Nissan ZX For Sale

Nissan 300ZX From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search Nissan 300ZX Manufacturer Nissan Also called Nissan Fairlady Z Production 1983–2000 (1984–1996 in U.S) Assembly Hiratsuka, Kanagawa, Japan Predecessor Nissan 280ZX Successor Nissan 350Z Class Sports car/ Grand Tourer Layout FR layout Transmission(s) 5-speed manual 4-speed automatic The Nissan 300ZX (called the Fairlady Z in Japan) is a sports car that was produced by Nissan. It comprises the third and fourth generations of the Z-car line-up, respectively given the chassis designations Z31 and Z32.[1] The 300ZX name followed the numerical convention initiated with the 240Z, put forth by Yutaka Katayama, the one time president of Nissan Motors USA. The "X" was added to the model name by its predecessor signifying "luxury". The name was used in most markets with the exception of a few including the Japanese home market, there the car like all previous Z cars was sold as a "Fairlady Z". The best selling 300ZX's were the Z31s, with over 100,000 more sales than the Z32. The Z31 and Z32 feature a 3.0 litre, V6 naturally-aspirated and single (Z31) or twin (Z32) turbocharged engine. Although both motors are from the same VG series and have the same displacement, the power output of the Z32's VG30DE and VG30DETT engine is greater than the Z31. The VG30DE engine also has a double overhead cam and variable valve timing while the older VG30E is a single overhead cam design. The naturally-aspirated Z32 has 222 hp (166 kW) and 198 lb·ft (268 N·m) of torque versus the Z31 with 160-165 hp and 174 lb·ft (236 N·m) of torque. Similarly, the twin-turbo Z32s have 300 hp (220 kW) and 283 lb·ft (384 N·m) torque versus the single turbo Z31, which has 200-205 hp and 227 lb·ft (308 N·m) of torque. The Z32's twin turbo motor is also intercooled unlike the Z31 turbo. The Z31's single overhead cam engine has 13 head bolts per head, for a total of 26, where as the Z32's dual overhead cam engine only has 8 head bolts per head, for a total of 16. The Z31 chassis was designed after the previous Z-car, the Nissan 280ZX, and had two special editions based on it. The 50th Anniversary Edition focused on luxury to celebrate the company's semi-centennial in 1984, while the Shiro Special, released 4 years later, boasted performance-oriented upgrades.[2][3] Styling would be completely redesigned with the release of the Z32, tending towards a wider footprint and more rounded curves with an overall result that the Z32 turned in a drag coefficient of .31 compared to the early Z31's .30. The newer chassis also featured hydraulic rear wheel steering called Super HICAS (in 1994 changed to an electric actuator), in its top-of-the-line models. Although it was not a special edition, in 1996 Nissan designated the final 300 American units the Commemorative Edition. Production of the Z32 ceased outside of the home market and continued in Japan until August 2000.[4] True to its heritage, the race-only 300ZX cars had several notable victories, including the 1986 Trans Am series and the 1994 24 Hours of Daytona. However, auto sports politics and a controversial GTS-1 class win at the 24 Hours of LeMans that same year[5] prompted the International Motor Sports Association to declare the twin turbo engine illegal for future competition.[6] The 300ZX also holds the E/BMS land speed record of 419.84 km/h (260.87 mph) from the 1991 Bonneville Speed Trial.[7] Throughout its life, the 300ZX has been praised by critics. Car and Driver placed the car on its Ten Best list for 7 consecutive years and Motor Trend awarded it as the 1990 Import Car of the Year.[citation needed] The 300ZX was replaced by the Nissan 350Z(Z33) in 2003. Contents 1 Z31 1.1 Japanese market 1.2 European models 1.3 Australian models 1.4 Chassis 1.5 Special Z31 releases 1.6 Style and evolution 2 Z32 2.1 Style and evolution 3 Motorsports 4 Awards and recognition 5 Safety 6 References 7 External links [edit] Z31 Z31 Also called Nissan Z31 Production 1983–1989 number produced: 329,900 (for export: 294,516) (for JDM: 35,384)[8] Predecessor Nissan 280ZX Body style(s) 2-door coupe 2+2 Engine(s) 2.0 L VG20ET V6 (200Z, 200ZG, 200ZS) 2.0 L RB20DET I6 (200ZR) 3.0 L VG30E V6 (300ZX) 3.0 L VG30ET V6(300ZX Turbo) 3.0 L VG30DE V6 (300ZR) Transmission(s) 5-Speed FS5W71C Manual Transmission 5-Speed FS5R90A Manual Transmission 5-Speed FS5R30A Manual Transmission 4-Speed E4N71B Automatic Transmission Wheelbase 2320 mm (91.3 in) (SWB) 2520 mm (99.2 in) (LWB) Length 4410 mm (173.7 in) (SWB) 4605 (181.3 in) (LWB) Width 1725 mm (67.9 in) Height 1260 mm (49.7 in) Curb weight 2,888–3,027 lb (1,310–1,373 kg) Designer Kazumasu Takagi[4] The Z31 chassis designation was first introduced in 1983 as a 1984 Datsun/Nissan 300ZX (the hatch lid had both a Datsun badge and a Nissan badge). This continued until 1985 when Nissan standardized their brand name worldwide and dropped the Datsun badge. Designed by Kazumasu Takagi and his team of developers, the 300ZX improved aerodynamics and increased power when compared to its predecessor, the 280ZX. The newer Z-car had a drag coefficient of 0.30 and was powered by Japan's first mass-produced V6 engine instead of an I6. According to Nissan, "the V6 engine was supposed to re-create the spirit of the original Fairlady Z.[4] From 1990 to 1996 there were only 10,000 made each year, winning one of the most reliable cars of all time. This new V6 (2960 cc) Single overhead cam engine was available as a naturally-aspirated VG30E or a turbocharged VG30ET producing 160 hp (119 kW) and 200 hp (150 kW) respectively. The engine was either a type A or type B sub-designation from 1984 to April 1987, while models from May 1987 to 1989 had a W sub-designation. The W-series engines featured redesigned water jackets for additional cooling, fully floating piston wrist pins, and more power—165 hp naturally-aspirated and 205 hp (153 kW) turbocharged. The 1984 to 1987 turbo models featured a Garrett T3 turbocharger with a 7.8:1 compression ratio, whereas 1988 to 1989 models featured a low inertia T25 turbocharger with an increased 8.3:1 compression ratio. Finally, these engines were equipped with self-adjusting hydraulic valve lifters. The transmissions were a 5-speed manual or an optional 4-speed automatic (E4N71B for turbo models, L4N71B for naturally-aspirated models). The automatic transmission on the turbo models did not have a lockup mechanism. All Z31's were equipped with a Nissan R200 rear differential, later year turbo models received an R200 limited-slip differential. There were three trim models available: SF, GL and GLL. The SF model was only available in Canada. Similar to Chrysler's Electronic Voice Alert, the 1984-1986 Z31 GL and GLL models featured a voice warning system. [edit] Japanese market The 200Z, 200ZG, and 200ZS used the VG20ET engine while the 200ZR came with the RB20DET. The 300ZX could come with either the VG30E or VG30ET. The only factory Z31 variant to use the VG30DE engine was the 300ZR.