370z40thAnniversaryEditionNissan370z40thAnniversaryEditionZDatsun 240ZDatsun240zNissanNissan 370ZNissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Editionnissan nismo 370zNissan370zNissan370z40thAnniversaryEditionNissanNismo370zSpy PhotosSpy ShotsSpyPhotosSpyShotsMon, 25 Jan 2010 14:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19330579/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/01/25/spy-shots-2011-nissan-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-spotted/19330579/article-detail.xml 19330579 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/250z_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/250z.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan announces pricing on 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition, Rogue S Krom Edition [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/nissan-announces-pricing-on-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-rogue/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/nissan-announces-pricing-on-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-rogue/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/nissan-announces-pricing-on-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-rogue/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition - click above for high-res image gallery

We're not apologizing to Nissan, but we were pretty flippantly dismissive of both the 40th Anniversary Z and the Rogue S Krom Edition. Why? Because both struck as as badge jobs. When we think of special edition Nissans, we think of V-Spec, and that typically entails more power and/or pumped up handling. But not with these two cars. Though at least the Krom gets a new front end, which sadly isn't nearly as eye-catching as the nose of the not-for-us 2010 Qashqai.

However, the truth of the matter is that our favorite ever special Nissan was the legendary Black Gold 10th Anniversary Datsun 280ZX (and the even rarer Black Red - only 500 made, as opposed to 3,000 Black Golds). And that car was little more than a plaque and a coke habit paint job. Our point? Nissan had better produce a theme song for this new car.

Anyhow, the prices of both the 40th Z and the Rogue Krom have just been announced. The Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition will set you back $38,860. Some of you might be asking why not spend the extra $330 and get the better-than-a-regular-370Z NISMO for $39,190? Well, Nissan will only be producing 1,000 40th Anniversary Zs. Other than that, we can't think of any reason. The Rogue S Krom Edition comes in at $23,940 for the front-wheel drive version, $25,140 if you want all-wheel drive. The 40AZ will be available in Q2 of 2010, the Krom in late Q3. Press release(s) can be found after the jump, along with a little surprise.


Gallery: Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition


Gallery: 2010 Nissan Rogue Krom Edition


[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Nissan announces pricing on 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition, Rogue S Krom Edition [w/VIDEO]

Nissan announces pricing on 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition, Rogue S Krom Edition [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Nissan 370Z2010 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition2010 Nissan Rogue2010 Nissan Rogue S Krom Edition2010 Nissan Z2010Nissan370z2010Nissan370z40thAnniversaryEdition2010NissanRogue2010NissanRogueSKromEdition2010NissanZ280ZX Black Gold280ZX Black Red280zxBlackGold280zxBlackRed370Z370Z 40th Anniversary Edition370z40thAnniversaryEdition40th 370Z40th Anniversary 370Z40th Anniversary Z40th370z40thAnniversary370z40thAnniversaryZBlack GoldBlack RedBlackGoldBlackRedNisamo 370ZNisamo370zNismoNissannissan 370Znissan roguenissan ZNissan370zNissanRogueNissanZRogueRogue SRogue S KromRogue S Krom EditionRogueSRogueSKromRogueSKromEditionspecial editionSpecialEditionThu, 10 Dec 2009 10:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19272633/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/12/10/nissan-announces-pricing-on-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-rogue/19272633/article-detail.xml 19272633 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/40z_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/40z.jpg <![CDATA[Gran Turismo 5 demo coming to PSN on Dec 17, GT Academy returns [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/gran-turismo-5-demo-coming-to-psn-on-dec-17-gt-academy-returns/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/gran-turismo-5-demo-coming-to-psn-on-dec-17-gt-academy-returns/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/gran-turismo-5-demo-coming-to-psn-on-dec-17-gt-academy-returns/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Click above to watch the video after the jump

Just when we thought we were going to wait until the end of March to get our hands on Gran Turismo 5, our friends at Joystiq tell us that Polyphony Digital will release a demo version of hotly anticipated racing game on December 17. The demo will be available on the Playstation Network for download both in Europe and North America, giving long-patient fans a taste of what the full game will be like when it finally arrives in stores.

And as cool as it is that the demo arrives within two weeks time, even cooler is the fact that gamers will be given the opportunity to compete for some nifty prizes. All you have to do is post your best time trial by January 24, 2010. The best time from the U.S. and Canada wins a trip to the Indianapolis 500. A sweet prize, no doubt, but it doesn't come close to the top Euro prize. The best driver from select European countries gets to enter the GT Academy. After completing training the lucky skilled gamer will race in the European GT4 Cup in a non-virtual race-spec Nissan 370Z. How amazing is that?

