[Sony]

The NISMO carpeted floor mats will run an additional $115, carpeted trunk mat is $95, while the NISMO illuminated kick plates will set you back $200. Don't worry, it's all in the name of looking cool. Adding to the boy racer styling package is a NISMO-tuned V6, producing 18 horses more than the base 370Z for a total of 350 HP @ 7,400 RPM and 276 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 RPM. You can thank the NISMO dual exhaust for that little bump.

Not content releasing just a mild power pack, NISMO has added a strut tower brace, new performance dampers, a viscous limited-slip differential and sport brakes. You can visit your local Nissan dealer and pick up your very own starting today.

As with the previous generation NISMO 350Z, the engineers at Nissan decided to tweak every dimension of the 370Z. Curiously, horsepower for the new NISMO 370 jumps to 350 HP @ 7,400 RPM, an increase of 18 HP over the standard 370Z. Torque is also up, reaching 276 lb-ft of twist @ 5,200 RPM. The minor bump in power comes courtesy of a NISMO-tuned dual exhaust.

Keeping the freer breathing Z planted on the track is a NISMO strut tower brace and new performance dampers. Power is routed through a new viscous limited-slip differential and braking is courtesy of Nissan sport brakes (similar to the Sport model).

The most obvious change is the new exterior, which, like Red Bull, gives the car wings. The new look is supposed to aid in aerodynamics and downforce but mostly just takes the 370Z, already walking the edge between sexy and strange, to a weird place.

The vehicle goes on sale this June for an as-of-yet undisclosed price. Keep your eye on our New York Auto Show coverage for more information.

At a Glance: 2009 Nissan NISMO 370Z

The all-new, second generation NISMO 370Z, which is set to go on sale at Nissan dealers
nationwide in June 2009, continues the tradition of the original by offering unique
performance and design attributes that true sports car enthusiasts are looking for – straight
from the factory. Like the limited production NISMO 350Z introduced two years earlier, the
new NISMO 370Z is a tuner-Z® enthusiast's dream, featuring 350 horsepower and 276 lb-ft
of torque, racing-inspired exterior and interior styling, a specially tuned suspension and
special super-lightweight forged alloy wheels. The NISMO 370Z was developed by Nissan's
Specialty Vehicles Group in conjunction with Autech Japan, Nissan's longstanding conversion
partner.

The NISMO 370Z's standard 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift
Control (VVEL) combines with a refined 4-wheel independent suspension and advanced FM
(Front Midship) platform to offer responsive performance and handling. The NISMO Z®'s
exclusive H-configured exhaust system design, muffler tuning and optimized ECM (Engine
Computer Module) control help provide responsive upper end power. As expected of a true
performance machine, the NISMO 370Z is offered with only one transmission – a close-ratio
6-speed manual transmission with standard "SynchroRev Match," the world's first
synchronized downshift rev matching manual transmission (which allows perfectly matched
heel-toe-like downshifting).

The NISMO 370Z also features a NISMO-branded strut tower brace for enhanced body
rigidity and a pair of performance dampers to manage road-input vibrations and help
contribute to the NISMO 370Z's high levels of stability and performance feel. The NISMO-
tuned suspension includes special springs and stabilizer bars. Unique 5-spoke 19-inch RAYS
forged aluminum-alloy wheels are mounted with Yokohama ADVAN Sport Y-rated high-
performance tires. Nissan Sport Brakes and a Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD) are
also standard on all NISMO 370Zs.

Along with its standout performance, the new NISMO Z® stands out from the crowd with its
dramatic performance-oriented exterior and interior. The functional and fully integrated
aerodynamic body pieces include an extended front nose with a canard design at each
corner for improved downforce and a fully integrated chin spoiler. Special side sills and a
unique rear bumper help control airflow under the vehicle, while the functional rear spoiler
also increases downforce.

The interior includes NISMO logo seats with black and red fabric and red stitching, a NISMO
tachometer, steering wheel with smooth leather and red parallel stitching, smooth leather-
wrapped shift knob and aluminum trimmed pedals. A serialized plaque of authenticity is
also matched to each NISMO Z®, identifying its unique serial and model year designation.

