Nissan 370Z NISMO: a legendary sports car with the soul of a racing car

Sports coupe Nissan 370Z NISMO is not just a modification of the popular 370Z, but a full-fledged embodiment of the racing spirit of the brand. Developed by Division NISMO (Nissan Motorsport), this vehicle combines aggressive design, improved dynamics and unique technical features that make it one of the most desirable JDM sports cars on the aftermarket. Unlike the basic version, NISMO received not only external “decorations”, but also serious modifications to the suspension, braking system and even the engine - all in order to bring the driving experience as close as possible to the track.

Released in 2013 (and later updated in 2019), 370Z NISMO became a logical continuation of traditions 350Z NISMO, but with an even more radical approach. This car was created for those who appreciate pure drive without electronic “assistants” - there is no adaptive cruise control or automatic braking systems, but there is honest rear-wheel drive, a manual transmission (optional) and an engine VQ37VHR, which spins up to 7500 rpm. But is it that good? NISMO for everyday use? And is it worth overpaying for this version compared to the regular one? 370Z? Let's look into it in detail.

Technical specifications: what does the NISMO hood hide?

With my heart Nissan 370Z NISMO remains the same 3.7-liter naturally aspirated V6 VQ37VHR, but with modifications from NISMO. Power increased to 350 hp (versus 332 hp for the basic version) thanks to modified camshafts, an improved intake system and a re-flashed electronic control system. Torque remained at the same level 376 Nm, but its distribution has become more “sharp” - the peak is reached at 5200 rpm, and not at 5000, like the standard 370Z.

Transmission is available to choose from: 6-speed manual with short-stroke lever (exclusive for NISMO) or 7-speed automatic with paddle shifters. At the same time, the machine in NISMO received unique settings that simulate "re-throttle" when downshifting - a function that Nissan named Downshift Rev Matching. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes 4.6 seconds with manual transmission and 4.8 seconds with an automatic transmission it’s not a record, but for a naturally aspirated engine it’s very decent.

Particular attention in NISMO dedicated to the suspension: used here Uprated Bilstein springs and shock absorbers, as well as stiffer anti-roll bars. Ground clearance reduced by 15 mm, and the wheels are increased to 19 inches (versus 18 for the basic version) with tires Bridgestone Potenza S001 dimensions 245/40 R19 front and 285/35 R19 behind. The brake system has also been improved: there are 4-piston Brembo calipers with perforated discs diameter 355 mm.

• 🔥 Engine: VQ37VHR 3.7L V6, 350 hp / 376 Nm
• ⚡ Transmission: 6 manual transmission (short throw) or 7 automatic transmission with Downshift Rev Matching
• 🚀 Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 4.6 s (manual transmission) / 4.8 s (automatic transmission)
• 🛑 Brakes: Brembo 4-piston, 355 mm discs (front)
• 🌀 Suspension: Bilstein, NISMO springs, ground clearance −15 mm

Exterior design: aggression in every detail

Visually Nissan 370Z NISMO differs from the basic version in at least five key elements that are immediately noticeable. Firstly, this front bumper with large air intakes, which not only give the car a predatory look, but also improve brake cooling. Secondly - hood with air "gills", which reduce pressure in the engine compartment at high speeds. Third element - rear spoiler, increasing downforce by 15% compared to standard 370Z.

Color range NISMO traditionally limited: primary colors - Super Black, Brilliant Silver and exclusive Pearl White (additional +$1000). But the main "trick" is red accents: mirrors, stripes on bumpers, inscription NISMO on the radiator grille and even red stitching on the seats. Wheels Rays Engineering with 10 spokes - also exclusive to this version.

Fun fact: design 370Z NISMO was developed taking into account aerodynamic tests in a wind tunnel. Drag coefficient (Cx) managed to be reduced to 0.30 (for the basic version - 0.31), and downforce at a speed of 200 km/h increased by 25 kg. It may not seem like much, but on the track, every tenth of a second on a lap matters.

⚠️ Attention: When buying used 370Z NISMO Pay attention to the condition of the front spoiler - it often suffers from “kissing” curbs due to the low ground clearance. Also check whether the red elements (mirrors, stripes) have been repainted: the original paint has a glossy tint, but after restoration it is often matte.

Interior: racing minimalism or spartan conditions?

Salon Nissan 370Z NISMO is an example of how functionality beats luxury. There is no premium leather trim or a multimedia complex with a touch screen. Instead - Alcantara on steering wheel and gear lever, sports seats Recaro with improved lateral support (covered in a combination of fabric and Alcantara), and a minimalist instrument panel with white dials and red backlighting.

