Initially, there were mutterings around the Autocar office that the Z wasn't that quick. But once we reached the test track, however, there was no argument. A 0-60mph time of 5.8sec is too hot for anything in this class. A 225bhp TT requires 6.1sec, an RX-8 7.1sec. Charging on to 100mph in 14.2sec makes it not only substantially quicker than its coupé rivals but pegs it level with a Boxster S. Through the gears from 30-70mph the Porsche is slower by a tenth and outpaced on most in-gear comparisons too. The classic flexibility test, 50-70mph in top gear, is dispatched in a TT humbling 8.2sec.
Those Brembo brakes are more than just hub jewelery, too. A 60-0 time of 2.5sec is impressive and the pedal has a reassuringly weighty pregression that lets you lean on it with confidence.
Drive 100 yards in a 350Z and its character is immediately apparent. At 2.7 turns lock to lock, the steering is quick with very little dead zone around the straight ahead and a well-judged weight to it. The Z feels alert, with a darty feel to the helm that makes it easy to place on the road.
The work that's gone into making the shell stiff is obvious. The structure feels very solid, but the ride is by no means intolerable, filtering out low-speed cabin intrusions around town to an acceptable level. It's easily better than the wooden ride that blights the TT, especially in V6 guise, although an RX-8 is a more relaxing companion. This tough, nuggety feel transpires into good body control at speed.
The 245-section Bridgestones have decent grip, certainly in the dry, but that solid wad of torque can unstick them easily given a chance. Once sliding, the quick, accurate steering is a real boon and the chassis, thankfully, remains progressive in communicating its intentions. You'll need a generous bootful of throttle to keep the slide going as the rear tyres quickly start to find grip again.