It would be even better if GT5 actually shipped on December 17, but it looks like we won't be racing one of the world's best driving simulators until March at the earliest. Hit the jump to view a slick video that contains more information about the GT Academy.


Gallery: Gran Turismo 5 screen shots

top002top004top001top005top003

Gallery: Gran Turismo 5


[Source: Joystiq]

Continue reading Gran Turismo 5 demo coming to PSN on Dec 17, GT Academy returns [w/VIDEO]

Gran Turismo 5 demo coming to PSN on Dec 17, GT Academy returns [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>370Zcontestdriving gameDrivingGameEuropean GT4EuropeanGt4gran turismoGrand TurismoGrandTurismoGranTurismoGT AcademyGT4 CupGt4Cupgt5GtAcademyindianapolis 500Indianapolis500Indy 500Indy500nissan 370ZNissan370zPolyphonyPolyphony digitalPolyphonyDigitalMon, 07 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19266335/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/12/07/gran-turismo-5-demo-coming-to-psn-on-dec-17-gt-academy-returns/19266335/article-detail.xml 19266335 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/370z-gt-academy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/370z-gt-academy.jpg <![CDATA[VIDEO: What would P.J. O'Rourke do with a Nissan 370Z?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/video-what-would-p-j-orourke-do-with-a-nissan-370z/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/video-what-would-p-j-orourke-do-with-a-nissan-370z/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/video-what-would-p-j-orourke-do-with-a-nissan-370z/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Click above to view the video after the jump

You know what's wrong with kids today? We don't either, but one thing we're sure of is that they just don't read enough P.J. O'Rourke. True, Republicanism has fallen totally out of favor among today's youngsters, but that stuff is cyclical. Like when Nixon swept into the 80th Congress -- the GOP was all the rage then. And the Newt Gingrich led 104th Congress was pretty popular for a few minutes back in the Lewinkski-charged Nineties.

Anyhow, O'Rourke is a great Republican. Our favorite, in fact. You all should sit down and read P.J. to your children as bedtime stories. Might we suggest a passage from his 1978 classic, "How to Drive Fast On Drugs While Getting Your Wing-Wang Squeezed and Not Spill Your Drink." Here's a taste:
Even more important than being drunk, however, is having the right car. You have to get a car that handles really well. This is extremely important, and there's a lot of debate on this subject - about what kind of car handles best. Some say a front-engined car; some say a rear-engined car. I say a rented car. Nothing handles better than a rented car. You can go faster, turn corners sharper, and put the transmission into reverse while going forward at a higher rate of speed in a rented car than in any other kind. You can also park without looking, and can use the trunk as an ice chest. Another thing about a rented car is that it's an all-terrain vehicle. Mud, snow, water, woods - you can take a rented car anywhere. True, you can't always get it back - but that's not your problem, is it?
See? As for why we dug this old chestnut up, may we suggest you make the jump and watch the video? P.J. would be so proud.

[Source: YouTube via AutoFiends | Image: Getty]

Continue reading VIDEO: What would P.J. O'Rourke do with a Nissan 370Z?

VIDEO: What would P.J. O'Rourke do with a Nissan 370Z? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>370ZdonutsNissanNissan 370Znissan 370z videoNissan370zNissan370zVideoP.J. ORourkeP.j.OrourkeWed, 21 Oct 2009 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19201476/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/10/21/video-what-would-p-j-orourke-do-with-a-nissan-370z/19201476/article-detail.xml 19201476 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/pj90s_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/pj90s.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition announced [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/nissan-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-announced/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/nissan-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-announced/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/nissan-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

One week from today (October 22) marks the 40-year anniversary of Nissan's Z. Before the Zed, sports cars in North America were usually fragile little carts from Europe with their engines in funny places (or Corvettes). However, once the Datsun 240Z showed up, suddenly us Yanks had access to a fairly priced, good looking little sports car that could run for more than 30 minutes without dumping all its fluids. As the Guinness ad men might say, brilliant!

And, despite a few fits and starts, the Z badge lives on today. To celebrate 40 years of the Japanese sports car, Nissan is releasing the 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition. Here's what that entails, starting with the outside: 40th Quartz paint, "high-luster" smoke 19-inch Rays wheels, red brake calipers and 40th anniversary badges on both the rear hatch and front strut tower brace. Inside you get red leather, 40th anniversary embroidered seats and floor mats, red leather stitching up the center stack (just like the rocking Nismo) and a commemorative plaque. Oh, you get a satin car cover, too.

