Nissan 350z. Return of the Z cars, a series of awesome race blooded driver with gear-head maniac tuned cars that have been ravaging the roads since Datsun was around. This two door two seater with it's front engine rear wheel drive setup will make you giggle like a little school girl. I know I have. Sport tuned suspension has a tendency to under-steer as all stock cars usually do, but with 287 Horsepower at the rear wheels and a close-gear six speed, who would want to temp Fate into a miscalculated spinout? Coupled with standard Brembo (an aftermarket company known for great braking products) brake calipers, this Z car lives up to its older brother's reputation.

Of course, to praise the 350z is to praise almost every car that Nissan/Infiniti makes. The Altima, Maxima, and G35 all share the same engine, with minor differences that ultimately can be made the same. The only trait that seems to define the Z car is it's incredible maneuverability through twisting turning roads. On the outside, it's appearance is distinguishable--there is no mistakening it for another car. On the inside, it lacks almost any luxury, since it was built soley for enthusiasts.

For the tuners though, like always, there are options. I hesitate to say that these options will be better then investing in a 350z, since the aftermarket is already starting to spark high interest (Greddy has already made twin-turbos for the 350z), but there are options. For those who wish to stay within the Nissan family, the older 300zx with it's twin turbo v6 pushing 280 horsepower and capability of passing the 500 hp mark with some mechanically inclined modifications should fill your need for speed nicely.

Keep an eye out for the 350z during the next few years though. I'm confident that it will leave it's mark on the performance world, one way or another.