[9] [edit] European models The European models made 230 hp (170 kW) in turbo form due to a better camshaft profile, also known outside of Europe as the Nismo camshafts. Some models were also equipped without catalytic converters. All European turbocharged models received a different front lower spoiler as well, with 84-86 models being unique and 87-89 production having the same spoiler as the USDM 1988 "SS" model. [edit] Australian models All Australian model z31 300zx's were 2+2 targa top body. The cars sold in 1984 and '85 were all naturally aspirated with no catalytic converter, while the turbocharged version was the only model available from 1986 to 1988. There was only one trim level in Australia, with the digital dashboard and climate control being an optional upgrade package, and leather seats only available in the redesigned series 3 "Californian" models. The Australian model Z31's factory specified power output has not been confirmed to this date. The turbo models are rumoured to make the same 230 hp (170 kW) as the European model z31's, but the presence of the more aggressive camshafts has not been confirmed. The Australian factory service manual provides camshaft measurements which do not match any of the known USDM or EDM camshaft profiles, the FSM states the exhaust valve has an open duration of 252 degrees, but the specified opening and closing angles add up to 258 degrees.[10] All Australian magazine articles state the n/a models have 166 hp (124 kW), and the turbo models as 208 hp (155 kW).[11] The Australian 50th Anniversary Edition was more basic than the US version, the 50th AE was a normal n/a 300zx with the digital dash package, a black interior, black velour seats and a 50th AE badge on the exterior. The exterior badge was fixed to the cars by dealerships, so the position of the badge is not the same on all models. There was no Shiro Special in Australia, and no models featured the adjustable shock absorbers. [edit] Chassis The Z31 chassis was based on the 280ZX, but improved upon it. Although the newer chassis had the same wheelbase and MacPherson strut/semi-trailing arm independent suspension, it handled and accelerated better than the 280ZX it replaced. Turbocharged models, except for the Shiro Special edition, had an additional innovation: 3-way electronically adjustable shock absorbers. [edit] Special Z31 releases A 1984 50th Anniversary Edition 300ZX. Nissan manufactured two special Z31 models. The 1984 300ZX 50th Anniversary Edition, released to celebrate Nissan's half-century, was a fully-loaded turbocharged model with a Silver/Black color scheme. All 50th Anniversary Edition came equipped with a digital dash including MPG and compass readouts, in-car electronic adjustable shocks, Bodysonic speakers in the seats, cruise and radio controls in the steering wheel, mirrored t-tops, embroidered leather seats, embroidered floor mats, sixteen-inch (406 mm) aluminum wheels, rear fender flares, different front fenders, and 50th AE logo badges on the body. The only option available to the 50th Anniversary Edition was the choice between an automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission. 5,148 AE models were produced for the US market. Notably, 1984 also marks the last year of turbochargers cooled entirely by oil. 1985 turbo models are equipped with coolant passages to ensure turbo longevity. In 1988, the turbocharged Shiro Special debuted with pearl white paint, stiffer springs and matched shocks, heavy-duty anti-sway bars, a unique front air dam, paint matched wheels, Recaro seats with matching door panels, painted bumperettes, white painted doorhandles and a viscous, limited-slip differential. No other options were available for the Shiro, meaning all Shiros were identical. It was the fastest car out of Japan, capable of 153 mph (246 km/h) speeds, as tested by Motor Trend with the electronic speed limiter disabled.[2] A total of 1002 Shiro Special Z31s were produced for the US market between January and March 1988.[3] [edit] Style and evolution The Z31 body was slightly restyled in 1986 with the addition of side skirts, fender flares, and sixteen inch (406 mm) wheels (all directly from the 1984 50th Anniversary Edition with the exception of the fender flares). Many black plastic trim pieces were also painted to match the body color, and the hood scoop was removed to provide a sleeker look. The car was given a final makeover in 1987 that included more aerodynamic bumpers, fog lamps within the front air dam, and 9004 bulb-based headlamps that replaced the outdated sealed beam headlights. The 300ZX-titled reflector in the rear was updated to a narrow set of tail lights running the entire width of the car and an LED third brake light on top of the rear hatch. The Z31 continued selling until 1989, more than any other Z-Car at the time. Over 70,000 units were sold in 1985 alone.[citation needed] [edit] Z32 Z32 Also called Nissan Z32 Production 1989–2000 (1990–1996 in U.S) number produced: 164,170 (for export: 99,286) (for JDM: 64,884)[8] Predecessor Nissan 300ZX Body style(s) 2-door convertible 2-door coupe Engine(s) 3.0 L VG30DE V6 3.0 L VG30DETT V6 Transmission(s) 5-Speed RS5R30A Manual Transmission 4-Speed RE4R01A Automatic Transmission 4-Speed RE4R03A Automatic Transmission Wheelbase 2,450 mm (96.5 in) 2 seater[1] 2,570 mm (101.2 in) 2+2[1] Length 4,305 mm (169.5 in) 2 seater[1] 4,520 mm (178.0 in) 2+2[1] Width 1,790 mm (70.5 in) 2 seater[1] 1,800 mm (70.9 in) 2+2[1] Height 1990-92: 49.2 in (1250 mm) 1990-92 T-Roof Turbo & Convertible: 49.4 in (1255 mm) 1993-98: 48.4 in (1229 mm) 1993-98 T-Roof 2+2: 48.1 in (1222 mm) 1993-95 Convertible: 49.5 in (1257 mm) 1996-98 Slicktop: 48.3 in (1227 mm) 1996-98 Convertible: 48.7 in (1237 mm) Curb weight 3,186 lb (1,445 kg) 2 seater non-turbo 3,474 lb (1,576 kg) 2 seater twin-turbo 3,432 lb (1,557 kg) 2 seater convertible 3,313 lb (1,503 kg) 2+2 non-turbo 3,602 lb (1,634 kg) 2+2 twin-turbo Designer Isao Sono & Toshio Yamashita The only thing that remained unchanged from the previous generation 300ZX was the displacement of the 3-liter engine, now with dual overhead camshafts(DOHC), variable valve timing(VVT) and producing a rated 222 hp (166 kW) and 198 lb·ft (268 N·m) in naturally aspirated form. The big news for enthusiasts, however, was the turbo variant, now upgraded with twin Garrett turbochargers and dual intercoolers. This was good for 300 hp (224 kW) along with 283 lb·ft (384 N·m) of torque.[12] Performance varied from 0-60 times of 5.0-6.0 seconds depending on the source, and it had a governed top speed of 155 mph (249 km/h). Upon its release, the new 300ZX became an instant hit, winning Motor Trend's "Import Car of the Year" in 1990 as well as "One of the Top Ten Performance Cars". Automobile Magazine honors the 300ZX/300ZX Turbo as its "Design of the Year" and adds it to their "All Stars" list. Road & Track names the 300ZX Turbo "One of the Ten Best Cars in the World", and Car and Driver adds it to their 10Best for the seven years in which it was in production in America. American Z-car sales reach the one million sales mark in the 1990 model year, making it the all-time best selling sports car.[13] Nissan utilized the Cray-II supercomputer to completely design the new 300ZX with a form of CAD software.