Ace of Base: 2018 Nissan 370Z

There’s not much new in the 2018 Nissan 370Z, nor was there much new last year, and the year before that. In fact, this model has been around since Shane was still alive on The Walking Dead.

Like last year, an equivalently priced Mustang or Camaro will be arguably more modern with better technology, especially with the 2018 changes to those models. But, as long-time readers may know, I feel that either of those cars equipped sans V8 is more pointless than ordering a Diet Coke to accompany one’s double Big Mac and supersized fries.

A base Z is worthy of attention — 29,990 of the finest American dollars will net buyers a slick-looking rear-wheel drive coupe with more than enough power to get new drivers in trouble. This model year, buyers can lavishly shell out an extra $790 for a 370Z Heritage Edition, available in a couple of colors with interior/exterior tape and stripe frippery. You don’t need it.

A double-wishbone suspension and 3300-pound curb weight lends sporty handling characteristics, while Nissan’s 3.7-liter V6 makes 332 horsepower in this application, zinging to a 7500rpm redline via a snick-snick six-speed manual. For 2018, the engineers at Nissan have installed an EXEDY high-performance clutch on the base model.

The fast cut of the Z’s roofline still recalls the styling flourish of its mighty GT-R brother. A next-generation Z is rumored to be in the works, perhaps taking the same path of Mitsubishi’s Eclipse Cross concept. I sincerely hope not. The only Zs that should be found in a crossover are those emanating from slumbering passengers. Thanks to emissions and economy regs, it’ll probably be a downsized turbo-four or (gasp!) a hybrid. Appreciate this naturally aspirated V6 Z while you can.

Economies of scale ensure base Z customers enjoy some features initially thought to be found solely in costly trims, such as an intelligent key with pushbutton ignition and automatic temperature control. Windows are one-touch up/down and the infotainment system has Bluetooth capability. Good thing, too: the flat-surface interface of buttons is a keyboard I have played rather badly in past experiences in the Z.

Unlike last year, the tasty Chicane Yellow paint is an extra-cost option, as it is offered only on the Heritage Edition. Pearl White and Passion Red add simoleons to the Monroney, too. This year, stick with the $0 Deep Blue Pearl. The lovely Black Cherry hue has checked out like a coulrophobiac leaving the It movie.

North of the border, like last year, the deal is even better. Nissan’s Zed in base trim is priced only eight dollars more than an equivalent American version, equating to (at today’s exchange rate) a shade under $25,000. A wider palette of colors is available, too. Perhaps Carlos likes us more.

[Image: Nissan]

Not every base model has aced it. The ones which have? They help make the automotive landscape a whole lot better. What do you think of this choice, B&B? Let us know in the comments. Naturally, feel free to eviscerate our selection.

The model above is shown with American options and is priced in Freedom Dollars. As always, your dealer may sell for less.