Highlights of the 2009 Nissan NISMO 370Z include:

- 2 -
- more -
Body:
• A high-rigidity body with a dynamic presence and aerodynamic design
• Special NISMO 370Z styling with wide, strong stance expressing dynamic movement
• Unique, fully integrated NISMO body design, including an extended front nose design
with optimized shape for managing airflow, an integrated front chin spoiler, side sills,
and a unique rear bumper and rear spoiler designed to maximize downforce
• 174.3-inch overall length
• Enhanced body rigidity with a NISMO strut tower bar and front and rear Performance
Dampers to manage body damping of vibrations from road input via the tires
• Lightweight aluminum hood, doors and hatchback
• High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights and LED brake lights with
distinctive "boomerang" design
• Signature vertical door handles, dual remote control mirrors
• Electric rear window defroster
• Front fender-mounted "flashing" Z® emblems/sidemarkers
• Polished exhaust tips
• Five available colors: Pearl White, Brilliant Silver, Magnetic Black, Solid Red and
Platinum Graphite

Engine and Driveline
• Front engine/rear-wheel drive
• Fourth-generation VQ series 3.7-liter engine, 24-valve DOHC V6 (VQ37VHR), rated at
350 horsepower @ 7,400 RPM, 276 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 RPM, red engine cover
• Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) system
• Micro-finished crankshaft and camshaft; small pitch, silent cam chain; drive-by-wire
throttle
• Standard 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission with "SynchroRev Match," the world's
first synchronized downshift rev matching manual transmission allowing perfectly
matched heel-toe-like downshifting
• NISMO-tuned dual exhaust with H-pipe configuration and larger diameter tubes for
reduced exhaust pressure
• Carbon Fiber composite driveshaft
• Standard Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD)

Suspension, Steering and Braking
• NISMO-tuned 4-wheel independent multi-link suspension with use of lightweight
aluminum components
• Double-wishbone front suspension, rear multi-link suspension; NISMO front strut tower
bar; high response shock absorbers
• Large diameter front and rear hollow NISMO-tuned stabilizer bars
• Vehicle speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion steering
• Power-assisted vented front and rear disc brakes, 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System
(ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA)
• Nissan Sport Brakes with 14.0-inch front/13.8-inch rear rotors and 4-piston front/2-
piston rear aluminum calipers
• Unique NISMO-branded 19-inch RAYS super lightweight 5-spoke forged-alloy wheels –
19x9.5-inch front, 19x10.5-inch rear
• Yokohama ADVAN Sport P245/40R19 front and P285/35R19 rear tires, Y-rated

- 3 -
Interior Features
• High quality interior with innovative, driver-centric "three-layer" design with information,
operation and holding layers
• 2-passenger seating with unique driver and passenger seat designs and functions
• Distinctive black and red seat trim with NISMO logo
• Unique smooth leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter knob
• NISMO signature red stitching on the steering wheel, seats, center instrument panel,
instrument panel console lid, door trim and knee pads
• NISMO tachometer
• NISMO 370Z plaque of authenticity with serial number and model year designation
• Aluminum-trimmed pedals
• Driver's seat shaped to help hold the body firmly in place without interfering with
shifting • 8-way manual driver's seat, 4-way manual passenger's seat with manual seatback fold-
down function
• 3-bay gauge pods, tilt steering column with integrated instrument cluster
• Adjustable front head restraints
• Standard automatic temperature control
• Power windows with auto one-touch up and down feature
• Power door locks with auto locking feature
• Two 12-volt power outlets, four cupholders (two in door panels, two in center console)
• Standard cruise control
• Standard Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition

Safety and Security
• Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags
with seat belt and occupant classification sensors
• Front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags
• Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags
• 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
• 3-point ALR/ELR seatbelts (driver's seatbelt ELR only)
• Front seat Active Head Restraints
• Zone Body Construction
• Energy-absorbing steering column
• Standard Vehicle Security System
• Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System
• Standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS)
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Models
• NISMO 370Z Coupe offered in one model (6-speed manual transmission only)

Nissan has already shown what the new 370Z roadster in an official patent office drawing, but they're decidedly boring. GlobalMotors has taken the game a step further and digitally replicated what ragtop version will look like in full frame.

