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This is the Nissan Project Clubsport 23: proof that the Japanese brand hasn’t forgotten about its old-school coupe as it closes in on its 10th birthday.
• Take a look at the best cars from SEMA 2017
Set to make its public debut at the SEMA tuning show in Las Vegas from 30 October, the Clubsport 23 packs wide-ranging of tuning parts – many of which, Nissan says, will soon be offered to 370Z owners through its dealer network.
The work is a collaboration between Nissan Motorsport and aftermarket parts suppliers like Sparco, Rays and Hankook. The donor 370Z Nismo gains tweaks to its suspension, braking and styling – all the sort of upgrades that existing owners could fit themselves.
However, the most significant upgrade might be a step too far the regular home mechanic: the original 3.7-litre V6 has been ditched in favour of a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6. The VR30DDTT engine is borrowed from the Infiniti Q50 and Q60, and produces 400bhp – 50bhp up on the unit it replaces.
A custom cold intake kit, blow off valves, and a custom exhaust system – the latter of which features twin 76mm pipes which exit in the rear bumper to either side of the number plate – help to accommodate the engine within the 370Z’s body. The cooling systems also received attention: a performance radiator, power steering cooler, intercooler and silicone hoses all replace the standard items.
Like the standard car, power is sent to the rear wheels through a 6 speed manual gearbox. Matching the original ’box to the new engine wasn’t completely straightforward, because until now, the VR30 has only ever been offered with automatic transmissions. As a result, a unique clutch system, flywheel and casing had to be created.
A variety of wheel, tyre and chassis upgrades keep the extra power in check. A three-piece Nismo body bracing kit stiffens the chassis, while KW adjustable coilovers and Eibach rear springs replace the standard parts.
Lightweight 18-inch Rays wheels are wrapped in Hankook RS4 tyres, and house grooved brake discs with Nismo street and track pads and stainless steel brake lines. Nissan says that the wheels and brake pads will be available to buy in the Nismo catalogues shortly.
Inside, the Project Clubsport 23 is fitted with Sparco QRT-R race seats, while six-point harnesses and steering wheel are also supplied by the Italian brand. The dash, door cards and centre armrest are trimmed in quilted upholstery with red stitching. Safety enhancements come in the form of a custom roll cage and fire extinguishers in both the cabin and engine bay.
The standard Nismo body gains some choice upgrades on the outside, too. Up front, there’s a carbon bonnet held in place by pins, while the splitter is constructed from the same material. The air dam is new, while carbon also trims the door mirror covers and A-pillar trim. The changes are rounded off by the burnt orange colour – a vinyl wrap.
The Project Clubsport 23 is one of four official Nissans on display from at SEMA. Two versions of the Titan pickup are designed to aid in disaster relief scenarios: the Ultimate Service Titan is equipped with a mobile command centre, first aid supplies and a bed, while the Paws One Titan is designed to help care for animals.
The final concept is called the Kicks Sound Machine: a driving DJ booth featuring professional mixing equipment form Pioneer and speakers by Bose.
Don’t forget to stay tuned to Auto Express for all the latest from SEMA when it kicks off on 30 October…
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