Among the key differences from the basic version:

• 🎯 NISMO steering wheel with red center and thickened rim (diameter 360 mm)
• 🛋️ Recaro seats with NISMO logo and improved hip support
• 📉 Aluminum pedals (clutch, brake, gas) with corrugated surface
• 🔢 Number plate on the dashboard indicating the vehicle number in the series (for example, #001/150)

However, there are also disadvantages: missing hatch (in basic 370Z it is optional), there are no heated seats, and the audio system is modest Bose with 6 speakers. But here there is something that competitors do not have - analog clock on dashboard (in style Nissan GT-R), which show time accurate to the second. And also - engine start button with a red illuminating ring that lights up when you press the brake pedal.

Secret function of the start button

If you hold the start button for more than 3 seconds without pressing the brake, the "diagnostic mode" is activated - error codes (if any) will be displayed on the dashboard.

Comparison with the base 370Z: is it worth the extra money?

The main question that worries potential buyers: how much NISMO better than standard 370Z? The difference in price on the secondary market can reach 30-40% (for example, in 2026 370Z NISMO 2019 costs ~$35,000, while the base version costs ~$25,000). Let's look at what exactly you are paying for:

Parameter	370Z (base)	370Z NISMO	Comment
Power, hp	332	350	+18 hp due to modified camshafts and intake
Suspension	Standard	Bilstein + NISMO springs	20% stiffer, ground clearance −15 mm
Brakes (front)	2-piston	Brembo 4-piston	Better cooling and braking distance
Wheels	18" or 19"	19" Rays Engineering	20mm wider at rear, 1.5kg lighter each
Salon	Standard seats	Recaro + Alcantara	Better lateral support, but less comfortable for long trips

Critical difference: NISMO is faster on the track, but less comfortable in the city. If you drive on the highway or participate in track days, the overpayment is justified. If you need an everyday car, it’s better to save money and take the basic version with a package Sport.

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NISMO wins in dynamics and handling, but loses in comfort and practicality. Optimal for enthusiasts, not family trips.

Tuning and modifications: how to make NISMO even angrier?

Even in stock configuration 370Z NISMO This is a serious sports car, but many owners strive to get the most out of it. Here are the top 5 modifications that actually make sense:

1. Exhaust system: Replacement with Invidia N1 or HKS Hi-Power adds 15-20 hp and improves the sound (but be prepared for fines - the noise level exceeds 95 dB).
2. ECU firmware: Chip tuning from UpRev or Cobb allows you to remove restrictions and increase power to 380-400 hp on a stock engine.
3. Intercooler (for automatic): Installation of an additional radiator for automatic transmission (for example, Setrab) reduces the oil temperature by 20-30°C during intense driving.
4. Suspension: Replacing springs with Swift Spec-R and shock absorbers on KW Clubsport makes the car even sharper, but the rigidity will increase by 40%.
5. Brakes: Kit StopTech ST-40 (6-piston calipers + 380 mm discs) reduces braking distance from 100 km/h to 5-7 meters.

However, there are nuances:

⚠️ Attention: When installing a turbocharger (for example, GReddy T618Z) you will have to change the pistons and connecting rods — stock VQ37VHR not designed for pressures above 0.5 bar. The cost of such an upgrade starts from $12 000.

For those who want to maintain the warranty (if the car is still on it), there are official accessories from NISMO:

• 🔧 Carbon spoiler (weight −2.5 kg, downforce +10%)
• 🎨 Screws with NISMO logo for hood hinges
• 🔊 NISMO exhaust system (quieter than Invidia, but the sound is deeper)

Check compression in cylinders|Do suspension diagnostics|Assess budget (minimum $3,000 for basic modifications)|Consult with a tuning studio about parts compatibility-->

Problems and weaknesses: what to pay attention to?

Like any used sports car, 370Z NISMO has a number of typical “diseases”. Here's what to check first:

• 🔥 Engine VQ37VHR: Problems with phase shifters (knock when cold) and maslozhor (up to 1 liter per 1000 km with aggressive driving). The solution is replacement with updated parts from Nissan (article 13070-4M000 for phase shifters).
• ⚙️ Gearbox: The manual transmission wears out input shaft bearing (hum in neutral), automatic transmission has solenoids (problems with switching to hot).
• 🛞 Suspension: Wheel bearings and silent blocks of the rear beam “live” no more 60,000 km when driving on bad roads.
• 🔋 Electrical: Often fails throttle position sensor (error code P0120), and also the lamps in the headlights burn out due to poor ventilation.

