Nissan 350Z 0-60 Times (2024 Retrospective)

By: Max F. Arellano / March 22, 2024

Nissan 350Z 0-60 times range from the low 5-second range to 6 seconds, which is not much slower than its younger brother the 370Z, and is still considered quick even today.

350Z 0-60 Times

The 350Z did not suffer from a lack of testing, as almost every model year had multiple track tests from reputable sources.

What we learn from this is that the 350Z's various trims, whether it be the enthusiast or the NISMO, had essentially no effect on acceleration, which makes sense considering the performance-related changes between trims were more concerned with braking and handling than speed.

Analysis

From 2003, the model year that the 350Z was introduced, up through 2006, there were no changes in the 350Z's 0-60 time. Which, other than an unusually fast Track edition that Motortrend tested in '04, were recorded around the mid-5-second range.

For the time, this was considered exceptional given the 350Z's lower price point. It offered similar horsepower and speed as a Porsche Boxster for half the price, at just $26,000 for the base trim.

The 0-60 time didn't improve until the VQ35HR engine was introduced in 2007. With approximately 80% new components, this engine pushed the 350Z's limits to 306 horsepower, achieving 0-60 mph in a mere 5.2 seconds, as seen with the Enthusiast and NISMO trims.

The 350Z was discontinued after 2008, making way for the 370Z. And given that the 370Z was only achieving a 0-60 time of about 4.7 seconds as recently as 2020, it's fair to say that the 350Z holds up remarkably well in terms of performance.

Improving your 350Z's 0-60 Time

If you're not satisfied with a 5-second 0-60 time, you might be interested in how you can improve it.

Lucky for you, the 350Z is a highly tunable platform. For example, the GReddy modded 350Z with a twin-turbocharger improved the 0-60 time to 4.6 seconds.

Here are some of the most popular modification options for the 350Z:

Cold Air Intake

The installation of a Cold Air Intake (CAI) system is one of the most accessible and effective modifications for the Nissan 350Z. By drawing in cooler air from outside the engine compartment, a CAI improves combustion efficiency. Cooler air is denser and contains more oxygen, which helps to burn fuel more completely, thereby enhancing power and torque.

Benefits:

• Improved Horsepower and Torque: Expect an increase of a few horsepower due to more efficient combustion.
• Enhanced Engine Sound: The intake not only improves performance but also adds a more aggressive intake note, enhancing the driving experience.
• Better Fuel Economy: Although not the primary goal for many, the increased efficiency can lead to slight improvements in fuel economy under certain driving conditions.

Considerations: While installing a CAI is relatively straightforward and can be a DIY project, it's essential to choose a reputable brand to ensure the system is designed to prevent water intake and fits well with existing engine components.

Plenum Spacer

The Plenum Spacer is a uniquely effective modification for the VQ35DE engine found in the 350Z, especially in models before the VQ35HR update. This spacer is installed between the intake plenum and the lower intake manifold, increasing the volume of the intake plenum and altering the path of the air flowing into the engine.

Benefits:

• Balanced Airflow: By increasing plenum volume, the spacer can help balance airflow to all cylinders, which can improve mid-range power and torque.
• Reduced Heat Transfer: Some spacers are designed to reduce heat transfer from the engine to the intake air, helping to keep the incoming air cooler and denser.
• Affordable Performance Boost: As a relatively inexpensive mod, the plenum spacer offers a cost-effective way to enhance engine performance.

Considerations: Ensure the spacer thickness is appropriate for your specific model and setup. Too thick of a spacer can lead to fitment issues or require additional modifications.

       

Turbo Kit

            

For those seeking a significant performance increase, installing a Turbo Kit on the 350Z can be transformative. By forcing more air into the combustion chamber, turbocharging can significantly increase horsepower and torque figures.

Benefits:

• Dramatic Performance Gains: A well-tuned turbo setup can see horsepower and torque increases of 50% or more, turning the 350Z into a high-performance beast.
• Customization Options: Turbo kits come in various configurations, allowing for customization based on performance goals, budget, and desired driving characteristics.
• Enhanced Engine Sound: The addition of a turbocharger adds a distinctive spooling sound and blow-off valve noise, appealing to many enthusiasts.

Considerations: Turbocharging is a complex and often costly modification that can require additional upgrades (such as fuel system, exhaust, and engine internals) to support the increased power safely. It's also important to consider the impact on engine reliability and maintenance requirements.

Each of these modifications offers a pathway to not just incrementally improve the 350Z's performance but to significantly transform it. Whether you're looking for a slight boost in efficiency and sound with a Cold Air Intake, balanced power delivery through a Plenum Spacer, or a major horsepower increase with a Turbo Kit, there's a spectrum of enhancements to suit various goals and budgets.

    

Conclusion

The 350Z offered power normally reserved for much more expensive cars at an accessible price. Even 2 decades later, it provides well above average acceleration. Not only that, but it offers a highly moddable platform in case you ever tire of its stock performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast is a stock 350Z?

The stock Nissan 350Z's 0 to 60 mph acceleration times can vary depending on the model year and trim. Generally, they range from about 5.2 to 6.1 seconds. The variance is due to differences in engine versions, weight, and transmission types across different models and years. As far as top speed, the Nissan 350Z can reach 155 MPH.

How fast is the 2003 350Z 0 to 60?

The 2003 Nissan 350Z, equipped with the VQ35DE engine and a manual transmission, typically achieves a 0 to 60 mph time of approximately 5.7 seconds. This can vary slightly based on conditions and specific vehicle setups.

What is the 0 to 60 time for a 2005 350Z?

The 2005 Nissan 350Z achieved 0 to 60 mph times ranging from 5.7 to 5.8 seconds. This includes the 35th Anniversary Edition Coupe, which boasts 300 horsepower.

How fast is 370Z 0 to 60?

The Nissan 370Z, which succeeded the 350Z, shows improved performance with 0 to 60 mph times generally around 4.7 seconds for models equipped with the VQ37VHR engine. This time is for stock models with manual transmissions and no performance modifications.

Is a 350Z 5 speed or 6 speed?

The Nissan 350Z came with both 5-speed automatic and 6-speed manual transmissions, depending on the model and year. The 6-speed manual was more common in enthusiast-focused trims (such as the Performance, Track, and Nismo editions), emphasizing the car's sporty credentials.