[14] This made the 300ZX one of the first production cars to be developed in a CAD program. In return, it featured a whole host of technological advancements. On the twin turbo models, four-wheel steering was available under the name Super HICAS (High Capacity Actively Controlled Steering). The twin turbochargers, intercoolers, and requisite plumbing left for a cramped engine bay; however, everything fit perfectly. Like previous generations Nissan offered a 2+2 model with the Z32. In 1993, a convertible version was introduced for the first time in the Z-car's history, as a response to aftermarket conversions. All 300ZXs now featured T-tops as standard, yet there were some rare hardtops produced as well. The 300ZX was doomed to the same fate of many Japanese sports cars of the time. The mid-'90s trend toward SUVs and the rising Yen:Dollar ratio were both influential in ending North American 300ZX sales in 1996 at over 80,000 units sold (production for other markets continued until 2000). In 1990 the 300ZX was priced at about $30,000, but in its final year this price had increased to around $50,000. This left many people questioning its value, and despite a final Commemorative Edition for the final 300 units shipped to America (complete with decals and certificates of authenticity), the Z-Car was on hiatus. In Japan, however, the 300ZX lived on for a few more years with a face-lift including a new fascia, tail lights, head lights, rear spoiler, and a few other minor changes. [edit] Style and evolution The Z32 chassis would likewise undergo several changes throughout its US production run between 1989 and 1996. Among the milestone safety additions are the inclusion of standard driver and passenger-side airbags and true pillar-mount seat belts. The Z32's extended model year sales in 1990 reached 39,290 units.[15] 1991 Manual climate controls discontinued. New electronic climate controls allowing control over air flow direction, but no more ambient temp gauge. Nissan logo put on the front fascia (nose panel). Driver's airbag now optional. Air conditioner evaporator valve changed from aluminum to steel for better sound insulation. North American brake rotors changed to Turbo units. Previous NA rotors were 4 mm thinner. CD player option added for both the TT and NA; it was previously only available in the NA. Bose stereo head unit changed. Brake master cylinder changed to new unit in February 1991. Sales: 17,652 units.[15] 1992 Driver's airbag made standard. Brake caliper material changed from aluminum to iron, to help warpage/shimmy problems. Dashboard and door complimentary material changed from fabric to suede. Separate mirror heater switch eliminated (combined with rear defroster switch). Power adjustable driver's seat standard on TT. Sales: 6,708 units.[15] 1993 Turbo oil line insulation changed for better heat dissipation. Convertible option added. New style fuel injectors for the non-turbo, (except convertible), that are less prone to premature failure. Upgraded Bose stereo made standard. AIV system completely eliminated. Non-turbo model, (except convertible), ECUs changed from 8-bit to 16-bit by Japan Electronic Control System Co.. Sales: 11,599 units.[15] 1994 Rear spoiler design changed to a taller, pedestal-type. Front fascia became body coloured instead of gray strip. Seat belts redesigned; they were moved from door mounts to true pillar mounts. SuperHICAS system changed to an electrically-actuated unit.(previously power steering actuated). New style fuel injectors for the convertible. Passenger's side airbag introduced and made standard. Keyless entry added. Titanium keys discontinued in November 1994. 'Reset' button removed from clock. Off-white 'Pearl' color is dropped. Future 'Pearls' are more of a semi-metallic white. Sales: 5,320 units.[15] 1995 New style fuel injectors for the twin-turbo Twin-turbo model ECUs changed from 8-bit to 16-bit (happened late in '94 model year) Sales: 3,135 units.[15] 1996 Variable cam timing (NVTC) dropped. OBD II electronics introduced. Driver's seat back rest no longer included adjustable side bolsters.[15] Sales: 2929 Units total, The last 300 of which are the "Commemorative Edition."[16] [edit] Motorsports In 1984 to 1985 showroom stock racing, the 300ZX captured wins on numerous occasions. The car scored a Trans Am win in 1986 at Lime Rock by Paul Newman for Bob Sharp Racing.[17] This would be the only Trans Am win by a 300ZX.[citation needed] From 1985 to 1987, the Electramotive-developed GTP ZX-Turbo was raced in the IMSA GT Championship's GTP class and also the All Japan Sports Prototype Championship, badged as a Fairlady Z, using a Lola T810 chassis and a VG30ET engine. Following development through 1987, the car would become dominant in IMSA GT in 1988. Additional factory endorsement, combined with a new chassis, transmission and more reliable Goodyear tires contributed to the team's success. The SOHC VG30ET was making upwards of 1,000 hp (700 kW), with a power band that extended from 4000 to 9000 rpm on a single turbo.[18] The Clayton Cunningham Racing 300ZX which won the 1994 24 Hours of Daytona. From 1990 to 1995, Steve Millen drove the twin turbo 300ZX for Clayton Cunningham Racing. The car dominated the IMSA in its GTO, then later GTS categories due to its newly-designed chassis and engine. Millen would rank as the #1 Factory Driver for Nissan for 7 years and earn two IMSA GTS Driving Championships and two IMSA GTS Manufacturer's Championships. Among enthusiasts and the team themselves, the biggest triumph for the race Z32 was the victory in the 24 Hours of Daytona. In the same year at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the 300ZX ranked first in the GTS-1 class and 5th overall. In an attempt to level the playing field in the GTS-1 class by reducing the allowable horsepower, the IMSA declared the twin turbo VG engine ineligible.[6] The 1995 GTS 300ZX car would debut with the V8 Nissan VH engine at Daytona[19] and would place first in the GTS-1 class at the 12 Hours of Sebring and Mosehead Grand Prix in Halifax.[20] The JUN-BLITZ Bonneville Z32 holds the E/BMS class land speed record of 419.84 km/h (260.87 mph) set at the 1995 Bonneville Speed Trial. The vehicle was built as a partnership between JUN Auto and BLITZ. This record remains unbroken. In 1990 JUN's first Z32 went 339.2 km/h at their Yatabe test course and hit 373 km/h after some tuning at Bonneville.[7] [edit] Awards and recognition 1990: The 1990 300-ZX Turbo is named Motor Trend's "Import Car of the Year". Motor Trend also names it, "One of the Top Ten Performance Cars". Automobile Magazine honours the 300-ZX/300ZX Turbo as its "Design of the Year", and names the 300ZX Turbo to its "All Stars" list. Road & Track names the 300ZX Turbo "One of the Ten Best Cars in the World". Car and Driver names the 300ZX Turbo "One of the 10 Best Cars". 1991: The 300ZX Turbo is named to Car and Driver 's "10 Best" list, and is once again one of Automobile Magazine's "All-Stars". 1992: For the third straight year, Car and Driver names the 300ZX Turbo one of its "10 Best", and Automobile Magazine names it to its "All-Stars" list. 1993: For the fourth straight year, the 300ZX Turbo is named a Car and Driver "10 Best", and one of Automobile Magazine's "All-Stars". 1994: For the fifth straight year, the 300ZX Turbo is named to the "10 Best" and "All Stars" lists by Car and Driver and Automobile Magazine, respectively. 1995: For the sixth straight year the 300ZX Turbo is named to the "10 Best" list by Car and Driver. 1996: For the seventh straight year the 300ZX Turbo is named to the "10 Best" list by Car and Driver, this is also the final year of production in the US. Even after production stopped magazines have continued to rave and award the 300ZX years later. 2004: Automobile lists the Z32 as one of the 100 greatest cars of all time. 2006: Automobile lists the Z32 on both the "20 Greatest Cars of the Past 20 years" and the "25 Most Beautiful Cars in History". "once again beautiful, so sleek and tight and shimmering that it still looks great ten years after it went away" -Automobile, 2006 2010: GQ Magazine lists the Z32 as one of the most stylish cars over the past 50 years. From the year it was introduced, the Z32 has also won many comparison tests against similar sports cars such as the Mitsubishi 3000GT/Dodge Stealth, Mazda RX-7, Chevrolet Corvette, Toyota Supra, Dodge Viper, and the Porsche 968.