2010 370Z Positioned as 911 Fighter

Last year, Nissan first took on high performance exotic cars considered almost untouchable with its surprisingly fast and technology packed GT-R, and now, according to a report by Automotive News, the Japanese automaker is looking once again to give makers of serious sports cars -- namely Porsche -- a run for their money with its upcoming all-new 2010 370Z coupe. Although no details have been officially disclosed, rumor has it, that in order for Nissan to accomplish such a goal, its engineers have shed its 350Z predecessor's (shown below) weight and length. Our latest intel indicates four inches will be cut from car's wheelbase, effectively dropping overall length by five inches. The downsizing of the car works perfectly with the brand's mission to reduce weight throughout its lineup in order to increase fuel efficiency and performance. Of course, helping it compete with higher segmented sports cars is Nissan's latest VQ37VHR engine used by the current Infiniti G37 that will likely make at least 330 horsepower. Expected transmissions include a close-ratio six-speed manual and all-new seven-speed automatic. With a decrease in size and a bump in power, the upcoming 370Z could prove to be the best Z yet, from a performance standpoint. "When we launched the current Z in 2002, it was a symbol of Nissan's revival, a kind of brand symbol, plus driving performance," Nissan Japan marketing manager Tetsuo Shimada said. "This time with the 370Z, we are focusing more on the driving performance, as a pure driving sports car." Shimada named the Porsche Cayman and Audi TT as the upcoming car's chief rivals when it hits Japanese dealerships this December. Nissan assures us that interested North American buyers will only have to wait a short time after its domestic market introduction. When exactly that means, Shimada did not elaborate. Nissan will debut its 2010 370Z at next month's L.A. Auto Show.