Word is the roadster will be powered by the same 332 HP 3.7 Liter V6 found in the Z coupe. Expect it to show its toothy grin at the next New York Auto Show.

[GlobalMotors]

The Nissan offered in the People's Republic of China is similar to the Nissan Versa 1.6 in that there's no option for the 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. Nissan could put the 1.8-liter engine in the PRC Tiida and they'd go nuts over the performance. Here they would have to offer a bit more to the vehicle, maybe a transplant from the Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V, than paint and a sweet badge. Given the existence of the Sentra SE-R and move to make the Versa cheaper we're not holding our breath. [China Car Times]

The Nismo S-Tune Aero Package focuses on aerodynamic and aesthetic mods, eliminating lift, increasing downforce and minimizing drag. It includes:

- Nose Extension
- Front Lip Spoiler
- Side Skirts
- Rear Spoiler
- Rear diffuser
- Nismo Floor Mats (score!)

The Nismo S-Tune Performance Package is the one we’re interested in, bringing simple, effective modifications that should make the most of the 370Z’s performance:

- Stainless Steel Performance Exhaust
- 19” Forged Aluminum Nismo LMZ5 Wheels
- Nismo S-Tune Springs and Dampers
- Nismo S-Tune Brake Pads
- Nismo Floor Mats (double score!)

Pricing isn’t announced yet, but expect to pay a little over the odds to have any of this fitted at the dealer. We’ll be bringing you live coverage of the 370Z’s official unveiling at the LA Auto Show next week. [via WCF]

Well, despite the name Evolution coming from the interwebosphere, this may be nothing more than an example of the name getting a little bit lost in translation as we're also hearing this mid-range GT-R may go by the more historically appropriate name of "S-Tune."

This middle-of-the-road model may even see an unveil as early as this August 20th to coincide with the launch of the new line of NISMO goodies available as upgrades for standard GT-R owners. Expect new wheels, exhaust system, stiffer suspension, some aero add-ons, and a reprogrammed ECU. Just reading that list probably makes us want to go play Gran Tursimo. Needless to say, this new GT-R S-Tune sounds like a pretty good substitute while we all wait for the full on Mecha-Godzilla GT-R Spec-V. [leblogauto, via TMR]

And no racer would be complete without some sort of carbon fiber, so that's been thrown in as well. If you've got a quarter-mil just sitting around and don't feel like taking the time to build your own we say go for it. [Nismo via Japanese Performance Car News]

[via Winding Road]

Other models Nissan will bring to the show include a modified Skyline Coupe, Xanavi NISMO Z Super GT2007 racer, Endless Advan Z racer and the Dualis Premium concept. We look forward to the X-TREME X-TREMIST EDITION. Le Blog Auto via

Vazin went on to say "It's not all or nothing, we're certainly reviewing it against a larger motorsports strategy, but for 2008 we're taking a pause." He wouldn't give a reason for doing so, other than saying they're working on strategy, but he did deny that it was at all a financial decision.

On the awkward timing given the introduction of the Nissan GT-R, Vazin responded with questions "The GT-R goes on sale in June, so we're a good six months away [and] the company is considering what to do with the GT-R. Can we go racing with it? What series could we be in that would be consistent across all markets?"

Though he insisted that Nissan was out of racing for FY2008, which for Nissan means March 31, 2009, the door was left open for the future "At the moment we finished CORR (Championship Off Road Racing) season for 2007 and felt pretty good about where we ended, and now it's a chance to reflect on what's the return and where we can make a difference."

You heard it here first. Nissan is out. Does this mean a great return in FY 2009 highlighted by a NISMO racing GT-R? Or will Nissan's reflection lead to them continuing their motorsports freeze? Only time will tell.