To which we say: not special enough! Come on Nissan - where's the twin turbos? Or T-Tops? Or a giant wing? What about louvers? Sans serif font? Anything? We appreciate the fact that you're (hopefully) saving your wad for the 50th Anniversary Z (which had better be atomic-powered, BTW) but red stitching and badges? Really? Where's the coke-eye'd Hasslehoff looking dude with the amazing mustache? Oh yeah, he's after the jump, along with his special lady and a very big press release!


Gallery: Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition


[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition announced [w/VIDEO]

Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition announced [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition2010Nissan370z40thAnniversaryEdition240Z370Z370Z 40th Anniversary Edition370z40thAnniversaryEditionDatsunDatsun 240ZDatsun240zNissanNissan 370ZNissan 370Z 40th Anniversary EditionNissan370zNissan370z40thAnniversaryEditionThu, 15 Oct 2009 12:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19197151/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/10/15/nissan-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-announced/19197151/article-detail.xml 19197151 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/40z00_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/40z00_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Germany's Senner Tuning Whitelady Z gets alles weiß mit der Nissan 370Z]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/germanys-senner-tuning-whitelady-z-gets-alles-weisz-mit-der-niss/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/germanys-senner-tuning-whitelady-z-gets-alles-weisz-mit-der-niss/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/germanys-senner-tuning-whitelady-z-gets-alles-weisz-mit-der-niss/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Senner Tuning Whitelady Z - Xlick above image for hi-res gallery

Live long enough and you'll eventually see everything. Especially if you hang around the tuner scene. Now, we've been to SEMA a few times and we've seen some things -- many of which are fairly awful, if not flat out hurtful. However, we're not saying that the Senner Tuning Whitelady Z is hurtful. Nor is it even close to awful. In fact, as far as a tuned Nissan 370Z goes, Senner's Whitelady is on the mild side of the salsa bar. In fact, we think it looks good and the list of what's changed is short.

You've got some KW coilovers replacing the stock dampers, an Invidia exhaust system with 101 mm pipes releasing an additional 21 horses (for a total of 353 hp, three ponies more than the factory tuner Nismo) and a sport air filter. And, besides the wheels, that's it. Well, those sill-graphics, but really, that's it. So then, why are we acting like the Senner Tuning Whitelady Z is a SEMA-mutant all star? Make the jump, por favor.


Gallery: Senner Tuning Whitelady Z


[Source: Senner Tuning]

Continue reading Germany's Senner Tuning Whitelady Z gets alles weiß mit der Nissan 370Z

Germany's Senner Tuning Whitelady Z gets alles weiß mit der Nissan 370Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>370ZBarracuda TzunameeBarracudaTzunameeNismoNissanNissan 370ZNissan 370Z NismoNissan370zNissan370zNismoSennerSenner TuningSenner TUning Whitelady ZSennerTuningSennerTuningWhiteladyZWhitelady ZWhiteladyZWed, 14 Oct 2009 17:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19195737/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/10/14/germanys-senner-tuning-whitelady-z-gets-alles-weisz-mit-der-niss/19195737/article-detail.xml 19195737 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/lead_senner_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/lead_senner.jpg <![CDATA[REPORT: Nissan's Fiesty Mr. K calls out the 370Z ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/report-nissans-fiesty-mr-k-calls-out-the-370z/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/report-nissans-fiesty-mr-k-calls-out-the-370z/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/report-nissans-fiesty-mr-k-calls-out-the-370z/#commentsFiled under: ,



Recently one of our bloggers raised the hackles of many a commenter by announcing to the world that he preferred driving a Nissan Versa to the new 370Z. You can hear the whole exchange on Autoblog Podcast #140. To protect this poor blogger's identity, he shall remain nameless (we'll call him Jonny X for short. No, too obvious. Let's go with X Lieberman). Point is, obviously this person is out of his mind because who on earth prefers driving a economy car like the Versa to a Z? Turns out Nissan's Mr. K.

Yutaka Katayama, known to American Datsun/Nissan fans simply as Mr. K, will be remembered for two very important cars: the 240Z and the 510, both of which are now considered classics. Mr. K turned one hundred years old on September 15, but age hasn't tempered his mind. In fact it seems sharper than ever. Talking about the new 370Z, Mr. K calls it, "So-so." He continues, "Very different from the 240Z. First, it's very heavy, and it's also very expensive."

And not only does Mr. K feel the car new Z is too expensive, but that it's not actually living up to the Japanese sports car legacy laid down by the 240Z, "I'd like to have a sports car like the Miata. The Miata is taking the place of the 240Z." Harsh. But check this out, "Katayama has a 350Z in his garage but prefers to drive the family's Versa compact." And there you have it.