[21] [edit] Safety In Australia, the 1990 to 1995 Nissan 300ZX was assessed in the Used Car Safety Ratings brochure as providing "average" protection for its occupants in the event of a crash.[22] The 300ZX was also reported by the United States Department of Transportation to be safer than other popular sports cars like the RX-7, Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Firebird, and the newer Nissan 350Z in the event of a crash. This is due mainly to the placement of the seatbelt being mounted on the door instead of on the body of the car (90-93 models). [edit] References ^ a b c d e f g Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. (December 1990 (05)). Nissan 300ZX 1991 Service Manual. Tokyo, Japan: Nissan Overseas Service Department. Publication No.: SM1E-0Z32U0.  ^ a b Z-Club Hungary. "Nissan 300 ZX - Z31". http://www.zclubhungary.hu/E300ZXZ31.htm. Retrieved 2007-02-20.  ^ a b ZBUM. "US 1988 300ZX SS Registry and Information". http://www.az-zbum.com/information.ss.registry.shtml. Retrieved 2007-02-20.  ^ a b c Long, Brian (October 1999). Datsun/Nissan 280/300 ZX. Dorchester: Veloce Publishing. pp. 66–69. ISBN 1-901295-06-0.  ^ WSPR Racing. "24 h Le Mans". http://www.wspr-racing.com/wspr/results/lemans/lemans1994.html. Retrieved 2007-03-05.  ^ a b Konik, Michael (1995). "On the Edge". Cigar Aficionado Online. Archived from the original on 2007-10-13. http://web.archive.org/web/20071013172501/http://cigaraficionado.com/Cigar/CA_Archives/CA_Show_Article_Print/0,2812,674,00.html. Retrieved 2007-03-05.  ^ a b Tanaka Industrial Co., Ltd. (1997-2005). "JUN Demonstration Cars". http://www.junauto.co.jp/democar/index.html?en. Retrieved 2007-02-08.  ^ a b Long, Brian (2004). Nissan 300 ZX/350 Z. Dorchester: Veloce Publishing. p. 203. ISBN 1-904788-04-1.  ^ ZBUM. "ZBUM's Z31 FAQs". http://www.az-zbum.com/faqs.shtml. Retrieved 2007-03-13.  ^ "Australian Z31 Owners Club • View topic - 300ZX FSM". Auz31club.com. http://www.auz31club.com/viewtopic.php?p=464#p464. Retrieved 2010-10-23.  ^ "Zed Speed - Part One". AutoSpeed. http://autospeed.com/cms/title_Zed-Speed-Part-One/A_2491/article.html. Retrieved 2010-10-23.  ^ "Nissan 300ZX forum". TwinTurbo.NET. http://www.twinturbo.net/ttnetfaq/stats/z32stats.html. Retrieved 2010-10-23.  ^ "Z Cars ~ Z History". Zcca.org. http://www.zcca.org/pages/ZCarsZhistory.htm. Retrieved 2010-10-23.  ^ "Johnthecopywriter: 300ZX Brochure" (PDF). http://www.johnthecopywriter.com/NIssan_300ZX_files/300zx%20Broch.pdf. Retrieved 2010-10-23.  ^ a b c d e f g TwinTurbo.NET (1998-2007). "FAQ: What are the differences between model years?". http://twinturbo.net/ttnetfaq/FAQpages/differences.html. Retrieved 2007-02-08.  ^ Paul Hillman. "The US 300 ZX Production Numbers". http://www.az-zbum.com/information.production.shtml. Retrieved 2008-03-14.  ^ Stone, M and Lerner, P (2009). Winning: The Racing Life of Paul Newman. Motorbooks, p. 75,172. ISBN 0760337063. ^ RedZ31 Dyno Charts. "Electromotive VG30ET Power Band". http://redz31.net/turbofaq/dynographs/gtpzxturbodyno.jpg. Retrieved 2007-06-20.  ^ Stillen. "Racing Heritage 2". http://www.stillen.com/page.asp?heritage2. Retrieved 2007-03-05.  ^ WSPR Racing. "Imsa 1995". http://www.wspr-racing.com/wspr/results/imsa/imsa1995.html. Retrieved 2007-03-05.  ^ Motor Trend (April 1992). RX-7 vs. 3000GT vs. Corvette vs. 300ZX. PRIMEDIA Magazines, Inc.. pp. 46–52.  ^ Australian Transport Safety Bureau; Land Transport New Zealand, New Zealand Automobile Association, National Roads and Motorists' Association, Royal Automobile Club of Victoria, Royal Automobile Club of Western Australia, Road Safety Council, Roads and Traffic Authority of New South Wales, Transport Accident Commission, VicRoads (2006-06). "Passenger vehicles built 1982-2004, 2006 update" (PDF). Used Car Safety Ratings (Land Transport NZ): 17. ISSN: 1176-9890. http://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/NR/rdonlyres/A84147E8-69ED-488D-8E0C-3C447112AC5E/0/GDS01655UsedCarSafety_FA.pdf. Retrieved 2007-02-21.  [edit] External links Wikimedia Commons has media related to: Nissan 300ZX Nissan USA: Inside Nissan - Heritage Safety Recalls for Nissan Fairlady Z 300ZX Service Manuals IMCDB: 300ZX appearances in films and TV shows Z32 Gallery - A collection of media featuring the Nissan 300ZX Z32 v â€¢ d â€¢ e Nissan Z-car timeline, 1960s–present 1960s 1970s 1980s 1990s 2000s 2010s 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 240Z (S30) 260Z (S30) 280Z (S30) 280ZX (S130) 300ZX (Z31) 300ZX (Z32) 350Z (Z33) 370Z (Z34) v â€¢ d â€¢ e Nissan sportscar racers (1966–Present) Group 7 (1966–1970) R380 Â· R381 Â· R382 Â· R383 IMSA GTU (1979–1980) Nissan 280ZX IMSA GTO/GTS (1981–1995) Nissan 280ZX Â· Nissan 300ZX Group B (1982–1986) Nissan 240RS WSC / JSPC (1985–1992) 83G Â· R85V Â· R86V Â· R87E Â· R88V/C Â· R89C Â· R90CK/CP Â· P35/NP35 IMSA GTP (1985–1993) GTP ZX-Turbo Â· NPT-90 Le Mans (1997–1999) R390 GT1 Â· R391 Super GT (1993–2010) Nissan Skyline GT-R Â· Nissan Silvia Â· Nissan 350Z Â· Nissan GT-R Â· FIA GT1 (2010-) Nissan GT-R v â€¢ d â€¢ e Nissan Motor Company Vehicles Current 370Z â€¢ Advan â€¢ Altima â€¢ Aprio â€¢ Armada â€¢ Atlas â€¢ Bluebird â€¢ Cabstar â€¢ Caravan â€¢ Civilian â€¢ Clipper â€¢ Cube â€¢ Dualis â€¢ Echo â€¢ Elgrand â€¢ Frontier â€¢ Freeson â€¢ Fuga â€¢ GT-R â€¢ Juke â€¢ Lafesta â€¢ Leaf â€¢ Livina Geniss â€¢ Maxima â€¢ March â€¢ Murano â€¢ Moco â€¢ Navara â€¢ Note â€¢ NV200 â€¢ NV400 â€¢ Otti â€¢ Paladin â€¢ Pathfinder â€¢ Patrol â€¢ Qashqai â€¢ Quest â€¢ Rogue â€¢ Safari â€¢ Sentra â€¢ Serena â€¢ Skyline â€¢ Teana â€¢ Tiida â€¢ Titan â€¢ Urvan â€¢ Versa â€¢ Wingroad â€¢ X-Trail â€¢ Xterra Past DC-3 â€¢ 100NX â€¢ 1200 â€¢ 210 â€¢ 310 â€¢ 180SX â€¢ 200SX â€¢ B10 â€¢ B110 â€¢ B-210 â€¢ 240SX â€¢ 240Z â€¢ 280ZX â€¢ 300C â€¢ 300ZX â€¢ 350Z â€¢ 510 â€¢ 810 â€¢ Almera â€¢ Almera Tino â€¢ Altra (EV) â€¢ Avenir â€¢ Auster â€¢ Bassara â€¢ Be-1 â€¢ Caball â€¢ Cablight â€¢ Cedric â€¢ Cefiro  â€¢ Cherry â€¢ Cima â€¢ Crew â€¢ Datsun Truck â€¢ Expert â€¢ Fairlady â€¢ Figaro â€¢ Gazelle â€¢ Gloria â€¢ Hardbody Truck â€¢ Hypermini â€¢ Homy â€¢ Interstar â€¢ Laurel â€¢ Leopard â€¢ Liberty â€¢ Mistral â€¢ Multi â€¢ NX â€¢ Pao â€¢ Pintara â€¢ Pino â€¢ Platina â€¢ Prairie â€¢ Presage â€¢ Presea â€¢ Primera â€¢ President â€¢ Pulsar â€¢ Pulsar GTI-R â€¢ R390 GT1 â€¢ R'nessa â€¢ Rasheen â€¢ Roadster-Road Star â€¢ S-Cargo â€¢ Saurus â€¢ Saurus Jr â€¢ Silvia â€¢ Sileighty â€¢ Skyline GT-R â€¢ Stanza â€¢ Stagea â€¢ Sunny â€¢ Terrano â€¢ Terrano II â€¢ Vanette â€¢ Violet â€¢ Concept 126X â€¢ 216X â€¢ 270X â€¢ 300 Bambu â€¢ 315-a â€¢ AA-X â€¢ Actic â€¢ AD-1 â€¢ AD-2 â€¢ AL-X â€¢ Alpha T â€¢ Amenio â€¢ AQ-X â€¢ AP-X â€¢ ARC-X â€¢ AXY â€¢ AZEAL â€¢ Bevel â€¢ Boga â€¢ C-Note â€¢ Chapeau â€¢ Chappo â€¢ Cocoon â€¢ CQ-X â€¢ Crossbow â€¢ CUE-X â€¢ Cypact â€¢ Duad â€¢ Dunehawk â€¢ Effis â€¢ ESV â€¢ Evalia â€¢ EV Guide II â€¢ EV Truck â€¢ FEV â€¢ FEV-II â€¢ Foria â€¢ Forum â€¢ Fusion â€¢ Gobi â€¢ GR-1 â€¢ GR-2 â€¢ GT-R â€¢ ideo â€¢ Intima â€¢ Jikoo â€¢ Judo â€¢ Jura â€¢ Kino â€¢ KYXX â€¢ Land Glider â€¢ LEAF â€¢ LUC-2 â€¢ MID4 â€¢ Mixim â€¢ mm.e â€¢ Moco â€¢ Nails â€¢ NCS â€¢ NEO-X â€¢ NRV-II â€¢ NX-21 â€¢ NV2500 â€¢ Pivo â€¢ Pivo 2 â€¢ Qazana â€¢ Redigo â€¢ Round Box â€¢ Serenity â€¢ Sport Concept â€¢ Stylish VI â€¢ Terranaut â€¢ Tone â€¢ Townpod â€¢ Trailrunner â€¢ TRI-X â€¢ URGE â€¢ UV-X â€¢ XIX â€¢ XVL â€¢ Yanya â€¢ Zaroot Engines Straight-3 HR Straight-4 A â€¢ BD â€¢ C â€¢ CA â€¢ CD â€¢ CG â€¢ CR â€¢ D â€¢ E â€¢ FJ â€¢ G â€¢ GA â€¢ H â€¢ HR â€¢ J â€¢ KA â€¢ L â€¢ LD â€¢ MA â€¢ MR â€¢ NA â€¢ QD â€¢ QG â€¢ QR â€¢ SD â€¢ SR â€¢ TD â€¢ YD â€¢ Z â€¢ ZD Straight-6 FD â€¢ H â€¢ L â€¢ LD â€¢ P â€¢ S20 â€¢ RB â€¢ RD â€¢ SD â€¢ TB â€¢ TD V6 VE â€¢ VG â€¢ VQ â€¢ VR V8 VH â€¢ VK â€¢ Y â€¢ VEJ30 â€¢ VRH35 V12 GRX-3 â€¢ UD12 â€¢ VRT35 Marques Nissan â€¢ Infiniti Tuners Autech â€¢ Impul â€¢ Nismo See also Datsun â€¢ Infiniti (division) â€¢ Prince â€¢ Renault (business alliance) â€¢ Nissan Shatai â€¢ UD Nissan Diesel â€¢ VVL â€¢ VVEL â€¢ dCi v â€¢ d â€¢ e Nissan road car timeline, United States and Canadian markets, 1980s–present Type 1980s 1990s 2000s 2010s 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 Subcompact Micra 210 Sentra Sentra Sentra Sentra Versa Compact 310 Sentra Sentra 510 Stanza Stanza Stanza Altima Altima Leaf 810 Maxima Maxima Mid-size Altima Altima Maxima Maxima Maxima Full-size Maxima Maxima Sport compact Pulsar NX Pulsar NX NX 200SX 200SX 200SX 240SX 240SX Sports 280ZX 300ZX 300ZX 350Z 370Z GT-R || Nissan Z-car From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search "Z-car" redirects here. For other uses, see Z-car (disambiguation). This article is written like a magazine article; it does not use the direct, balanced tone expected of an encyclopedia. Please discuss this issue on the talk page. Editing help is available. (March 2009) Nissan Z-car Manufacturer Nissan Also called Nissan Fairlady Z (Japan) Production 1969-2000 2002-present Assembly Hiratsuka, Kanagawa, Japan (1969-2000) Oppama, Japan (2002-2004) Tochigi, Tochigi, Japan (2004-present) Class Sports cars Layout FR layout The Z-car is a series of sports cars manufactured by Nissan Motors Ltd.. The original Z was sold in October 1969 in Japan as the Nissan Fairlady Z and was exported as the Datsun 240Z. Since 2009 Nissan has manufactured the newest Z, the 370Z. The earlier models of the Nissan Z were built at the Nissan Shatai plant in Hiratsuka until 2000, while the later models (350Z and 370Z), which are built at Oppama (2002–2004) and Tochigi (2004–present). Enthusiasts praise the cars for their looks, reliability, performance, and affordability. Nissan Z cars currently hold the record for the best selling sports car series of all time with over 2 million cars sold. Every Z car has been sold in Japan as the Fairlady Z and elsewhere under the names 240Z, 260Z, 280Z, 280ZX, 300ZX, 350Z and 370Z. Contents 1 History 1.1 First generation (S30) 1.2 Second generation (S130) 1.3 Third generation (Z31) 1.4 Fourth generation (Z32) 1.5 Nissan 240Z Concept (1999) 1.6 Fifth generation (Z33) 1.7 Sixth generation (Z34) 2 Engines 3 Racing 4 ZCON 5 References 6 External links [edit] History Nissan was a relatively small company when in the 1960s it partnered with Yamaha to design a new sports car prototype. Nissan executives saw the prototype as a halo car that would improve their company's image in the minds of consumers. By 1964 Nissan realized that Yamaha's DOHC 2.0-liter engine was not meeting Nissan's expectations and the project was scrapped. Yamaha later finished a prototype and took their design to Toyota, resulting in the Toyota 2000GT. Yutaka Katayama, the president of Nissan USA at the time, realized the importance of an affordable sports car. Nissan had already produced the successful series of Fairlady roadsters that competed mainly with English and Italian roadsters, and product planners envisioned a new line of GT cars that would be stylish, innovative, fast, and relatively inexpensive through the use of interchangeable parts with other Nissan vehicles. Prototype work began in 1966 with a clay mockup. The 240Z design project was carried out primarily by 10 people: Mr. Yutaka Katayama (President of Nissan USA, known as "Mr. K") Mr. Teiichi Hara (Manager, Nissan Design and Development) Mr. Kazumi Yotsurnoto (Manager, Passenger Car Styling Section) Mr. Yoshihiko Matsuo (Chief of Design, Styling Studio #4) Mr. Akio Yoshida (Assistant Designer on Exterior Design) Mr. Sue Chiba (Interior Design) Mr. Eiichi Oiwa (Styling Studio Assistant) Mr. Kiichi Nishikawa (Styling Studio Assistant) Mr. Hidemi Kamahara (Design Engineer) Mr. Tsuneo Benitani (Design Engineer)[1] [edit] First generation (S30) Main article: Nissan S30 Nissan/Datsun 240Z (S30) Production of the Nissan Z Car started on October 1969, with 2 separate versions: one for the Japanese market and one for the US market. The Japanese Fairlady Z featured a SOHC L20A inline-6 producing 130 PS (96 kW), while the US 240Z featured a 2.4L L24 inline-6 with twin Hitachi SU-type carburetors that produced 151 hp (113 kW) (SAE gross horsepower). A third Z, the 432Z (PS30) shared a performance version of the DOHC 2.0 L S20 engine with the Nissan Skyline. In Japan, the Z car was still known as the Fairlady to keep the car in line with previous Nissan sports cars. However, Yutaka Katayama ensured the American version had all Nissan badging replaced with "Datsun" and prevented all dealer shipments until they were replaced. The 240Z was released in America on October 22, 1969. Combining good looks, and powerful performance, it sold over 45,000 units through the '71 model year and over 50,000 and 40,000 in 1972 and 1973, respectively.[citation needed] The 260Z was released in 1974 and featured an increased engine displacement of 2.6 L and an available 2+2 model. Despite the engine size increase, power decreased to 139 hp (104 kW) (SAE net horsepower) in most areas of the US due to new camshafts, carburetors, and lower compression that were introduced to comply with new emissions regulations. In other export regions the power was increased to 154 PS (113 kW). The 280Z was released in 1975 in North America (not to be confused with the 280ZX, which is a second-generation Z-car) and featured another engine displacement enlargement to 2.8 L. A major change was the introduction of Bosch fuel injection, replacing the previous SU carburetors. This resulted in a power increase to 170 hp (127 kW), offsetting increased weight from added luxury features and an enlarged bumper that met US Federal regulations. Export markets outside North America continued to receive the Datsun 260Z until the introduction of the Datsun 280ZX at the end of 1978. [edit] Second generation (S130) Main article: Nissan 280ZX Nissan/Datsun 280ZX (S130) The only thing that was left unchanged from the previous 280Z was the 5-speed manual transmission and 2.8-liter L28 inline-6 engine, while the entire car overall was made more luxurious to meet growing consumer demands. Major changes for this new generation of Z-cars include t-tops, introduced in 1980, and a turbocharged model introduced in 1981, complementing the naturally aspirated (NA) 2-seater and NA 2+2 models. Coupled to either a 3-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission, the turbocharged model was capable of 180 bhp (130 kW) and 203 ft·lbf (275 N·m) of torque, over the 135 bhp (101 kW) and 144 ft·lbf (195 N·m) of the NA engine. Notable models include the 10th Anniversary Edition,[2] featuring gold emblems, gold alloy wheels, and two-toned paint in either gold/red and black, with luxury features such as leather seats, headlamp washers, and automatic climate control. The 280ZX was wildly popular, being hailed as Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1979 and going on to set a Z-car sales record of 86,007 units in its first year.