NISMO pumps up Z car

Nissan has wasted little time readying the even more performance-oriented 370Z. Coming less than five months after the new Z car hit showrooms, the NISMO 370Z arrives with engine, chassis and aero component upgrades.

The 3.7-liter V6 receives a small power bump over the base car, thanks to an H-configured exhaust system and changes to the engine management system. Output increases by 18 hp to 350 hp and 6 lb-ft of torque to 276 lb-ft. A six-speed manual with synchronized downshift rev matching is the only transmission offered.

To tighten the handling, engineers added a front strut tower bar, performance dampers and uprated suspension components. Spring rates in front and rear are up 15 percent and 10 percent, respectively, while antiroll bars are stiffened 15 percent for the front and 50 percent out back. Steering response is improved with reworked steering-column bushings and insulator. In addition, a viscous limited-slip differential is standard.

Everything rides on forged 19-inch Rays wheels wrapped with Yokohama Advan Sport tires. Brake performance improves with a NISMO sport brake system (four-piston calipers front, two-piston calipers rear).

Aero enhancements come courtesy of a longer front nose, with an integrated chin spoiler to improve front downforce, and extend the NISMO 370Z's total length by 7.1 inches, compared with the regular Z. A rear spoiler provides additional downforce out back, while specially designed side sills and a rear bumper with side vents better control airflow under the car.

Completing the NISMO transformation are red and black cloth seats, a NISMO tachometer, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with red stitching and a serialized plaque inside the cabin.

The NISMO 370Z goes on sale in June.