2016 Nissan 370Z Nismo Review: The Last of the Purebred Analog Sports Cars

Introduction: The Analog Warrior of the Modern Era

In an automotive landscape increasingly dominated by turbocharged engines, electric power steering, and intrusive driver-assist technologies, the 2016 Nissan 370Z Nismo stands out as a proud, unapologetic purist. Born from Nissan’s legendary Z-car heritage, this high-performance variant represents the absolute peak of the Z34 generation. Developed by Nissan's in-house tuning division, Motorsport International (Nismo), the 2016 model refines the raw formula of its predecessors, delivering an engaging, old-school sports car experience that is hard to find in modern showrooms.

Aggressive Aesthetics: Form Meets Functional Aerodynamics

One look at the 2016 Nissan 370Z Nismo is all it takes to realize this is no ordinary coupe. Nissan's designers gave the Nismo variant a dramatic makeover inspired by the flagship GT-R. The front fascia features an aggressive bumper with integrated hyper-LED daytime running lights, a deep front splitter, and black-bezel headlights that give the car a menacing, focused glare.

Crucially, these design elements are not just for show; they are fully functional aerodynamic upgrades designed to increase downforce at high speeds. Signature Nismo red striping accents the lower body panels, wrapping around the side skirts to the redesigned rear bumper. At the back, a downsized but highly efficient rear spoiler replaces the massive wing of earlier Nismo models, working in tandem with a functional rear diffuser and massive dual exhaust tips to optimize airflow. Completing the athletic stance are a set of stunning 19-inch super-lightweight forged alloy wheels by Rays, wrapped in high-performance Bridgestone Potenza S001 tires.

A Driver-Focused Cockpit with Racing Pedigree

Step inside the cabin, and the motorsport theme continues. The highlight of the 2016 370Z Nismo's interior is undoubtedly the pair of co-branded Recaro sport seats. Upholstered in black leather with red Alcantara inserts, these seats offer exceptional lateral support, keeping both driver and passenger firmly in place during spirited cornering while remaining surprisingly comfortable for longer highway cruises.

The driver grips an Alcantara-and-leather-wrapped steering wheel complete with a red center-stripe marker at the 12 o'clock position. Directly ahead sits a signature three-pod instrument cluster, dominated by a large, center-mounted red Nismo tachometer. While the cabin layout is highly functional and driver-centric, it does show its age in terms of technology. The infotainment system, even with the Tech package's 7.0-inch touchscreen and navigation, feels dated compared to contemporary rivals. However, for the target audience of this track-focused machine, the purr of the engine easily replaces any need for cutting-edge digital displays.

The Heart of the Beast: Naturally Aspirated V6 Power

Under the long, sculpted aluminum hood lies the heart of the 2016 Nissan 370Z Nismo: a specially tuned version of Nissan’s venerable 3.7-liter VQ37VHR V6 engine. Thanks to an optimized Engine Control Module (ECM) calibration and an exclusive H-configured exhaust system design, the Nismo version pumps out 350 horsepower at 7,400 RPM and 276 lb-ft of torque at 5,200 RPM. This is an increase of 18 horsepower and 6 lb-ft of torque over the standard 370Z.

Power is sent exclusively to the rear wheels. Buyers can choose between a crisp, short-throw 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed automatic with paddle shifters. The manual gearbox features Nissan's acclaimed SynchroRev Match system—the world’s first synchronized downshift rev-matching technology. When engaged, it automatically blips the throttle during downshifts, mimicking perfect heel-and-toe footwork and ensuring incredibly smooth transitions into corners.

Track-Tuned Dynamics and Handling

The true magic of the Nismo badge lies in how it handles. The 2016 model features a heavily revised, Nismo-tuned four-wheel independent suspension. It utilizes stiffer springs, specialized shock absorbers, and larger stabilizer bars to minimize body roll and maximize mechanical grip. Additional structural reinforcements, including a front strut tower brace and underbody dampeners, enhance overall chassis rigidity.

On twisty mountain passes or a closed race circuit, the 370Z Nismo comes alive. The hydraulic steering system—a rare gem in today's era of electric steering—delivers rich, unfiltered feedback, allowing the driver to feel exactly what the front tires are doing. Braking performance is equally impressive, courtesy of Nissan Sport Brakes featuring large 14-inch front and 13.8-inch rear rotors clamped by 4-piston front and 2-piston rear aluminum calipers. A standard Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD) ensures that power is distributed effectively to the pavement, allowing for confident, throttle-steered exits from tight corners.

Verdict: A Modern Classic

The 2016 Nissan 370Z Nismo is not a car built for everyone. It is loud, the ride is firm, and its cabin lacks the modern luxury amenities found in many contemporary sports coupes. However, these characteristics are precisely what make it so appealing to automotive enthusiasts. It represents a bygone era of sports cars—one defined by a high-revving, naturally aspirated engine, hydraulic steering, and a highly mechanical connection between driver and machine. For those seeking raw, unfiltered performance with a pedigree of reliability, the 2016 370Z Nismo remains an iconic choice that continues to command respect on both the street and the track.