2008 Nissan 350Z Roadster

Description

Based on U.S. News editors' analysis of 26 leading automotive reviews and test drives, the 2008 Nissan 350Z Roadster ranks #4 of 10 in Affordable Sports Cars and #3 of 5 in Affordable Two-Seat Convertibles.

The 2008 Nissan 350Z Roadster impresses reviewers with its sporty, yet practical, handling, comfortable bucket seats and long list of features. Still, its limited visibility and low grade materials detract from its overall appeal. If you're in the market for a convertible, you should also consider the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Honda S2000.

The 2008 Nissan 350Z Roadster offers a thrilling sports car performance, as well as an eye-catching top-down cruise. Forbes says the 350z Roadster is a good choice "if you want a quick nimble and fun open-air sports car that's comfortable enough for daily driving and highway cruising; you're a fan of the original 240Z and appreciate the 30-year heritage that traces back to it from today's Z car."

Available in three trims -- Enthusiast, Touring and Grand Touring -- the rear-wheel drive 350Z Roadster features a 306-horespower V6 engine that propels it from 0-60 miles per hour in less than six seconds. In comparison to the Mustang GT, Motor Trend concludes: "Think of the Mustang GT as Jake LaMotta, a punch-drunk heavyweight making a comeback from the brink of retirement. With a 300-horse V-8, it still packs quite a wallop. The 350Z, on the other hand, is Jackie Chan, kickboxing the competition with faster moves, quicker reflexes, and a more animated personality."

The Sacramento Bee says the 350z Roadster is "a uniquely styled, hot-performing, head-turning machine that is meant to be put through it paces by sports car purists who like to feel the rush of the wind in the open cockpit." Though IntelliChoice has yet to rate the 2008 350Z Roadster, it gives the highly-similar 2007 model a rating of "poor" for its predicted five-year total cost of ownership compared to other vehicles in its class.