Acceleration
"Ample power from any speed with either transmission. No opportunity yet to time a 300-hp model, but test manual-transmission Enthusiast coupe with 287 hp did 6.0 sec 0-60 mph. Some testers like manual-gearbox shift action; others find it too stiff. Automatic often slurs downshifts."

Value
High noise levels and a rough ride are tradeoffs for the 350Z's outstanding smooth-road handling. And cost-conscious pricing dictates cut-rate interior decor. But Nissan's sports car delivers serious performance and high style at a relative bargain price. That puts it on our Recommended list.

Ride
"Laudable high-speed composure. Acceptably comfortable on smooth surfaces. But Zs pound over bumps and ruts, especially the Track and Grand Touring coupe with their ultrastiff 18-inch tires. "

Economy
"In tests of 287-hp models, Touring convertible averaged 21.4-22.0 in mostly highway driving; manual-transmission Enthusiast coupe averaged 17.8 mpg with gas-eating performance runs. Touring coupes averaged 18.8-19.3 mpg. Nissan recommends premium-grade fuel."

Noise
"Prominent exhaust note befits a sports car, but V6 otherwise passenger-sedan mannerly. Wind rush modest, but road noise high, especially on coarse pavement. Coupe's open cargo area magnifies tire ""whoosh"" on wet roads. Convertible suffers more wind rush and ambient noise than coupe, but less rear-tire noise enters cockpit."

Comfort - Front
"Among the more-spacious 2-seaters, though high doorsills, low seating position give a closed-in feel. Seats have good lateral bolstering, but some testers find comfort lacking on long drives. Low-slung styling hampers entry/exit. Coupe rear vision compromised by body shape and, for some drivers, reflections in back window from shiny structural cross-brace in cargo bay. Combination of headrests, small rear window mar top-up vision in convertibles, particularly over left shoulder."

Comfort - Rear
(No rear seating.)

Controls
"Clearly marked gauge cluster tilts with steering column. Audio, climate controls within easy reach, but stereo buttons undersized. Available navigation system revised for '06; no opportunity yet to evaluate. Available leather upholstery feels rich, but cabin is otherwise full of lightweight plastic panels and undistinguished switchgear--a big letdown vs. many sports car interiors."

Cargo Room
"Coupe's hatchback design maximizes utility compared with many sports cars, but loading large items hindered by high liftover, intrusion from cross-brace. Convertible has smaller, shallower trunk. Tiny door map pockets, no glovebox, but front seatbacks tip for access to storage bins behind. Flimsy pop-out dashboard cupholder."