Best Car Reviews - 2019 Nissan 370Z Roadster

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Introduction

The 2019 Nissan 370Z Roadster is a two-seat, rear-wheel-drive convertible for drivers who want a traditional sports-car experience: a naturally aspirated V6, compact proportions, a power soft top, and direct controls. It was the final model year for the 370Z Roadster in the United States, making it especially appealing to buyers who value open-air driving and Nissan Z heritage over the newest digital features.

Design and Exterior Features

The 370Z Roadster has a low, short-wheelbase stance, a long hood, pronounced rear haunches, and a fabric power convertible roof. At approximately 167.2 inches long, 72.6 inches wide, and 52.2 inches tall, it is compact by modern sports-car standards. The 2019 model was largely a carryover rather than a redesign, although an auto-dimming rear-view mirror with RearView Monitor became standard. Its styling remains purposeful and muscular, with a wide grille, swept-back lamps, and a short rear deck.

Power-operated fabric convertible top for open-air motoring.
Standard 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.
Available 19-inch RAYS forged-alloy wheels on Sport Touring models.
Available Nissan Sport Brakes and a rear spoiler on Sport Touring versions.
Standard auto-dimming rear-view mirror with RearView Monitor.

Interior and Comfort

The cabin is focused tightly around the driver, with three auxiliary gauges atop the dashboard and a low, sporty seating position. The standard Roadster uses cloth upholstery and manually adjustable seats, while Touring and Sport Touring models add leather-appointed, heated and cooled ventilated seats. Material quality is respectable for its age but not as polished as newer premium roadsters, and the small cabin and limited 4.2-cubic-foot trunk prioritize driving enjoyment over practicality.

Two-seat cockpit with driver-oriented controls.
Leather-wrapped steering wheel and automatic climate control.
Available heated and cooled leather-appointed seats.
Push-button ignition and Nissan Intelligent Key.
Very limited cargo capacity with the roof mechanism in place.

Performance and Handling

Every 2019 370Z Roadster uses a 3.7-liter DOHC V6 with six cylinders, 332 horsepower at 7,000 rpm, and 270 lb-ft of torque at 5,200 rpm. Power reaches the rear wheels through a seven-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode, paddle shifters, Downshift Rev Matching, and Adaptive Shift Control. Nissan did not publish a separate Roadster 0-60 mph figure, but period instrumented tests of 370Z models commonly recorded sub-five-second 0-60 mph runs. The Roadster combines double-wishbone front suspension with a multi-link rear setup, delivering eager turn-in and strong highway stability, though its ride can feel firm over broken city pavement. EPA estimates for the automatic Roadster are 18 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined, equivalent to approximately 13.1, 9.4, and 11.2 L/100 km.

3.7-liter naturally aspirated V6 with 332 horsepower.
Rear-wheel drive and seven-speed automatic transmission.
Paddle shifters and Downshift Rev Matching.
Sport Touring adds a viscous limited-slip differential.
EPA combined economy of 21 mpg, or about 11.2 L/100 km.

Technology and Connectivity

The 370Z Roadster offers useful but dated technology. Base versions include Bluetooth hands-free calling, a USB input, and a six-speaker audio system. Touring and Sport Touring models add a 7.0-inch navigation display, Bose eight-speaker audio, Bluetooth streaming audio, NavTraffic, and NavWeather services where subscriptions remain available. It lacks the smartphone integration and extensive active-driver-assistance equipment expected in newer sports cars.

Bluetooth hands-free phone system and USB input.
Standard six-speaker audio system.
Available 7.0-inch navigation system with voice recognition.
Available Bose eight-speaker audio system.
No factory Apple CarPlay or Android Auto integration.

Safety Features

Standard safety equipment includes Vehicle Dynamic Control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, tire-pressure monitoring, active head restraints, and Nissan’s Advanced Air Bag System. The Roadster also has front, seat-mounted side-impact, and door-mounted curtain airbags, plus seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters. No current IIHS crash-test rating or NHTSA overall crash-test rating for the 2019 370Z Roadster should be assumed without checking the vehicle identification number and market-specific records.

Vehicle Dynamic Control and traction control.
Anti-lock braking system and tire-pressure monitoring system.
Dual-stage front airbags with occupant classification.
Seat-mounted side-impact and door-mounted curtain airbags.
RearView Monitor included with the standard auto-dimming mirror.

Pricing and Variants

When new, the 2019 370Z Roadster started at $41,820 USD before destination charges. The range consisted of the 370Z Roadster, Roadster Touring, and Roadster Sport Touring, all with the seven-speed automatic transmission. The Touring model emphasized comfort and audio upgrades, while the Sport Touring added stronger brakes, 19-inch forged wheels, and a viscous limited-slip differential. It was competitively priced against premium roadsters such as the BMW Z4 and Porsche 718 Boxster, while the Mazda MX-5 Miata offered a lighter, less expensive alternative with newer-feeling technology.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Strong, responsive naturally aspirated V6 engine.
Traditional rear-wheel-drive sports-car balance.
Characterful exhaust note and high-revving personality.
Power convertible top adds genuine open-air appeal.
Sport Touring equipment improves braking and corner-exit traction.

Cons

Fuel economy is modest for a compact two-seater.
Interior technology feels dated beside newer rivals.
Cabin storage and trunk space are very limited.
Firm ride and road noise can reduce daily-driving comfort.
No modern suite of active safety aids.

Maintenance and Common Issues

RepairPal estimates average annual repair and maintenance costs for the Nissan 370Z at about $504 USD, though age, tires, brake wear, convertible-top service, location, and driving style can make Roadster ownership cost substantially more. Owner reports for the 370Z generation most often make these inspection points worth checking: power-top operation and roof alignment; trunk or hatch release and strut operation; navigation-system software or display faults on equipped cars; rear axle clicking caused by hardware or driveline play; and worn suspension, cooling, or rubber components on older, low-mileage weekend cars. A pre-purchase inspection should confirm roof operation, water sealing, service history, tires, brakes, and automatic-transmission behavior.

Rating

Overall rating: 7.0/10. Design: 8.0/10; comfort: 6.5/10; performance: 8.5/10; technology: 5.5/10; safety: 6.0/10. The Roadster scores highly for mechanical character and styling but loses ground to newer rivals in cabin refinement, connectivity, efficiency, and driver-assistance technology.

User Reviews and Feedback

Owner feedback commonly centers on the 370Z Roadster’s memorable V6, compact feel, and open-top character. Enthusiasts tend to see it as a rewarding weekend car, while buyers seeking everyday practicality often find its compromises more noticeable.

Owners frequently praise the V6 sound, throttle response, and strong acceleration.
Many enjoy the Roadster’s simple, analog sports-car personality.
Sport Touring equipment is valued for its brakes, wheels, and limited-slip differential.
Common criticisms include dated infotainment and limited storage.
Careful inspection of the power roof is a recurring recommendation for used-car buyers.

Best Cars in This Category

2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata
2019 BMW Z4
2019 Porsche 718 Boxster
2019 Audi TT Roadster
2019 Jaguar F-Type Convertible

Summary

The 2019 Nissan 370Z Roadster is best suited to buyers who want a compact, old-school convertible sports car with a naturally aspirated V6 and rear-wheel-drive character. It is not the most advanced or practical option in its class, but its strong engine, distinctive design, and final-year Roadster status give it lasting appeal. A well-maintained example with a fully functioning roof can be a compelling choice for weekend drives and enthusiasts who value feel over features.