NISSAN 350Z

▶ Z-cars were a global phenomenon, in 1969 introducing the world to Japanese sports when Far Eastern brands were known for nothing more than low-rent knock-offs of Western machines.

Through several decades, in which the original 240Z was watered down into the overweight fourth-generation 300ZX, Nissan lost its way. But by 2002 it was back to the top thanks to the 350Z – a hairy-chested two-seater coupe that was not only a return to form, it’s also a certified future classic.

At the heart of the 350Z was a 3.5-litre normally-aspirated V6, directing power to the rear wheels through a well-weighted (some might say heavy) six-speed manual gearbox. It made for a visceral driving experience, aided by an aurally exciting soundtrack through twin exhausts.

The performance figures of 155mph and 0-to-60mph in 5.7 seconds were less important (and perhaps not quite believable) than the 350Z’s package of perfect weight distribution, direct handling (it wasn’t as lairy as legend would have you believe, requiring gratuitous use of the loud pedal to provoke a slide), extremely capable cruising ability, and a style to match its Audi TT rival: the bulbous bodywork sat above 18in alloy wheels, while the cockpit featured smart details plus plenty of kit, including climate control. The GT added leather upholstery and cruise control, yet neither model made any pretence at being a two-plus-two thanks to the interference of a rear strut brace.

The 350Z never sold quite as well in the UK as Nissan hoped, principally due to poor economy (24mpg). In 2006 came power increases to 300bhp –

accompanied by revised lighting

– and reduced

0-to-60mph time of 5.5 seconds. A further increase to 309bhp arrived in 2007, identifiable by a bonnet bulge; some owners reckoned it didn’t feel as quick as the previous version.

Today, although most 350Zs are receiving the respect they deserve, there are still numbers of abused and badly-modified machines on the market. But don’t get left behind, because prices are on the rise.