Press Release:

NISSAN GT-R TO DEBUT IN JAPAN'S SUPER GT SERIES

TOKYO (Oct. 25, 2007) - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., and Nissan Motorsports International Co., Ltd. (NISMO) today announced that the NISSAN GT-R will run in the GT500 class of the SUPER GT series in Japan for the 2008 season. It has been four years since the GT-R last competed in Japan , when it won the Japan GT Championship in 2003 . Private testing is planned to start soon in Japan.

Details including vehicle specifications and team structure will be announced at the Nissan Motorsports Press Conference in February 2008.

Like many hot Japanese domestic market rides (Evo, WRX), Electronic Arts' Polyphony Digital's Gran Turismo is usually credited with alerting the American pistonhead's inner hoon to Nissan's world beater. We remember the Skyline from back when Mario was riding karts. In fact, the Skyline has been the stuff of dreams for several decades. In 1957, the Prince motor company released their first luxury car, the four-door Skyline. Powered, or rather underpowered, by a 1.5-liter straight four, the first Skyline was capable of reaching a grand total of 87 mph. Saving its bacon (in our mind at least) is the fact that the Skyline was available as both a wagon and a 'camino. And later as a coupe and a convertible. But pay no mind to its humble beginnings.

C10 GT-R

In 1966 Prince merged with Nissan-Datsun. In 1968 the company released the C10 Skyline, a rather handsome looking sedan still powered by a 1.5-liter engine (G-15), though power was up to 94 hp. In 1969, the Skyline GT-R came to market complete with a 2.0-liter DOHC straight-six good for 160 hp. The US spec Porsche 911 S was making 170 hp in 1969 (thought the Euro-spec model was good for 190 hp). Meaning the GT-R was seriously fast, especially for a JDM vehicle.

Later Nissan came out with a coupe version and, combined, the two body styles racked up 1,000 racing victories by the time they went out of production in 1972. Nissan blamed the car's fate on the oil crisis. The final iteration of the original Skyline (known as the KPGC110 2000GT-R) sold only 197 copies and was never raced. We know the C10 Skyline GT-R is a long shot for the Fantasy Garage and has as much chance of making it as Clay Aiken does finding a nice girl, but we're giving you the chance to vote on it for one simple reason: To battle the C10's notorious understeer, racers took to grabbing the handbrake while in motion. And just like that, drifting was born.

R32 GT-R

After mucking about for most of the 70s and 80s (though the C211 GT-ES was the first turbocharged Japanese car), Nissan big time bellied up to the bar in 1989 with the eighth-generation Skyline, the R32 GT-R. If being the first truly mega-performance Skyline counts for anything, than this is the car to go in the Fantasy Garage. Let's start with the engine.

The 2.6-liter RB26DETT (the RB prefix may or may not have stood for "Race Bred") was designed to produce 500 hp in racing tune. As sold, the RB26DETT with its twin-ceramic intercooled turbos, noisy recirculating blow off valve and DOHC four-valve heads put out 276 hp. Like most of our Fantasy Garagers, the R32 GT-R actually stonked closer to 320 horses, but because of Japan's lingering "gentleman's agreement," all cars sold on the island nation could be sold producing no more than 276 hp. However, Nissan colored the governor in the control lines yellow so owners could easily yank it out once they left the dealership. Long story short, the R32 was bloody fast. And with a little bit of tweaking, 600 hp is easily achieved. With some severe wrenching, 1,340+ hp was attainable (that's one megawatt for you metric types)!

Unlike last week's Buick GNX, which was also underrated in the power department, the Skyline was designed to do much more than go straight fast. Its all-wheel-drive system known as ATTESA E-TS was ridiculously advanced for the time. Lead engineer Naganori Itoh followed the mighty footsteps of Porsche's 959. Therefore the ATTESA E-TS was essentially a rear-drive system (constant power to the rear diff) with a transfer case mounted at the back of the gearbox to supply torque to the front wheels if slippage is detected at the rear. Just like in the 959, a chain-driven, multi-plate wet clutch pack routes power through a central differential when called for. The GT-R also featured Super HICAS electronic four-wheel steering. The cars were light, too.

