Nissan 370Z Z34

## Nissan 370Z (Z34, 2009–2022)

The 370Z stayed in production for over a decade and clung stubbornly to its formula: short wheelbase, rear-wheel drive, a big naturally aspirated engine and zero turbo gimmickry. The VQ37VHR, a 3.7-litre V6 with variable valve timing and lift (VVEL), makes 328 to 344 hp depending on spec and revs more willingly and higher than its predecessor. With the optional SynchroRev-Match gearbox the car blips the throttle for you on downshifts — a neat helper that can be switched off if you prefer to heel-and-toe yourself. The 370Z is more compact and stiffer than the 350Z, direct and honest, with a hint of old-school roughness that sets it apart from smoother rivals.

Every Z owner knows the two main weak points. First, the clutch concentric slave cylinder (CSC), which, as on the 350Z, fails gradually — the pedal sinks, the bite point dissolves, and replacement is labour-intensive because the gearbox has to come out. Second, the electronic steering lock (ESCL): if it fails, the car simply won't start, often without warning. Both are well-documented issues with proven fixes. On top of that there is a 2020 recall covering steering knuckles and axle housings that can deform — check before buying whether it has been carried out.

Mechanically the rear axle tends to click at the CV joints under load changes, the brake discs warp early under heat and the power steering makes noise from both pump and rack. At the front, strut top mounts and springs knock and squeak over time. Rust is a factor here too: underbody corrosion and rust on the rear subframe belong on the checklist, especially on cars from salty winters. The rare Roadster adds hydraulic and mechanical roof failures, plus weakening tailgate gas struts and a temperamental auto-reverse function on the windows that can trap fingers.

When buying, service history is everything. A Z34 that has had regular oil and filter changes and no hard track days is the safe bet — and because many were driven on circuit, an honest account of how the car was used is crucial. Test drive with attention to the clutch bite point, ESCL behaviour at start-up, brake judder and suspension noises. Confirming the recall has been done completes the inspection. The 370Z is one of the last affordable naturally aspirated sports cars with genuine V6 character — keep an eye on the CSC and ESCL and you get a lot of honest driving fun for the money.