On the Block: The First 350Z

Nissan North America is auctioning the first production model of the new 350Z, vehicle identification number 000001, on Ebaymotors.com to raise funds for the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (and, we mightily suspect, to garner publicity like this for the new Z).

The Gardena-based car company put a base value of $37,000 on the inaugural Z when the auction opened last week, and by mid-day Tuesday, bidding had soared to $62,100.

The auction closes Thursday, and Highway 1 will let you know next week how much someone was willing to pay for Z No. 1.

Hybrid Cars

Last week’s comparison of the Toyota Prius and Honda Civic hybrids omitted a key measurement for the Prius’ electric motor. Its torque--the power to turn the drive shaft and move the vehicle’s mass, critical for acceleration, climbing hills or towing--is 258 foot pounds.

As reported, the Toyota’s gasoline engine produces 82 foot pounds of torque.

Unlike Honda, Toyota does not provide a figure for overall torque when the two motors are working in tandem.

The Civic Hybrid vehicle offers combined torque of 116 foot pounds.