2003 New York Auto Show: Nissan 350Z Roadster

Less than a year after the launch of the 350Z comes the Z Roadster. On sale this summer, the Roadster uses the same running gear as the award-winning coupe (our 2003 Automobile of the Year), including its 287-horsepower six. The Roadster features a power soft top with a glass rear window, a hard boot, and a wind deflector that slots in between the roll hoops behind the front seats. The Roadster will be offered in only two of the hardtop's five trim levels: Enthusiast and Touring. Both can be had with a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic. The fancier Touring adds a six-disc CD changer, leather trim, and heated seats; as an option it offers ventilated seats with mesh inserts. Official pricing has not been announced, but the less-expensive Enthusiast model is expected to start at about $34,000.