The result of all this technology is the stuff of legend. At the time of its release the 'Ring record was 8:45 set by a Porsche 944. The R32 GT-R did the deed in 8:20, totally shattering Porsche's record and humiliating the Germans at the same time. From 1989 to 1993 the R32 GT-R entered 29 JTCC (Japanese Touring Car Championship) races and won 29 times. The R32 GT-R also dominated Australia's Great Race (the Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000) winning in 1991 & 1992. The controversial 1992 race, which was stopped due to rain, was particularly memorable. Leading at the time of cancellation, Skyline driver Jim Richards was declared winner and subsequently booed on the podium, prompting the Kiwi to call the Aussie fans, "a pack of arseholes." Known simply as "Godzilla," no vehicle before or since has been so dominant. What a car.

R33 GT-R NISMO 400R
1995 saw the introduction of the R33 GT-R. Bigger, heavier and more refined. Enthusiasts were not pleased. In truth, the dumpy-looking R33 GT-R was nominally better than its predecessor in every meaningful way, most complained that it was not as driver focused. So, Nissan fixed the problem, and fixed it good.

Meet the 1996 NISMO 400R. Only 99 were made and they cost an arm and two legs. However, they left the factory producing more than 400 hp (some sources claim as much as 450 hp) thanks to the venerable RB26DETT. Only now, it was bored out to 2771 cc and fitted with upgraded pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft and intercooler. The 400R's zero-to-60 time was in the 4.5 second range and top speed was rumored to be north of 200 mph. The suspension, AWD and AWS (all-wheel steering) systems were also improved and downforce-generating body work was added. Possibly as important, the 400R looked the part.

But forget all that. Here is why you want to vote the NISMO 400R Skyline in: The specialist-tuned 400R was the first production car to lap the Nurburging Nordschleife in less than 8 minutes. If we're being honest, there is some controversy surrounding this record as Jaguar's XJ220 had unofficially lapped the 'Ring in 7:46. Still, the fact that a hopped up Nissan can be mentioned in the same sentence as a half-million dollar hyper car is reason enough for us.

R34 GT-R

Happily, Nissan came roaring back to form in 1999 with the tenth-generation R34 Skyline. The new car had an improved and shortened chassis, a Getrag six-speed (up from five gears on all previous cars), improved suspension, a splitter and diffuser and red valve covers. The last of the great Skylines also came equipped with an LCD screen that displayed such need-to-knows as turbo boost pressure, lap times and lateral g-forces. The final Skyline also looked much more sporting, finally shedding the wolf in sheep's clothing disguise favored by its predecessors. Oh, and the shocks, steering and brakes were improved.

The R34 was also available in a seemingly endless variety of specifications. The GT-R V-Spec II had NACA ducting, brake ventilation, a carbon-fiber hood and more body kit. The M-Spec (the M literally stood for "Man") featured heated leather seats and softer suspension. The GT-R V-Spec II, with radio, AC, rear wiper and sound insulation deleted, had a blueprinted N1 motor plus a 300 kph speedo. The ultimate R34 was of course the NISMO Z-tune. Nissan only produced 20, and each car was good for 500 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Nuff said. Happy voting.

Gawker Media polls require Javascript; if you're viewing this in an RSS reader, click through to view in your Javascript-enabled web browser.

[The Jalopnik Fantasy Garage appears every Tuesday. Readers vote the cars in or out. The idea is that we'll have 50 cars in our Fantasy Garage, the world's greatest mechanic and endless wads of cash. Would you like to nominate a car for the Fantasy Garage? Write tips@jalopnik.com with the subject line "Fantasy."]