[3] While on the one hand it received praise for taking the Z-car to further levels of comfort and performance, many enthusiasts also lamented the further emphasis on luxury over driving fun. This would continue with the third generation of Z-car, with a clean-sheet redesign that would take the Z-car to further heights. [edit] Third generation (Z31) Main article: Nissan 300ZX Nissan 300ZX (Z31) The Z-car was completely redesigned in 1984, and introduced Nissan's new series of 3.0-liter V6 engine, dubbed the VG series. The same engine was used in the Electramotive (later to become NPTI) GTP ZX-Turbo that dominated the IMSA GTP races in 1988 and 1989. These were available in both VG30E naturally-aspirated and VG30ET turbocharged forms producing 160 and 200 bhp (120 and 150 kW) respectively, although some VG30ET powered Z-cars exported outside of the US produced 228 bhp (170 kW) due to a longer cam duration and less emission restrictions. These were showcased in sleek new wedge-shaped styling and given a new name, the 300ZX. Like its predecessor, it also proved to be wildly popular and was the second-best selling Z-car in history[4] selling over 70,000 units due in part not only to its new styling but also to even more added luxury features and high performance. When the 300ZX Turbo was released in Japan, it offered the highest HP available in a Japanese standard production car at the time.[5] Much like the 280ZX that preceded it, the first-gen 300ZX was thought by enthusiasts as more GT than true sports car. It had improved handling, acceleration, and refinement on any previous model Z-car. Nissan made various changes and claimed improvements to the Z31 model through its entire production. In 1983 Nissan first offered the 300ZX in Japan. It was introduced in the US one year later. All US-market 1984 model Nissan vehicles carried both Datsun and Nissan nameplates. Along with the arrival of their new flagship sports coupe, Nissan launched an aggressive marketing campaign to promote the brand name change from Datsun to Nissan. The 1984 Models can technically be considered the only year of the "Datsun 300ZX". The 1984 300ZX 50th Anniversary Edition was released in celebration of the company's 50th anniversary year. It was based on the standard 300ZX Turbo, but was outfitted with every luxury feature available, a unique black interior with "bodysonic" leather seats in addition to widened fender flares, requisite badging, rear quarter panel flares, and sixteen-inch (406 mm) wheels (400 mm).[6] For the 1985 model year, Nissan dropped the Datsun name brand for good, but the car dealers were still known as Datsun dealers. Paul Newman raced in the 1985 GT1 Challenge and won. This was Newman's 4th national championship. Minor changes were made to the 300ZX including a water-cooled turbocharger, smoked taillights, and body-color bumpers. The 1986 model saw wider flared wheel wells, and the rear quarter panels were designed specifically to accommodate factory ground effect style side skirts. 1986 turbo models were equipped with an ordinary hood, markedly losing the turbo "scoop" on the drivers side. In order to keep up with quickly aging aesthetics, another slight redesign happened in 1987, consisting of new rounded, restyled and longer front and rear bumpers, new headlights, and new tail lights. The black trim on turbo models was now a charcoal instead of gloss black, and 1987 Turbo models came with special "smoked" turbo-finned wheels. All 1987 model year turbo cars also received an upgraded manual transmission, larger and more powerful brakes, and turbo cars produced from 4/87 and later came equipped with a clutch-type limited-slip differential. For the 1988 models, there were again a few small changes. The turbocharger was switched from the Garrett T3 turbo to a lower-inertia T25 turbo, and the engine from 7.8:1 to an 8.3:1 compression ratio in order to reduce turbocharger spool time and provide instant boost at any usable RPM. The interior aluminum accents and chrome door handles that adorned the earlier cars were dropped in favor of matching color parts. Another special edition, the "Shiro Special" (SS), was released in 1988. It was only available in pearl white (shiro meaning "white" in Japanese). The SS package consisted of analog gauges and climate controls with a black interior, stiffer sway bars, stiffer springs, non-adjustable suspension, special seats (Recaro), a viscous-coupling limited slip differential, and a special front lower lip spoiler. This package had no options; all 88SS cars are identical.[7] The 1989 Models are identical to 1988 models, though somewhat rare because of Nissan winding-down production early in preparation for the second generation 300ZX. [edit] Fourth generation (Z32) Main article: Nissan 300ZX Nissan 300ZX (Z32) The only thing that remained unchanged from the previous generation 300ZX is the 3.0-liter V6 engine, now with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT) and producing a rated 222 hp (166 kW) and 198 lb·ft (268 N·m) in naturally aspirated form. The big news for enthusiasts, however, was the turbo variant, now upgraded with twin Garrett turbochargers and dual intercoolers. This was good for 300 hp (224 kW) along with 283 lb·ft (384 N·m) of torque.[8] Performance varied from 0-60 times of 5.0-6.0 seconds depending on the source, and it had a governed top speed of 155 mph (249 km/h). Upon its release, the new 300ZX became an instant hit, winning Motor Trend's "Import Car of the Year" in 1990 as well as "One of the Top Ten Performance Cars". Automobile Magazine honors the 300ZX/300ZX Turbo as its "Design of the Year" and adds it to their "All Stars" list. Road & Track names the 300ZX Turbo "One of the Ten Best Cars in the World", and Car and Driver adds it to their 10Best for the seven years in which it was in production in America. American Z-car sales reach the one million sales mark in the 1990 model year, making it the all-time best selling sports car.[9] Even years after production the 300ZX is still thought to be one of the most beautiful automobile designs of all time. Nissan utilized the Cray-II supercomputer to completely design the new 300ZX with a form of CAD software.[10] This made the 300ZX one of the first production cars to be developed in a CAD program. In return, it featured a whole host of technological advancements. On the twin turbo models, four-wheel steering was available under the name Super HICAS (High Capacity Actively Controlled Steering). The twin turbochargers, intercoolers, and requisite plumbing left for a cramped engine bay; however, everything fit perfectly. Like previous generations Nissan offered a 2+2 model with the Z32. In 1993, a convertible version was introduced for the first time in the Z-car's history, as a response to aftermarket conversions. All 300ZXs now featured T-tops as standard, yet there were some rare hardtops (known as "slicktops") produced as well. The 300ZX was doomed to the same fate of many Japanese sports cars of the time. The mid-'90s trend toward SUVs and the rising Yen:Dollar ratio were both influential in ending North American 300ZX sales in 1996 at over 80,000 units sold (production for other markets continued until 2000). Probably the biggest killer of the 300ZX was its ever inflating price;[citation needed] at its release it was priced at a about $30,000, but in its final year this price had increased to around $50,000. This left many people