First Drive: 2003 Nissan 350Z Roadster
Let Z sun shine in
Photography by Matt Stone, Brian Vance
Okay, so the punny subhead is a groaner, but the car sure isn't: The Z was engineered with a convertible variant in mind from the beginning. Though Nissan couldn't go the retractable hardtop route (too costly), it did equip the Z Roadster with a slick power softtop that neatly disappears beneath a stylish, hard tonneau.
Considerable effort, in the form of extra cross-bracing and other structural enhancements, went into ensuring that the chassis was rigid enough for ragtop duty. The effort paid off, and we're impressed by the Z's solidity and lack of cowl-shake. Wind noise is minimal, and buffeting also is well-controlled. Thanks to an insulated fabric top, conversation remains easy, even at higher speeds, although we'd rather listen to the 3.5-liter V-6's warbling dual exhausts.
As you'd expect, there's a minor weight penalty (215-240 pounds extra, depending upon model). The Roadster is offered in Enthusiast or Touring level trim; of particular interest is a pair of sport seats that replace the usual padded center section with a heavy, ventilated netting. You can actually see through this stuff. These seats are standard on Touring models with the Burnt Orange Leather interior.
The Z Roadster looks great, works well, and offers the structural rigidity needed to minimize squeaks and maintain the Z's good handling characteristics. Job well done.