LUCKY SEVEN

he Z badge dates back five decades, the 240Z (or ‘Fairlady’) being launched in 1969, but in the years that followed subsequent models appeared to get larger and softer, prompting enthusiasts to worry that the sports car had become a cruiser. But such concerns were quickly dispelled by the arrival of the 350Z, its notably muscular appearance leaving buyers in no doubt about its sporting intent. Launched in 2002 it arrived in the UK the following year with a price tag of £24,000, and the choice of two versions. The entry-level was generously equipped but the majority of buyers stumped up the extra £2500 for the GT Pack which brought the likes of leather trim, an upgraded Bose audio system and cruise control. With rear-wheel drive, meaty-feeling controls and a great soundtrack this was definitely a more purposeful take on the Z-car theme, and the promises made by the styling would be reinforced by a peek under the bonnet, computer game – just 176 came to the UK – and its 296bhp engine was adopted across the range when the 350Z was revised in 2006. A further highlight was the 309bhp HR engine fitted in 2007 which Nissan claimed was 80% new and required a subtle bonnet bulge. A year later the model would make way for its replacement, the 370Z.