The Jalopnik Fantasy Garage, So Far:
RUF RT12 | Maserati Quattroporte Executive GT | 1978 Aston Martin V8 Vantage | Honda 1300 Coupe 9 | 1931 Daimler Double Six 50 Corsica Drophead Coupe | Ferrari 288 GTO | Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 | 1970 Buick GSX 455 | First Generation BMW M Coupe | Bugatti Veyron 16.4 | Ford GT | Citroen SM | Porsche 928 | Jensen FF | DeTomaso Vallelunga | Audi Quattro S1 | Buick GNX

Related:
Jalopnik Fantasy Garage: Buick GNX; Nissan GT-R at Goodwood: Porsche May Have Something to Worry About; The Jalopnik Fantasy Garage [Internal]

We swung by the Nissan booth for another look at the Nismo 350Z's plastic fantastic add ons and various motorsporting sundries. But c'mon, aesthetes, it's all functional, says Nissan. We tried to sneak underneath to snap some shots of the NISMO-tuned multilink suspension, to no avail. Next time we're bringing an extra mechanic's creeper and a can of STP. – Mike Spinelli

Related:
NISMO! Factory Tuner Nissan 350Z Coming to the New York Show [internal]

Nissan's kicking out its in-house tuner 350Z, the 2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z, at the New York auto show next week. The Nissan Motorsports tweak job includes a body kit, Brembo speed-reduction clamps and a handling package. It'll come with six-speed only (sorry, mom) and will go on sale in July '07. If it looks familiar, it's because NISMO is basing the package on its Super GT championship Z. Think of it as Japan's answer to Le Mans GT1. We'll look it in the eye next week in NYC. – Mike Spinelli

Press Release:

2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z Continues Tradition of Performance With Super GT Race-Inspired Styling and Features

Taking Performance One Step Further With the 2007 NISMO 350Z

For the first time ever in the Nissan Z's 37-year history, a high-performance NISMO 350Z is part of the extensive Z lineup. The new 2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z, which makes its North American debut at the 2007 New York International Auto Show, features an extensively developed list of unique equipment - including a special body package and improved handling equipment. This new model, the fifth in the 2007 350Z Coupe lineup, is available with a 6-speed manual transmission only. It goes on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in July 2007.

NISMO, the premier supplier of high-performance aftermarket parts and accessories for Nissan vehicles in the United States since 2003, previously participated in the development of the NISMO Frontier off-road pickup truck, introduced in 2005. The NISMO 350Z is the second Nissan model to be branded with the legendary marque. Like the Frontier model, which is specially equipped for off-road excursions, the 2007 NISMO 350Z is optimized for enthusiast drivers.

"With the combination of the new VQ35HR engine found on all 2007 350Zs and NISMO performance and design enhancements, the NISMO 350Z represents the pinnacle of Nissan performance machines," said Bill Bosley, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA).

"The NISMO 350Z is the ideal package for true enthusiasts - adding a high level of aesthetic and performance enhancing equipment which is not available in the aftermarket - while retaining the reliability, durability, and comprehensive warranty found standard on every 2007 Nissan 350Z," he continued.

The most striking visual feature of this special vehicle is the NISMO aerodynamics package, which strongly resembles the Super GT championship winning Zs. Featuring an aggressive front fascia with chin spoiler, side skirts, an extended rear fascia with underbody diffuser and a rear wing, the NISMO 350Z produces additional aerodynamic downforce to provide enhanced cornering and handling performance.

Special consideration is given during assembly of the NISMO 350Z - structural rigidity is enhanced by additional body welds to the already rigid 350Z body and additional supports have been added front and rear. The NISMO 350Z also utilizes special body dampers mounted in the front radiator core support and in the rear cargo area, which assist in controlling body vibrations.

Additional performance features include a special NISMO-tuned independent multi-link suspension, Brembo brakes with four-piston front and two-piston rear calipers (with 12.8-inch front and 12.7-inch rear rotors) and special NISMO-branded gunmetal gray RAYS super lightweight forged-alloy wheels (18x9-inch front and 19x10-inch rear with 245/40WR18 front, 265/35WR19 rear Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires). A special NISMO-branded tuned exhaust adds an even more authoritative tone to the Z's 306-horsepower V6 engine.

"The combination of aerodynamic enhancements and performance tuning adds up to a Z with enhanced cornering, steering precision and handling," said Bosley. "Every exterior and mechanical improvement made to the NISMO 350Z isn't just for show, it's also for performance."

