The Good
The 2003 Nissan 350Z offers a compelling blend of performance and value. Emotionally, its sporty design and responsive handling provide an engaging driving experience. Practically, its V6 engine delivers decent reliability and sufficient power. While not luxurious, it's comfortable enough for daily driving, making it a well-rounded sports car for the price.
The Bad
Common weaknesses of the 2003 Nissan 350Z include potential oil consumption issues, especially in early models. Premature clutch wear can also be a problem. The interior materials aren't the highest quality. Listen for clicking sounds in the rear, indicating differential issues. Rust can be a concern in certain climates.
2003 Nissan 350Z: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 3.5L V6 (VQ35DE)
- Horsepower: 287 hp @ 6200 rpm
- Torque: 274 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
- Fuel Economy:
- City: 18 mpg (manual), 20 mpg (automatic)
- Highway: 25 mpg (manual), 26 mpg (automatic)
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 5.4-5.8 seconds (depending on transmission and testing conditions)
- Towing Capacity: Not Applicable (designed as a sports car)
- Trim Level Features:
- Base: Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, power windows and locks, and a CD stereo.
- Enthusiast: Adds traction control, vehicle dynamic control (VDC), and aluminum pedals.
- Touring: Includes leather seats (heated), Bose audio system, and an optional navigation system.
- Track: Features lightweight alloy wheels, Brembo brakes, front and rear spoilers, and a cloth interior. It is designed for enhanced track performance.
- Grand Touring: Combines the features of the Touring trim with the performance enhancements of the Track trim, offering a blend of luxury and sportiness. It has leather/suede seats and the Brembo brakes.
2003 Nissan 350Z Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2003 |
| Make | Nissan |
| Model | 350Z |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Coupe |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | YOKOSUKA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | VQ35DE |
| Engine Size | 3.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2003 Nissan 350Z Have?
Recalls for the 2003 350Z included issues with the fuel filler tube, which could crack and leak, and potential problems with the seat belt assembly. Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the engine's oil consumption and the durability of the interior components. The window motors and door handles have also been known to fail over time. Regular maintenance, including frequent oil checks and timely repairs, is crucial for mitigating these issues and ensuring the longevity of the vehicle. Some electrical gremlins may surface with age, requiring diagnostic troubleshooting.
How long will the 2003 Nissan 350Z last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features are limited to traction control and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) on specific trims. Safety features include dual front airbags, side-impact airbags, and anti-lock brakes (ABS). There were no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) available in 2003.
Crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) varied. The NHTSA gave the 2003 350Z four stars for driver and front passenger protection in frontal crashes, and five stars for side-impact protection. The IIHS rated it "Acceptable" in the moderate overlap front test. The car was designed to be sporty, therefore, technology was not a key focus at the time of its release.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2003 Nissan 350Z Prices and Market Value
2003 Nissan 350Z Cost of Ownership
2003 Nissan 350Z Fuel Efficiency
2003 Nissan 350Z Safety Rating
NHTSA
2003 Nissan 350Z Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2003 Nissan 350Z Compare to Other Coupe?
In terms of features, the 350Z was relatively basic. The Z4 offered more luxury features. Reliability-wise, the 350Z is generally more reliable than the RX-8 but less so than the S2000. The price point of the 350Z made it attractive compared to the BMW.
Alternatives include the Infiniti G35 coupe (which shares a similar platform but offers more practicality), the Mazda MX-5 Miata (for a more affordable and nimble roadster experience), and the Porsche Boxster (for a more premium and refined sports car experience). The 350Z offers a good balance of performance, price, and style.
Ranks #1278 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1278 | 2003 Nissan 350Z | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Nissan 350Z a Good Coupe?
Charlie on May 19, 2024
2003 350Z with 6SPD manual own it for over 20 years, this2003 350Z with 6SPD manual own it for over 20 years, this car is the poor men Ferrari rolling along at 60 in 3rd gear and punch it, it takes off like a rocket ( no need for turbo). I have had over 300 cars in the last 25 years, hands down this one is the best for over all REAL car experience for the money, don't need to spend $50K for lousy Mopar. plus it holds its value. its also the only car that wi get you 24 MPG city and 30 MPG Hwy if you keep your heavy foot off the gas, no sports car can do that . also it is the best front to rear weight ration, 49% front and 51% rear. Its a sunday driver so the mileage on it is less than 25K now after all these years. other then oil and battery once awhile, no other issues.
Nissan4life on May 27, 2020
Most reliable car I’ve ownedThis car met all of my needs for the time I had it. I would recommend d this car to a friend who needs a good cheap reliable car.
LoRida on March 8, 2020
Fun Drive!Lots of hp, fun to drive! It is a very strong car and shifts smooth for an 03'. Enjoyed owning it, just need something bigger for now!
350z_funatic on March 3, 2020
Makes driving fun again!The 350z is an out of the box performance sport coupe. Makes the commute fun again with excellent handling and thrilling acceleration. This rear wheel drive V6 puts the driver back in CHARGE!
Pedro92 on November 9, 2019
Amazing carHad this car for almost 10 years, no issues ever, very low maintenance, great handling, comfortable, neck-cracker. It was just amazing overall, and it has kept it's value.
AlonsoHF on November 8, 2019
Super FunThe car met all my needs in terms of being fun and fast! Made for a pretty easy daily driver! Engine wise the car was flawless but the suspension took some getting used to!
SouthernZ33 on September 22, 2019
The best Asian sports carAnything good you’ve heard about them, is probably true. Besides the comfort and basic interior features (which no one buys sports cars for that really), this car will be everything you want it to be and more.
Michael on August 25, 2019
Good all around package. PerformanceGood all around package. Performance, Reliability, Good fuel economy, Fun to drive Sports car. The car can be used as a commuter car, for pleasure, or both
Ryan_23 on June 27, 2019
Best car I’ve ownedThis vehicle is comfortable and fun to drive, it’s great for just getting around town and long road trips, I hate to sell it but I’m in need of a four door vehicle
kathyo on January 28, 2019
I love this carOf all the cars which I have owned this is my favorite car. I love driving my Nissan 350z, it is so beautiful and powerful and I am sad to have to sell it. I have have had both a knee replacement and a hip replacement and I need to sell the car. I hope you will love this car as much as I have. I purchased the car new and kept the car well maintained and used it to commute back and forth from work.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.