Z-car true to its roots

It’s hard to define what earns a vehicle the right to the title “iconic”. Is it ageless styling? How long it has been in production? Perhaps the number sold? Or is it some hidden ingredient that can’t quite be pinned down? It is definitely subjective and, as with discussing politics or sport with friends around a braai, there is usually never consensus. For my two cents’ worth, I will suggest the Porsche 911, Mercedes-Benz’s SL range, Volkswagen’s Beetle and, of course, the Mini. All timeless vehicles that have evolved — but stuck with the basics that made them so relevant initially. Some of these you may agree with, some you may dismiss as ridiculous. But isn’t that one of the fun elements about cars — everyone has an opinion? Another car that must be knocking on the door, although it is not yet over the threshold, is the Nissan Z. Its pedigree is lengthy. Six generations and with many enhancements along the way, the 370Z of today still manages to pay homage to the original 240Z launched in 1969. For close on 50 years the Z-car has been raced around the world, found a place in many enthusiasts’ hearts and featured in movies and, more recently, console games. Its desirability is undeniable and although it might not sell in the kind of numbers that many other sports cars do, it is still very much in demand. The car was displayed for the first time in South Africa at last month’s Festival of Motoring in Kyalami, Gauteng, and the first shipment of 20 vehicles destined for Mzansi has already been snapped up. The distinctive silhouette and ageless design of the original Z is still in evidence, with its trademark long, raking bonnet. At the launch last week, Frenchman Xavier Gobille, who has the rather impressive title of “MD, sales, marketing and aftersales, Nissan Group of Africa”, spoke of the 370Z having an “old-school recipe”. By that I guess he was talking about the fact that the 370Z remains a rear-wheel drive vehicle and has avoided going the turbo route by using the same high-revving 3.7-litre V6 engine as its predecessor. Linked to this engine you have a choice of either a six-speed manual transmission using the new EXEDY high-performance clutch, or a seven-speed automatic box that has paddle shifters. Gobille describes the engine as “bulletproof”, which is probably just as well, because enthusiastic journalists each tried to better the others’ lap times at the Redstar Raceway in Mpumalanga. On a track that has 13 corners that at times demand violent twists and turns, there is never a moment to relax. Unlike some sports cars, the 370Z is surprisingly compliant and easy to manoeuvre — even when overshooting the marker indicating that the driver needs to head for the next chicane. With solid 19-inch wheels anchoring you to the tarmac, the grip feels assured. Helping you reduce speed as you hurtle into the next bend are a chunky set of brake discs that certainly appear to do the job. While on the subject of tyres, there was criticism levelled by owners of the old 370Z regarding road noise filtering into the cabin. Nissan actually paid attention to its customers and put considerable effort into solving the problem, eventually developing a more insulated cabin. The car is undoubtedly quick: according to the company it reaches 100km/h from a standing start in just 5.3 seconds (5.6 seconds for the auto) and a top speed limited to 250km/h. What is quite impressive is the delivery of all 245kW and 363Nm. There is no sudden surge or violent thrust, just a progressive increase in momentum that allows you to enjoy the flexibility of the vehicle. The