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After the release of the new Nissan 370Z, Nissan factory tuner Cobra N+ has designed a wide range of exclusive options for refining the two-seater sports car. No major modifications were made to the engine, but Cobra N+ says its aerodynamic and handling enhancements made a lot of difference.
To reduce unsprung weight to a minimum level, Cobra has developed lightweight wheels with six double spokes, measuring 9Jx19 in the front and 10Jx19 in the back and shod with Pirelli rubber. The wheels are linked to stiffer-than-stock springs which lower the ride of the 370Z by 30 mm. An additional coil over suspension kit varies the ride height between 20 and 40mm on front and rear axle.
For aerodynamic enhancements, Cobra has introduced a diffuser insert for the production apron, custom developed and featuring a central reflector as well as custom cutouts for the two 120-mm tailpipes of the Cobra N+ sport exhaust system. The stainless-steel sport rear mufflers of the exhaust system feature new 120-mm tailpipe on either side. The electronically controlled flap allows selecting an exhaust note for the V6 engine ranging from discrete to racing, depending on what sound you’d like for your 370Z.
At the front, the tuner fitted the 370Z with a carbon fiber front spoiler, squeezed in the opening of the air inlet of the production front apron. Additionally, the body kit includes carbon-fiber-look covers for the outside rearview mirrors.
The new upgraded components will be offered through Nissan dealers in Japan only for now, and pricing is yet to be revealed.
Nissan’s upcoming Nismo 370Z - the sportiest Z on offer - has officially gone on sale, priced from $39,130 and available with just three accessories – Nismo branded carpeted floor mats ($115), illuminated kick plates ($200) and a carpeted trunk mat ($95).
The NISMO 370Z was developed by Nissan’s Specialty Vehicles Group in conjunction with tuning partner Autech Japan. The car is offered in one completely equipped model (no options) with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission and the SynchroRev Match function.
The SynchroRev Match - the world’s first synchronized downshift rev matching manual transmission system- automatically controls and adjusts engine speed when shifting to the speed of the next gear position, essentially "blipping" the throttle to smooth out any up/down shifts. This not only allows the driver to focus more on braking and steering, it improves vehicle balance and smoothness by reducing the typical "shock" when the clutch is engaged. The system can be deactivated with a button next to the shifter for drivers who prefer less vehicle intervention.
Power comes from a tuned version of the company’s 3.7-liter motor, offering 350 horsepower at 7,400 rpm — an increase of 18 hp over the standard model. Peak torque is 276 pound-feet at 5,200 rpm — 6 lb-ft. more than the regular 370Z. The extra oomph is courtesy of an exclusive H-configured exhaust system design and muffler tuning, along with an optimized ECU.
“The NISMO name is known throughout the world as the leading supplier of race-bred, factory-tuned, extreme performance Nissan parts, accessories and vehicles,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America. “The new, second-generation NISMO Z proudly – and deservedly – wears the NISMO badge, carrying on the tradition of bringing racing- inspired performance and engineering to the street.”
To improve chassis, engineers added a stiffer strut tower bar brace and a pair of performance dampers. The standard double-wishbone and four-link suspension has also been specially tuned for improved stability and handling. Compared to the standard 370Z Coupe, front spring rates have been dialed up 15%, rear spring rates 10%, front stabilizer bar rate upped 15% and the rear stabilizer bar is 50% stiffer. The roll stiffness rate has been increased by 15% and front and rear damping factors have been increased by 40% and 140% respectively.
Other features include large diameter 14.0in brakes with uprated four-piston aluminum calipers at the front and two-piston calipers in the rear. To set it apart from the standard model, the Nismo version has also been fitted with a full bodykit and bi-xenon headlights. Available color options include Pearl White, Brilliant Silver, Magnetic Black, Solid Red and Platinum Graphite.
Inside, there are Nismo logos on the seats and tachometer, as well as a sports steering wheel with leather and red stitching, and aluminum trimmed pedals. The final addition is a serialized plaque located on the center console.
“One look at the dramatic NISMO 370Z body and you know that this isn’t your everyday sports car,” said Castignetti. “The styling is highly emotional yet totally functional – expressing dynamic movement while enhancing airflow and downforce for enhanced aerodynamic performance.”