Another common problem is engine compartment corrosion. Due to poor ventilation and the use of cheap seals, moisture accumulates under the hood, which leads to rust on the shock absorber supports And radiator mount. The solution is anti-corrosive treatment and installation of additional ventilation grilles.

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Before buying used 370Z NISMO be sure to check the VIN history via Carfax or AutoCheck. Pay special attention to accident records - even a small hit to the front bumper can damage the radiators and air conditioning condenser (their replacement will cost $1,500+).

Prices and alternatives: what to choose instead of NISMO?

On the secondary market (2026) prices for Nissan 370Z NISMO vary depending on year and mileage:

• 📅 2013-2015: $22,000 - $28,000 (mileage 50,000 - 80,000 km)
• 📅 2016-2018: $28,000 - $35,000 (mileage 20,000 - 50,000 km)
• 📅 2019-2020: $35,000 - $45,000 (mileage up to 20,000 km)

If NISMO seems too expensive or extreme, consider alternatives:

Model	Power	Price (used)	Pros	Cons
Nissan 370Z Sport	332 hp	$18 000 — $25 000	Cheaper, more comfortable, has a sunroof	Less dynamic, weaker brakes
Toyota GT86 / Subaru BRZ	200-205 hp	$15 000 — $22 000	Light weight, rear wheel drive, reliability	Weak engine, cramped interior
Ford Mustang GT (2015+)	420+ hp	$25 000 — $35 000	More powerful, more modern, more practical	Heavy weight, less controllable
BMW M2 (F87)	370 hp	$35 000 — $50 000	Better handling, premium interior	Expensive maintenance, complex electronics

If you are looking for something similar in spirit, but newer, pay attention to Nissan Z (RZ34) 2023. It is equipped 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 (400 hp) and a modern 6-speed manual transmission, but lost some of the “analogue” 370Z (for example, there is already an electronic handbrake and adaptive cruise control).

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

❓ How much oil to pour into the engine VQ37VHR and which one?

Oil volume - 5.1 liters (with filter replacement). Recommended oil: 5W-30 or 5W-40 with permission Nissan Strong Save XE (original article - KE900-90042). Replacement interval - every 7,500 km when driving aggressively or 10,000 km with a calm style.

❓ Is it possible to install a turbine on 370Z NISMO without replacing pistons?

Technically possible, but highly not recommended. Stock pistons have a compression ratio 11:1, that at pressure higher 0.5 bar leads to detonation. Minimum safe boost - 0.3-0.4 bar (increase ~50 hp), but for this you need intercooler, reinforced fuel injectors and firmware. For serious tuning (0.8+ bar) forged pistons are required (e.g. JE Pistons) and connecting rods.

❓ What is the resource of the clutch in 370Z NISMO with manual transmission?

When driving quietly, the clutch (Nissan 30501-JK00A) walks 80,000 – 100,000 km. With aggressive driving (frequent starts with slipping, track days), the resource is reduced to 30,000 – 50,000 km. Signs of wear: slipping during a sharp start, vibrations at idle, difficulty shifting gears. Replacing the clutch at a service center will cost $1 200 — $1 800 (including work).

❓ Which tires are best to choose for NISMO for the summer?

Optimal options for track and street:

• 🏁 Track: Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 (maximum grip, but wear after 5,000 km)
• 🚗 Street +偶尔 track: Bridgestone Potenza S007A (balance of adhesion and resource)
• 💰 Budget: Falken FK510 (good price/quality ratio)

Tire pressure: 2.2 bar front, 2.0 bar rear (for the street). On the track you can upgrade to 2.4/2.2 bar.

❓ Where is the best place to buy spare parts for 370Z NISMO?

Priority parts sources:

1. Official dealers Nissan: Parts are guaranteed, but prices are high (for example, Brembo brake discs cost ~$800 per pair).
2. Specialized stores:
   • Z1 Motorsports (USA, wide range of tuning parts)
   • Black Dragon Auto (Europe, original and OEM parts)
   • Partzilla (online catalog with disassembly diagrams)

Used market: Groups in Facebook (Nissan 370Z Owners) or eBay (but there is a risk of running into a fake).

⚠️ Attention: When purchasing used parts, check them by VIN or article number. For example, shock absorbers Bilstein for NISMO have a unique number 24-186683 - they are not interchangeable with basic ones 370Z!