First introduced as a 2003 model, the 350Z is the latest Nissan is a series of "Z" cars dating back to the 1969 240Z. The 350Z was styled at Nissan Design America and has all the design cues you'd expect in the Z-Car family.

The car was updated in 2007, including both mechanical and visual improvements. The biggest change came in the form of a new, more powerful, 3.5-liter V6 engine, rated at 306 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque with both the close-ratio 6-speed manual and 5-speed automatic transmissions. The new VQ engine is built with nearly 80 percent of its major parts redesigned. Reported fuel economy is 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

The 350Z is available in four models: 350Z 6MT, 350Z Enthusiast, 350Z Touring and 350Z Grand Touring. Starting MSRP for the 350Z Coupe with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission is $27,900.

The Enthusiast model adds cruise control, Traction Control, Viscous Limited Slip Differential (VLSD), aluminum pedals and more, and is available in a 6-speed manual configuration starting at $29,600, or in a 5-speed automatic configuration starting at $30,600.

The 350Z Touring model is available with a 6-speed manual starting at $32,700, and with a 5-speed auto starting at $33,200. Touring models add a 7-speaker Bose audio system and heated power leather seats.

Nissan 350Z Coupe Grand Touring models start at $36,100 for the 6-speed coupe $37,100 for the 5-speed auto. The package adds lightweight alloy wheels, front and rear spoilers, Brembo brakes and VDC for both the manual and automatic transmissions.

The navigation system is optional on all models, and Bluetooth hands-free phone compatibility comes optional for the Touring and Grand Touring models.