NISSAN 350 Z (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 683 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
81%
Total Tests (2024)
683
Avg Mileage
98,315 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2003 NISSAN 350 Z reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 21 years old, 81% of NISSAN 350 Zs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 683 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 98,315 miles.
How does the 2003 NISSAN 350 Z compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 NISSAN 350 Z has 98,315 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a NISSAN 350 Z?
The most reliable year is the 2012 model with a 96% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 78%. The 2003 sits between the two at 81%.
How much does a 2003 NISSAN 350 Z cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
NISSAN 350 Z by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 95% | 37 | 31,840 mi |
| 2019 | 95% | 60 | 28,568 mi |
| 2018 | 90% | 166 | 29,472 mi |
| 2017 | 90% | 168 | 32,025 mi |
| 2016 | 88% | 278 | 41,549 mi |
| 2015 | 93% | 212 | 44,100 mi |
| 2014 | 90% | 144 | 42,336 mi |
| 2013 | 92% | 135 | 53,849 mi |
| 2012 | 96% | 50 | 60,352 mi |
| 2011 | 87% | 30 | 69,162 mi |
| 2010 | 82% | 38 | 77,199 mi |
| 2009 | 88% | 380 | 74,747 mi |
| 2008 | 80% | 760 | 83,449 mi |
| 2007 | 83% | 1,305 | 86,152 mi |
| 2006 | 79% | 1,653 | 88,278 mi |
| 2005 | 82% | 2,401 | 87,497 mi |
| 2004 | 78% | 2,083 | 98,243 mi |
| 2003 | 81% | 683 | 98,315 mi |
| 2002 | 92% | 39 | 100,075 mi |
Checking a specific NISSAN 350 Z?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 NISSAN 350 Z
The 2003 NISSAN 350 Z is a performance with a 3498cc petrol engine. 683 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 21% of all 2003 cars for reliability.
With an average of 98,315 miles at 21 years old, NISSAN 350 Z owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 NISSAN 350 Z Fuel Costs
The 3498cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2003 NISSAN 350 Z?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 81% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
NISSAN 350 Z Reliability Trend
Newer NISSAN 350 Zs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 10 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 NISSAN 350 Z
At 21 years old, the NISSAN 350 Z is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2012 model has the highest pass rate at 96%.
Alternatives to the 2003 NISSAN 350 Z
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2001) 77% pass rate (-4%) from 9,406 tests
- MERCEDES E (2004) 78% pass rate (-3%) from 8,333 tests
- PORSCHE BOXSTER (2005) 86% pass rate (+5%) from 6,992 tests
- PORSCHE 911 (2005) 90% pass rate (+9%) from 5,986 tests