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Road Test

Nissan 350Z

Test Date 21 October 2003  Price When New £25,500

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Verdict

Thirty years ago a car in the mould of the 350Z would have been referred to as a 'man's car' by our less politically correct, hirsute predecessors. Its steering and clutch would have been heavy, its engine somewhat temperamental and its manners comically tail-happy. The 350Z is, of course, none of these things, and is as easy to drive in any conditions as you would expect of a modern car. But there's a certain bad-boy behaviour to its character that makes driving the Z feel strangely liberating - in a serious world it's not too serious. It's a car that will reward those who drive it hard, yet satisfy those content to cruise around on a summer's evening, windows down, exhaust growling, basking in the attention of its designer styling. Like any strong personality, the 350Z won't appeal to everyone. And it's a selfish choice, offering only two seats and limited luggage space. But for now, 2003 has a new performance hero. The Z-car is back, and how.

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