questioning its value, and despite a final Commemorative Edition of the final 300 units shipped to America (complete with decals and certificates of authenticity), the Z-Car was on hiatus. In Japan, however, the 300ZX lived on for a few more years with a face-lift including a new front fascia, tail lights, head lights, rear spoiler, and a few other minor changes. [edit] Nissan 240Z Concept (1999) Nissan 240Z Concept In America the Z-car went on hiatus from 1997 to 2002, as Nissan focused more on SUVs and was also in some financial trouble. To keep Z-car interest alive, Nissan launched a restoration program in 1998 for which they purchased original 240Zs, professionally restored them, and re-sold them at dealerships for about $24,000. Nissan next launched a concept car at the 1999 North American International Auto Show, the 240Z Concept. Clearly a throwback to the original, it was a bright orange two-seater with classic swept-back styling. In addition, it was fully functional, with the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder KA24DE engine from the Nissan Altima featuring 200 bhp (150 kW) and 180 lb·ft (244 N·m) of torque. The designers used an original 240Z to provide inspiration and the concept was created in only 12 weeks. Unfortunately critics said "it would be cool but get a new model."[11] The running concept, featuring a 4-cylinder engine compared to the Z-car's traditional 6-cylinder engine, was eventually thought a less than a worthy successor to the line.[12][13] [edit] Fifth generation (Z33) Main article: Nissan 350Z Nissan 350Z (Z33) In 1999 the French company Renault bought 44.4% of Nissan and Carlos Ghosn became its chief operating officer. But it would not be until 2001 when Carlos Ghosn became CEO that he would tell reporters: "We will build the Z. And we will make it profitable."[14] In August 2001, Nissan introduced the Z Concept. Much like the previous Z concept, it debuted at the North American International Auto Show and was painted a bright orange. The squat, long-hood/short-deck styling resulted from a competition between Nissan's Japanese, European, and American design studios, with the La Jolla, California studio's design being chosen. The product planners hoped to avoid the price problems that plagued the last few years of the 300ZX with a target MSRP of $30,000 while using the Porsche Boxster as a benchmark.[15] In the summer of 2002, the 350Z was released to wide acclaim. It employed a slightly improved version of the 3.5-liter VQ35DE DOHC V6 engine found in multiple Nissan cars at the time, including the Maxima and Pathfinder. This engine initially produced 287 bhp (214 kW) and 274 lb·ft (371 N·m) torque, but in 2005 was increased to 300 bhp (220 kW) and 260 lb·ft (353 N·m). Prices started at $26,000 US, well below the $30,000 mark initially set forth by Nissan. Coupled to either a 6-speed manual gearbox or 5-speed automatic (the automatic lost 13 bhp (9.7 kW) in comparison), it was initially available only as a 2-seater hardtop. A convertible model was later introduced in 2004. The 350Z was available in a selection of seven trim packages, depending on the year: "Base", "Enthusiast", "Performance", "Touring", "Grand Touring", "Track" and "Nismo". The base model 350Z, in comparison to the more expensive packages, did not have a limited-slip differential or a traction control system. Touring and Grand Touring models both featured leather seats, Bose entertainment systems, optional satellite navigation, VDC (vehicle dynamic control), and other user conveniences, while the Grand Touring models also added Rays Engineering forged wheels and the Brembo braking system found on the Track and Nismo models. The Track and limited edition Nismo packages included Rays Engineering forged wheels and the Brembo braking system. In 2007, Nissan dropped the "Track" version in favor of the "Nismo" edition, but retained the Brembo brakes, Rays Engineering wheels, and simple interior, but added a larger exhaust and aggressive body kit. The second Nismo edition, released in 2007, included revised camshafts, a Nismo sport tuned exhaust, custom Rays Engineering 18-inch (460 mm) wheels (19 in/480 mm in rear), front and rear spoilers and rear diffuser, and a Brembo braking system with four-piston front and two-piston rear calipers (with 12.8 in/330 mm front and 12.7 in/320 mm rear rotors). The 2005 35th Anniversary Edition 350Z and 2006 350Z equipped with manual transmissions received a newly revised engine, which increased the redline to 7,000 rpm and increased power to 300 hp (220 kW). 2007-2008 350Z models came with the 3.5L VQ35HR engine with dual intakes and a 7,500 rpm redline, which produced a power output of 306 hp (228 kW). [edit] Sixth generation (Z34) Main article: Nissan 370Z Nissan 370Z (Z34) On December 30, 2008 the 370Z was introduced as a 2009 model.[16] In June 2009 the second generation 2009 Nismo 370Z debuted.[17] This was followed by the introduction of the 2010 370Z Roadster in late summer of 2009.[18] The 370Z (Z34) is powered by Nissan's 3.7 liter V6 engine, the VQ37VHR. Power output is approximately 332 hp (248 kW) with 270 ft·lbf (370 N·m). of torque. The Nissan 370Z has a 0-60 mph time of 5.1 seconds.[19] However, the car has also been tested by Motor Trend Magazine, who reported a 4.7 second 0-60 mph with 1-foot (0.30 m) of roll out. Quarter mile times range between 13.1 and 13.6, thus making the 370Z the fastest production Z. The 370Z is currently available with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed automatic with paddle shifters. The six-speed manual is the first manual gearbox to feature 'synchro-rev matching,' which automatically blips the throttle to simulate heel and toe shifting. The 370Z includes styling updates to the previous 350Z, including improved interior cosmetics and ergonomics. [edit] Engines The first two generations S30(240Z/260Z/280Z and S130 (280ZX) of Z-car were powered by a Straight-6, (part of the L-series of Nissan engines, which powered most of their vehicles until the early 1980s) with a displacement of 2.4 L in the first incarnation, and increasing to 2.6 L and 2.8 L in the 260Z, and the 280Z and ZX, respectively. The second generation, the 280ZX, introduced in 1979 was a complete re-design, retaining only the L28 engine and other driveline components. A turbo option was introduced in 1981, bringing performance surpassing that of the original 240Z. The third generation, the 300ZX, switched to a 3.0 L V6. There were 2 generations of the 300ZX, the Z31 from 1984–1989, and the Z32 from 1990-1996. Both the Z31 and Z32 came in either non-turbo or turbo trims. During the 90's the cars price continued to elevate and sales continued to fall. Even a major design change in 1998 couldn't save it, and production finally ended in 1999. While the model names were based on the engine capacity for the US markets, with the 240Z having a 2.4 litre L24 engine and the 260Z having a 2.6 litre L26 engine and so on to the 300ZX 3.0 litre V6, due to Japanese taxation laws relating to engine capacity some second and third generation (S130 and Z31) Fairlady Z cars were produced for the Japanese domestic market fitted with 2.0L engines. The S130 was available with an L20E inline 6, while the Z31 had either a RB20DET inline 6 or a VG20E V6. In the 2003 model year, Nissan reentered the US sports-car market with the 350Z, powered by a 3.5 L V6(VQ35DE), and styled in an attempt to create a more modern interpretation of the 240Z's lines. It