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Base
$35,760
MPG
18 city / 26 highway
Annual Fuel
$1,899 (15,000 miles @ $2.66 / gallon-premium)
For 2009, Z’s new aerodynamic design gives it a look of something far more expensive (I'm thinking Porsche), while undisputedly appealing to true and new fans alike. And if you like 'em big, this one's got 19" rims, a front chin, rear spoiler and sports brakes when you opt for the $3,000 sports package. Even without, the standard 18" alloy rims in no way pale in comparison.
The thought of a 332 horsepower engine with a seven-speed automatic transmission could sound a little boring versus driving a stick---NOT! With superb cornering, this one roars down the road holding low and true to the ground with your favorite theme song playing on the six speaker Bose system with two sub woofers, XM Satellite radio), your eyes will gleam with excitement as if you were a kid on Christmas day. Of course the seven speed transmission helps to manage fuel economy as well, especially for an engine of this size. Should you opt to drive with no music at all, the interior cabin is whisper quiet inside. Then again, you could always roll down the windows and really take in the roar of it all!
With just two front seats (synthetic suede and leather), both of which are perfectly suited for full figure adults, there is still enough space for a brief case, or huge purse behind each. And unlike other compact sized sports cars, there are four cup holders altogether---two in the center, another two in the doors. Speaking of doors, a third door reveals great storage for groceries, or whatever.
Kudos for the side body “Z” emblem that serve as turn signals while everyone else opts for the more common side mirrors turn signals, which were quite innovative years ago!
The greatest challenge I experienced in driving the 370Z was the blind spots on the left and right . Turning around to see who's beside you requires the use of all mirrors, which takes a bit of getting used to. Nevertheless, of all the compact sized sports cars, for the money, the 370Z sits at the top of my list. Go Nissan!
So, you're "it" and driving a hot whip. What do you do this holiday weekend? Where do you go to chill, or for a thrill? It's going down at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park where sparks will fly on July 4, 2009 to mark the Grammy award winning Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s second Independence Day event.
The state-of-the-art, outdoor venue is nestled in a tree covered, somewhat bucolic setting by metro Atlanta standards, yet is mere minutes from GA-400. No worries should an evening thunderstorm come into play since reserved seating ($27-$51) is covered, baring general admission seating on the lawn in the rear (at $21).
Holiday favorites will include America the Beautiful, Battle Hymn of the Republic, Tschaikowsky’s Overture to 1812 and, of course, John Philip Sousa’s Star and Stripes Forever. Of course it wouldn't be a proper J-4 celebration without the U.S. Army chorus on hand to elevate patriotic fervor during what true ASO fans (like James Ward) refer to as "an explosive two hour performance!"
So, after a day of barbecue in your backyard, the park, or the lake, get there in a hot whip--like the new 370Z, kick back with a glass of wine, or a ice cold draft beer and go out this Fourth of July with a bang!
For more info: www.nissanusa.com and wwww.atlantasymphony.org