Four exterior colors are available, including Redline Red, Magnetic Black, Silver Alloy and Pikes Peak White.

Inside, NISMO 350Z drivers receive special treatment with unique black cloth seats with red inserts, red stitching throughout the interior and special NISMO white-faced tachometer. All NISMO 350Zs receive a serialized NISMO-etched aluminum plaque mounted on the center console, designating its limited edition status.

The NISMO 350Z includes a full complement of 350Z standard features, including the new VQ35HR 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 306 horsepower @ 6,800 RPM and 268 lb-ft of torque @ 4,800 RPM - with more than 90% of torque available between 2,000 and 7,000 RPM. Engine features include variable exhaust cam timing (eCVTCS), a 7,500 rpm rev limit and a symmetric twin ram air intake system.

The standard 6-speed manual transmission features close-ratio gearing from 1st through 5th gears for high-performance driving and an overdrive 6th speed for highway fuel economy. For performance handling, standard on the NISMO 350Z is a Traction Control System (TCS) and Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD).

Also standard is electronically-controlled vehicle speed-sensitive dual-orifice rack-and-pinion power steering system, front and rear strut tower bracing, 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA), HomeLink Universal Transceiver, cruise control, aluminum pedals, illuminated steering wheel audio controls and auto dimming rearview mirror, power windows, 3-bay gauge cluster, High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-xenon (high and low beam) headlights, LED taillights, Advanced Air Bag System, side and curtain side-impact supplemental air bags and Active Head Restraints.

"The NISMO 350Z is geared towards enthusiasts who want the ultimate 350Z straight from the factory performance experts," said Bosley. "They also want a Z that makes a statement and is a testament to their love of driving."

In addition to the new NISMO 350Z, the 2007 350Z Coupe is offered in Base, Enthusiast, Touring and Grand Touring models. The 2007 350Z Roadster is offered in three models - Enthusiast, Touring and Grand Touring.

About NISMO

NISMO originated in Japan in 1984 and has established itself as the premier supplier of high-performance aftermarket parts and accessories for Nissan vehicles in Japan and, since 2003, in the United States. NISMO components in the U.S. cover three areas - NISMO "S-tune" (which are backed by Nissan's Parts and Accessory Limited Warranty, see warranty and dealer for details), "R-tune" suited for closed-track and off-road use and NISMO apparel and lifestyle items. Also available are Legacy components for older Nissan and Datsun vehicles. R-tune and Legacy components are designated for off-highway use and are not warranted. NISMO parts are available only through participating Nissan dealers.

Related:
The Nissan GT-R: A Bargain-Basement GT? [internal]

Continuing our current obsession with driver-POV videos from the N rburgring, we came across another clip that's been knocking about. The star of the show is a Nissan Skyline Z-Tune, a 500-hp, extremely limited edition of the R34 Skyline GT-R, though best supporting actor goes to the driver, who flexes mad skills on the right-drive JDM hardware. The clip even sports a gear-selector graphic for reference. Watch and get schooled.

Related:
Flying the RUF Porsche 911 Yellow Bird on the Nurburgring [internal]

A few months back, we reported Nissan's in-house tuning shop, Nissan Motorsports (Nismo) was planning to heighten its profile outside Japan. It's been doing so over the course of 2005, launching the Nismo Frontier pickup in the US and showing off its R-tune 350Z show car at this year's Goodwood Festival of Speed. Now, it's adding new evidence in its case for aftermarket performance-parts cred among Nissan owners and the cars they sweat, with two new showcase vehicles.

An R-tune Altima 2.5 S, including cold-air intake, 18" bronze wheels, suspension mods, rear spoiler, shocks and springs, header, cat-back exhaust, high-performance cams and other cosmetics, and an S-tune spec'd SE, which 18" aluminum-alloy wheels mounting and similar suspension and body mods — just about everything but the engine work. The cars will be featured at this year's SEMA show in November and other auto shows to be announced.

Related:
Nismo Wants to Be Nissan's AMG; More on the Nismo Super Z-tune Skyline; Nissan's NISMO 350Z S-Tune GT [internal]