2020 Nissan 370Z Coupe 50th Anniversary Edition Test Drive

First introduced in America as the 1970 Datsun 240Z, Nissan’s legendary Z car is celebrating five decades of revolutionizing the sports car market with bold styling, class-leading performance, and unmatched value.

And to mark this special occasion, the 2020 Nissan 370Z is being offered in a 50th Anniversary Edition trim, which features two model-specific color themes, unique graphics, and special badging. This limited edition variant is sure to be a collectible, and is only available as an add-on to the Coupe Sport model.

Let’s take a closer look at the culmination of 50 years of pursuing sports car perfection with the help of our 2020 Nissan 370Z Coupe 50th Anniversary Edition test model.

2020 Nissan 370Z Coupe Sport 50th Anniversary Edition Exterior

If being eye-catching is a must-have characteristic for your next vehicle, the 50th Anniversary Edition 370Z more than satisfies that requirement. Paying homage to the famous racing livery worn by Brock Racing Enterprises (BRE) vehicles of the late ’60s and early ’70s, this very special version of the 370Z coupe features a two-tone exterior paint theme – available in white/red or silver/black – along with bold door stripes and 50th Anniversary decals.

In its base form, it was already difficult for people to resist the seductive and aerodynamic shape of the 370Z. But the exciting, racing-inspired details of the 50th Anniversary Edition made it so many passersby felt the urge to stop and compliment the car’s appearance.

Regarding overall shape, the 2020 370Z remains largely unmodified from previous years – its dynamic roofline and lowered appearance still give it a feeling of always being in motion, while wide, flared fenders offer an intense ready-for-anything stance. Lightweight aluminum makes its return in the door panels, hood, and rear hatch, which helps to reduce overall mass as well as bring down the 370Z’s center of gravity.

As part of the 50th Anniversary Edition, the 370Z Sport trim’s standard front chin and rear spoiler have been removed for a cleaner, more stylish look, while the 19-inch RAYS lightweight forged alloy wheels receive a red accent to complement the special anniversary badging and graphics.

In the end, these tasteful enhancements help tell the story of Nissan’s rich motorsports heritage through a classically proportioned, modern sports car.

2020 Nissan 370Z Coupe Sport 50th Anniversary Edition Interior

Just like the exterior, the 2020 370Z’s driver-focused cockpit receives numerous upgrades to signify the rarity and collectibility of this special edition model.

Open either door and you’re greeted with 50th Anniversary logo kick plates and carpeted floor mats. Those with keen eyes will also notice the anniversary graphic hidden in the perforated leather sport seats, which also feature red contrast stitching and red leather accents that continue throughout the cabin.

One of our favorite 50th Anniversary enhancements is the Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel with a red center mark – a sporty touch that takes inspiration from Nissan’s NISMO version of the car. Other anniversary edition details can be found dotted on various surfaces, like on the tachometer and just above the gear shifter.

As a true driver’s car, the passenger area is free of large and distracting screens, but still offers the basics of infotainment via an 8-speaker BOSE audio system that also features active noise cancellation and active sound enhancement. Intuitive buttons on the center console and steering wheel offer easy access to an AM/FM radio, Bluetooth phone connectivity, and voice-activated commands.

The two-seater cabin might look small, but it actually feels very roomy and secure thanks to Nissan’s thoughtful use of space. You can easily reach back to the trunk area, and there’s a sizable shelf behind each seat, perfect for storing a purse, jacket or other small personal items. There are a total of three cupholders, and the center console offers multiple enclosed cubby spaces to keep smartphones and important items out of view.

And in our opinion, the best interior feature isn’t necessarily a single element, but it’s how everything comes together to deliver an exciting and rewarding experience – the 370Z feels like a natural extension of the driver. The sport seats hold everyone securely and supportively, while all of the instrument dials are angled specifically for the driver. Every input element – steering wheel, shifter, and pedals – are positioned within perfect reach to allow for a comfortable seating position.

It’s a simple yet purposeful layout that delivers an unfiltered and thrilling sports car experience.

2020 Nissan 370Z Coupe Sport 50th Anniversary Edition Performance

Under the contoured hood of every 50th Anniversary Edition 370Z is a 3.7-liter V6 engine that produces 332 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. This tried-and-true motor pushes you into the seat as it roars to a 7,500-rpm redline, utilizing its Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL) to deliver an extremely usable and predictable power band.

Our test model came equipped with a 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission, which features an EXEDY clutch (a popular aftermarket performance upgrade) as well as SynchroRev Match. This selectable rev-match mode automatically executes throttle blips during downshifts for silky smooth clutch engagement, essentially making the advanced heel-toe racing technique available to everyone. This, plus the effortless operation of the clutch pedal makes accelerations and braking almost as easy as if our test model had an automatic transmission.

Of course, the 2020 370Z doesn’t just excel at straight-line speed, but also at carving sharp corners and twisting roads. The high levels of grip always impress us year after year because the sport-tuned suspension and stabilization system continue to receive refinements that enhance comfort and feedback without compromising performance. During our daily commute, the ride quality is compliant and steering is easy. As things get more spirited, the speed-sensitive power steering delivers a balance of feedback and weight, while the lightweight suspension architecture and “high response” shock absorbers place maximum traction onto the pavement.

With the 370Z taking care of on-road dynamics through advanced engineering and design, the driver is free to concentrate on steering, throttle input, and enjoying the overall experience of being in a nimble sports car.

Additional standard performance features include a viscous limited-slip differential, front & rear stabilizer bars, Nissan sport brakes, and staggered-width high-performance tires.

Fuel economy for the 2020 Nissan 370Z Coupe Sport 50th Anniversary Edition is an EPA estimated 17 mpg city and 26 mpg highway**.

2020 Nissan 370Z Coupe Sport 50th Anniversary Edition Safety

For the 2020 model year, the 370Z Coupe Sport comes with a suite of standard passenger safety features, including advanced airbags, active head restraints, seat belt pretensioners & load limiters, and an energy absorbing steering column.

To help keep the vehicle on its intended path, a variety of active systems intervene when necessary, like anti-lock brakes, vehicle dynamic control, and traction control system.

Every 370Z Coupe also comes standard with a RearView Monitor (back-up camera) built into the auto-dimming rearview mirror.

2020 Nissan 370Z Coupe Sport 50th Anniversary Edition Overall

After five decades, Nissan’s Z car is still one of the most value-packed offerings that satisfies both demanding performance and usability requirements. Its unique combination of luxury-inspired amenities plus impressive athleticism makes the 2020 370Z a versatile sports car for every kind of lifestyle.

Starting MSRP for the 2020 Nissan 370Z Coupe Sport is $33,820, and the 50th Anniversary Edition package brings the overall price to $37,605*.

Help pay homage to 50 years of Z heritage by visiting your local AutoNation Nissan dealership .

*MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.
**Based on 2020 EPA mileage ratings. Your mileage will vary depending specific vehicle trim, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, and other factors.