Take it or leave it: April 22 occasion picks Car News

You don’t need to break the bank for a satisfying dose of speed these days.

For proof, look no further than the Nissan 350Z – one of the Japanese firm’s most enticing junior performance packages that, even in its heyday, had an accessible price and bags of appeal.

Powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6, the first 350Z offered 276 hp. It was initially available as a coupé and all cars were rear-wheel drive with a six-speed manual gearbox.

Power was increased in 2005 to 296 horsepower and a roadster was added to the lineup. Straight-line speed was snappy enough to grab your attention: with 296bhp, the model sprinted from 0-62mph in 5.8s in the coupe and 6.2s in the roadster.

If that’s not enough, look for the HR model (for “high response”). Produced from 2007, it received a complete engine overhaul which increased power to 308 hp.

The revised car also received a new front bumper, bi-xenon headlights and updated LED taillights. And inside, the 350Z featured a new sat nav system as well as larger door bins.

We thought the drivetrain was much smoother than the stock car, and road noise was reduced. In fact, we’d definitely pick a later example, funds permitting, due to its vastly improved refinement and impressive engine reliability over those at launch.

We were tempted by a 2009 example which costs just £8495. Although it has done 115,000 miles, it is a one-owner car with no aftermarket additions, full Nissan service history, three-month warranty and 12 months of AA coverage.

It’s also in the GT spec, which adds features like power seats, leather upholstery and cruise control.

With any 350Z, it’s wise to check the suspension bushings, as those on the lower control arms tend to fail at 75,000 miles. Ensure the power steering is in good condition, as well as the clutch, which may need to be replaced after around 45,000 miles at a cost of around £600.