When I saw this 240Z at the side of the road, I just couldn’t help myself: I had to get a shot of the cars together. Imagine, 40 years separates these two classics shapes yet there is no mistaking that they are related. Wonderful.

Regular readers might have noticed that I don’t often comment on style. I just feel too graphically challenged to express my emotions about style in a manner that properly conveys the awesomeness of a great shape. Or the ug factor of a nasty shape for that matter. With the 370Z I just have to make an attempt.

When the 350Z came out, I was the service manager at a Nissan dealership. I thought the designers had done a great job. They had returned to the classic long nose shape of the Z car, yet made it fresh and modern. The only problem was that there was nothing that just jumped out and grabbed me. I didn’t feel an emotional attachment to the car. Until I drove it. Then of course, it became one of my all time faves. They did it right, it just took a great driving experience to make me see it.

The 370Z is another animal altogether. From the first time I saw the shape in the flesh at the Toronto Autoshow this year, I fell in love with it. From that day, I didn’t see another 370Z until I picked this black beauty up earlier this week. I know they are out there, but I haven’t seen one. The shape is so sensual that it is almost impossible not to fall in love with it instantly. From the muscular fenders and rear haunches to the actually practical roof humps, the 370Z looks like a shark that is about to attack. That is no coincidence. Canadian designer, Randy Rodriguez found his inspiration while watching Shark Week on Discovery! If I can just figure out how to get it off my voice recorder, I have a nice little interview with Randy to share.

I can’t recall another car that has drawn so much attention as the 370Z. Every day, neighbors have dropped by our driveway to get a closer look. Drivers of any sporty car on the road are pretty much guaranteed to have a peek while those in older model Z cars just about drive off the road while trying to get a better look. While sitting at a light, 15 year old Shelby exclaimed: “OMG – they are such losers! Everyone is looking at us!” Of course that may have been triggered by the car load of teenage dorks who had their faces slammed against the window as they gaped.

As for myself, I continually find myself in the driveway staring at the car. I can’t find an angle I don’t like. Every single view just makes me feel all warm inside. This machine is almost as fun to look at as it is to drive. Almost!