Recently spied cruising the streets of Southern California was an apparently full production version of the 2009 Nissan 370Z. Set to debut next week at the LA Auto Show, this bright red example of the 370Z was parked innocuously at a local parking structure. We managed to grab these images mere moments before the driver was able to get in and take off out of view.
The new 370Z is visually smaller than the 350Z with a design that evokes the 240Z with its rear sloping design. The all-new sheet metal features bulging, sculpted rear fenders and the same headlight treatment as on the new Maxima. We couldn't confirm any under hood engine secrets but the car was sporting four-piston front and two-piston rear fixed calipers which wore the Nissan name instead of the Brembo logo, as was the case on past 350Z Track models. The 19-inch wheels were covered in 245mm front and 275mm rear Bridgestone RE050A tires. This difference in overall rubber has us assuming that the 370Z features a completely redesigned suspension system versus the 350Z.
The 350Z's signature rear tower brace has been deleted and we spied an aluminum bar structure, closer to the seats and ahead of the rear towers, that we can only assume carries out the same function. We didn't grab an image of the rear design before the car left. We did catch a glimpse of the redesigned interior, which has a new steering wheel, gauge cluster, and center console design. The 370Z does carry over the triple center gauge cluster like the 350Z.
The 370Z is set to be unveiled next week in Los Angeles and then we will finally be able to dig up further details on the new engine setup and any suspension changes. Until then, enjoy and feel free to speculate.