Mr. K would like to see the Datsun nameplate come back, and with sportier cars. "The fun of driving cars is the same as riding a horse. We need a car that is like riding on horseback. We are making robots. Robots don't like human control." Even at the ripe old age of one hundred, Mr. K just might be around to see his wish come true, "I just entered the 100s. I have a long way to go."

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req. | Image: MTZC]



REPORT: Nissan's Fiesty Mr. K calls out the 370Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 370Z2010 Nissan 370Z2010370z2010Nissan370z240Z370Z510DatsunDatsun 240ZDatsun 510Datsun240zDatsun510Mr. KMr.KNissanNissan 370ZNissan370zYutaka KatayamaYutakaKatayamaMon, 21 Sep 2009 14:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19167866/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/09/21/report-nissans-fiesty-mr-k-calls-out-the-370z/19167866/article-detail.xml 19167866 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/mrk_lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/mrk_lead.jpg <![CDATA[VIDEO: <i>Motor Trend's</i> Best Driver's Car Competition offers a few surprises]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/video-mt-best-drivers-car-competition-offers-a-few-surprises/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/video-mt-best-drivers-car-competition-offers-a-few-surprises/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/video-mt-best-drivers-car-competition-offers-a-few-surprises/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above to watch the video after the jump

Over the years, our favorite magazines have had some spectacular comparison tests, with scores of test data and page after page of subjective text. Motor Trend has practically made a living with comparisons, and its newest feature pits 10 hot rides against one another to see which is the best driver's car. MT used tons of data, added subjective feedback from staff members and included track time at Laguna Seca with pro driver Randy Pobst.

If you receive Motor Trend at home or you check in over at its website, you've probably read the extensive article, but the magazine also produced a 14 minute video hosted by Editor at Large Arthur St. Antoine. Hit the jump to watch the video for yourself. It's chock full of beautiful footage, 638 horsepower supercars drifting around and tire-ripping burnouts. How much more can you ask for?

[Source: YouTube via Motor Trend]

Continue reading VIDEO: Motor Trend's Best Driver's Car Competition offers a few surprises

VIDEO: Motor Trend's Best Driver's Car Competition offers a few surprises originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best drivers carBestDriversCarbmw 135iBmw135ichevy camaroChevyCamarocorvette zr1CorvetteZr1cts-vford mustangFordMustangjaguar xfrJaguarXfrmazda miataMazdaMiatamotor trendMotorTrendnissan 370zNissan370zporsche caymanPorscheCaymanten best drivers carsTenBestDriversCarsThu, 17 Sep 2009 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19161453/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/09/17/video-mt-best-drivers-car-competition-offers-a-few-surprises/19161453/article-detail.xml 19161453 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/motor-trend-10drivers_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/motor-trend-10drivers.jpg <![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Nissan 370Z Nismo simply rocks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/first-drive-2010-nissan-370z-nismo-simply-rocks/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/first-drive-2010-nissan-370z-nismo-simply-rocks/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/first-drive-2010-nissan-370z-nismo-simply-rocks/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Nissan 370Z Nismo - Click above for high-res image gallery

There's no safe way to say it: this blogger just doesn't like the 2010 Nissan 370Z very much. Sure, it's a fine sporty car that goes about its business quickly and competently, but it just leaves me cold. Yes, it can hit 60 mph in 5 seconds, hold 0.99 g on a skid pad and get around a track faster than a Porsche Cayman, but it doesn't rocket to 60 mph in 5 seconds like Wile E. Coyote shot from a greased Acme canon. Nor does it tenaciously hold 0.99 g like a baby possum gripping onto mama during a lightning storm. And yeah, you guessed it, I'd much rather get there a second or two late in the mid-engined Porsche. Or, more appropriately, a 2010 Mustang GT. Long story short, the 370Z is a little dull.

I'm not just saying all this to be contrary or cute. I've personally logged over 1,500 miles in a couple different 370Zs and, to be honest, the experience wasn't much different than the more than 1,500 miles I've traveled in various Infiniti G37s. Not that there's anything wrong with the Infiniti, but the Z should be a sports car, not a luxury tourer. That's why it was such a breath of fresh air - both literal and otherwise - when we got our hands on the 370Z Roadster. It was like going from black and white to color. Finally, the new Z was fun, engaging - thrilling even. Trouble was, we knew the Nismo was coming and had that stuffy roof. Yeah, we'd go fast for a week, but I feared being ultimately underwhelmed. Well guess what? Not so with Nismo.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Nissan 370Z Nismo


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Nissan 370Z Nismo simply rocks

First Drive: 2010 Nissan 370Z Nismo simply rocks originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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