- Chassis # N1AZ34E53T013124
- Raw And Focused Factory Track Edition
- Showing Just 12,100 Miles From New
- 1 Of Only 417 Produced In This Configuration For 2003
- A Remarkably Original And Unmodified Example
- Sale Includes Original Window Sticker, Factory Books and Promtional Materials, Jack, Tools, And Spare
The Overview
The Nissan 350Z was Nissan’s follow-up to the successful Nissan 300ZX Z32 and the Z-car’s fifth generation. Manufactured from 2002 to 2009, the 350Z was initially only available as a coupe with the roadster version coming later in 2003. The coupe version was available in Base, Enthusiast, Performance, Touring, and Track trim levels, while the Roadster only received the Enthusiast and Touring trim levels. 350Zs made between 2003 and 2004 used the 3.5L VQ35DE V6 engine rated at 287 HP and 274 lb-ft of torque. 2005 and certain 2006 models received a more powerful version of the engine that put out a higher 300 HP but a lower 260 lb-ft of torque. The 2007-2009 year model 350Zs received yet another version of the engine, this time dubbed the VQ35HR. Despite having the same displacement, it created a higher 306 HP and 268 lb-ft of torque than the engine in 2005-2006 models but still less torque than the VQ35DE in 2003-2004 models. Owners could choose between either a 5-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission depending on their needs.
The Track trim level included the Performance trim’s 18-inch Rays forged alloy lightweight wheels, as well as Brembo, vented disc brakes, front air dam, rear spoiler, traction control, cloth seats, VLSD, and optional GPS Navigation. Approximately 3,700 Track models were produced in the USA between 2003 and 2007.
This particular example, Chassis # JN1AZ34E53T013124, is a two-owner, low-mileage example of a 2003 Nissan 350Z Track Edition finished in Silverstone over a gray/black cloth interior, 1 of approximately 471 produced for the model year in this configuration. It is powered by the 287 HP VQ35DE V6 engine that puts power through a 6-speed Close-Ratio manual transmission. It was originally delivered to Concordville Nissan in Concordville, PA in early 2003 with floor mats, splash guards, aluminum kick plates, side airbags & curtains, and a trunk mat as manufacturer-installed options. These options totaled $935 and brought the car’s price to $35,554. It was purchased by its first owner in March of 2003 and taken to Bel Air, MD. The only service on record for the first owner was in October of 2006 at R. Stempler Nissan in Edgewood, MD where the car received a new fuel vent hose/filter. It was sold in September of 2017 to its second owner in Springfield, VA with only 9,000 miles on the odometer. The second owner continued to drive the car sparingly until September of 2021, adding only another 3,000 miles to bring the total to 12,064 miles.
This car is one of the few unmodified, low-mileage 350Zs still available on the market. This rarity is further accentuated by it being a focused and raw “Track” model, meaning it provides an excellent time capsule for those wishing to experience the raw sports car feel of Nissan’s offering from the early 2000s. Upon purchase, the new owner will receive the original window sticker as well as all of the original books and promotional materials.
The Details
exterior
body and paint
The body is straight on this 350z, and the panel gaps are small and consistent, as one would expect on an accident-free modern car. The “Silverstone'' paint looks and reads (on the paint meter) to be all original, and is in excellent condition with a deep metallic luster. There are a few small imperfections on the roof where it meets the trim above the passenger door, but the defects are minuscule and hard to spot. The front and rear bumpers are a slightly different shade of silver as the plastic ages differently than the metal body panels. The paint meter is unable to read the bumpers so we can not verify if they are original paint. The front bumper has some small chips and scratches, but only as much as one would expect with such low mileage. The rear bumper has almost no blemishes. Overall the car’s exterior exemplifies its low mileage and proper storage.
glass and trim
All the glass looks original with the proper stickers and etchings. We could not find any scratches or defects in the windows. There is very little trim on the car and what little there is, is in excellent condition. The same can be said for all the gaskets, lights, and insignias.
wheels
The factory-mounted, forged, lightweight Rays wheels are in excellent condition with no curb rash or blemishes to be found. The only knock against the wheels is that the insides of the mountain holes have some light scratching where it looks like someone removed the lug nuts a bit carelessly at some point.
notable flaws
The front bumper and leading edge of the hood have some small defects from 12k miles of driving. And there are a few small spots on the roof. Overall the car is stunning and in impressive condition.
interior
seats and surfaces
The interior reflects the mileage and looks and smells almost new. The charcoal gray seats are in excellent condition though there is a little wear on the driver’s seat upper side bolster. It's hard to see without the proper angle, but obviously getting in and out has rubbed this part of the seat more than the rest. The dash, headliner, carpet, etc are all excellent. The door panels are also in incredible condition, though the front part of the driver’s door panel, where one’s foot rubs on ingress and egress, has left a subtle mark. Also, the plastic panel above the driver’s side skirt has some very small scratches. These findings are very critical as the overall condition of the interior is immaculate.
functionality and accessories
Everything functions, all the switches, stalks, and HVAC functions. Unlike many 350Zs the sliding door for the stereo still retracts and slides properly.
engine bay and trunk
engine bay
The engine bay looks untouched and very clean. There is no sign of anything being altered or replaced. It looks like everything is stock, and in its proper place. If one wanted to be more fastidious, the underhood area could be further detailed.
trunk area
The large hatch/trunk area with its signature crossbar is clean, and we doubt this area has had much use. The trunk floor under the mat is clean and dust free. It looks like the jack and tools have never been used.
Underside
The underside is impressively clean and highlights the ingenuity and impressive engineering that went into these cars. All the suspension, brake, and exhaust components look to be in excellent shape. There are some small scrapes on the front lower plastic, below the bumper, and a few on the side skirts. But there is nothing that detracts from the overall cleanliness.
notable flaws
The engine bay could use further detailing, and there are some small scratches to be found when the car is in the air.
mechanicals
engine
These venerable Nissan V6s deserve their respected reputation. The motor starts quickly, sounds enthusiastic, and dashes for the redline with a blip of the throttle. There are no issues to be found.
transmission
The 6-speed transmission feels wonderfully mechanical, but it is still smooth in operation. The throws are short and direct, and the clutch picks up properly.
brakes and suspension
The car goes down the road well with no issues with the suspension or brakes. The ride quality is still relatively compliant even with the Track editions upgraded shocks and springs. The Track edition also has upgraded brakes, the pedal is firm and the car stops quickly and in a straight line.
tires
The Michelin Pilots Sports were mounted last year and have a 2019 date code. They have plenty of life left in them.
driving experience
The 350z is a classic on the rise with its own distinctive personality. The exhaust note is emblematic of this special and unique personality, just like a Saab 900 Turbo, Subaru WRX Sti, air-cooled 911, or 5.0 Mustang. Like those cars, the driving experience is unique and exhilarating. The motor is extremely smooth with a great power band. You sit further back in the car and it takes some time to find your place in the car, and on the road, but once you do, the 350z is a wonderful dance partner. It is still very analog and direct in all its controls, with the car constantly rewarding the driver with proper sounds and feels. It is an exhilarating classic that will rise in value and in standing.