had a new 6-speed manual gearbox, and is capable of over 155 mph (249 km/h). The 350Zs engine was updated twice during the cars life cycle with mechanical changes that also brought modest bumps in power. The 2009+ 370Zs feature a 3.7L V6(VQ37VHR) producing 332HP(350HP in NISMO trim). [edit] Racing The first generation Zs (240Z/260Z/280Z) proved to be very successful in many forms of racing. The S30s won many SCCA/IMSA championships and even became quite successful in rally and baja races. Don Devendorf and Tony Adamowicz drove a 280ZX Turbo to the 1983 IMSA GTO Championship. The 280ZX proved successful in various classes of racing, particularly in the US. Significant results include: 1979 SCCA C Production Category (Bob Sharp Racing 280ZX) 1979 and 1980 IMSA GTU Championship (Electramotive Datsun 280ZX) 1982 and 1983 IMSA GTO Championship (Electramotive Datsun 280ZX Turbo) The 1983 Electramotive 280ZX Turbo produced over 700 hp (522 kW), and reached a terminal speed of 140 mph (230 km/h) in the standing quarter mile. The most notable driver to be associated with the car was actor Paul Newman, who raced with the Bob Sharp Racing team. He also helped to promote the car, even by starring in a series of commercials. In 1984 to 1985 showroom stock racing, the 300ZX captured wins on numerous occasions. The car scored its only Trans Am win in 1986 at Lime Rock by Paul Newman for Bob Sharp Racing.[citation needed] From 1985 to 1987, the Electramotive-developed GTP ZX-Turbo was raced in the IMSA GT Championship's GTP class and also the All Japan Sports Prototype Championship, badged as a Fairlady Z, using a Lola T810 chassis and a VG30ET engine. Following development through 1987, the car would become dominant in IMSA GT in 1988. Additional factory endorsement, combined with a new chassis, transmission and more reliable Goodyear tires contributed to the team's success. The SOHC VG30ET was making upwards of 1,000 hp (700 kW), with a power band that extended from 4000 to 9000 rpm on a single turbo.[20] The Clayton Cunningham Racing 300ZX which won the 1994 24 Hours of Daytona. From 1990 to 1995, Steve Millen drove the twin turbo 300ZX for Clayton Cunningham Racing. The car dominated the IMSA in its GTO, then later GTS categories due to its newly-designed chassis and engine. Millen would rank as the #1 Factory Driver for Nissan for 7 years and earn two IMSA GTS Driving Championships and two IMSA GTS Manufacturer's Championships. Among enthusiasts and the team themselves, the biggest triumph for the race Z32 was the victory in the 24 Hours of Daytona. In the same year at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the 300ZX ranked first in the GTS-1 class and 5th overall. In an attempt to level the playing field in the GTS-1 class by reducing the allowable horsepower, the IMSA declared the twin turbo VG engine ineligible.[21] The 1995 GTS 300ZX car would debut with the V8 Nissan VH engine at Daytona[22] and would place first in the GTS-1 class at the 12 Hours of Sebring and Mosehead Grand Prix in Halifax.[23] The JUN-BLITZ Bonneville Z32 holds the E/BMS class land speed record of 419.84 km/h (260.87 mph) set at the 1995 Bonneville Speed Trial. The vehicle was built as a partnership between JUN Auto and BLITZ. This record remains unbroken. In 1990 JUN's first Z32 went 339.2 km/h at their Yatabe test course and hit 373 km/h after some tuning at Bonneville.[24] Xanavi Nissan 350Z GT at the 2006 British International Motor Show Xanavi 350Z, rear The 350Z replaced the Skyline GT-R as the car for Nissan's factory and customer teams in the Super GT's GT 500 class. The cars used were heavily modified and featured a longer nose and tail (requiring the production of the Type-E homologation special), carbon fiber bodywork, and a tube chassis. In 2004, NISMO won the GT500 championship. Until the 2007 season, the car was powered by a VQ30DETT V6. In order to increase competitiveness, however, a new 4.5L V8 powerplant has been developed. The 350Z, with slightly more pedestrian modifications also competes in the GT300 class (having started there even before the Skyline GT-Rs were replaced) by teams such as Endless Sports and Mola. In 2003 Hasemi Sports won the GT300 championship with the 350Z. In 2008 season, the 350Zs were all replaced by Nissan GT-Rs in the GT500 class, but they have continued to be used in the GT300 class as the GT-Rs overexceed the horsepower limits which make it impossible to participate. Thus, two 350Zs competed in the series and MOLA won the both Drivers' and Teams' championships in the GT300 class. The Z33 is also popular in import drag racing, one Z33 fielded by Performance Motorsport in the NHRA Sports Compact series, with twin turbo claims to put out over 1,700 bhp (1,268 kW; 1,724 PS) and achieved 8.33 quarter mile time with its best speed of 176.72 mph (284.40 km/h).[citation needed] Another 350Z built by Injected Performance holds the record as the highest horsepower, street legal 350Z and highest horsepower single turbo VQ35DE with a quarter mile time of 8.80 with a speed of 163 mph (262 km/h). This car was also featured on the March of 2008 cover of Turbo Magazine. Lazcano Racing's 350Z is powered by a built Nissan VG30DETT engine and has recorded a 1/4 mile time of 6.6 at over 211MPH. [edit] ZCON ZCON is an annual Z-Car convention that is held around the country each year (since 1988). It is considered the largest annual gathering of Z car clubs and enthusiasts in America, sponsored by Nissan. The convention is put together each year by a host club and supported by the ZCCA (Z Car Club Association). [edit] References ^ "240Z Design project" ^ The 1980 280ZX Tenth Anniversary Edition ^ HowStuffWorks "Nissan Z History" ^ http://www.elfland.net/About/z/ztimeline.html ^ VG30ET.com - About ^ AE info ^ The SS page ^ TwinTurbo.NET: Nissan 300ZX forum ^ Z Cars ~ Z History ^ Johnthecopywriter: 300ZX Brochure ^ Nissan Z Concept Goes 'Back to Basics' ^ Concept: The Nissan Z ^ http://www.cars.com/carsapp/boston/?srv=parser&act=display&tf=/features/autoshow99/concept/nissan_2.tmpl ^ ROADandTRACK.com - First Drives - 2003 Nissan 350Z (12/2001) ^ 2003 Nissan Z - First Drive Review / Japanese Performance / High Performance / Hot Lists / Reviews / Car and Driver - Car And Driver ^ "NISSAN ANNOUNCES PRICING ON ALL-NEW 2009 370Z COUPE". Nissan Motor Corporation U.S.A.. 2008-12-30. http://www.nissannews.com/newsrelease.do?id=653&mid=182. Retrieved 2009-07-09.  ^ "All-New 2009 Nissan NISMO 370Z Offers Racing-Inspired Performance and Style". Nissan Motor Corporation U.S.A.. 2008-04-07. http://www.nissannews.com/newsrelease.do?id=716&mid=182. Retrieved 2009-07-09.  ^ "All-New 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster Adds Open-Air Excitement; Features Power Auto-Lock Top Design". Nissan Motor Corporation U.S.A.. 2008-04-07. http://www.nissannews.com/newsrelease.do?id=697&mid=182. Retrieved 2009-07-09.  ^ [Edmunds] ^ RedZ31 Dyno Charts. "Electromotive VG30ET Power Band". http://redz31.net/turbofaq/dynographs/gtpzxturbodyno.jpg. Retrieved 2007-06-20.  ^ Konik, Michael (1995). "On the Edge". Cigar Aficionado Online. Archived from the original on 2007-10-13. http://web.archive.org/web/20071013172501/http://cigaraficionado.com/Cigar/CA_Archives/CA_Show_Article_Print/0,2812,674,00.html. Retrieved 2007-03-05.  ^ STILLEN. "Racing Heritage 2". http://www.stillen.com/page.asp?heritage2. Retrieved 2007-03-05.  ^ WSPR Racing. "IMSA 1995". http://www.wspr-racing.com/wspr/results/imsa/imsa1995.html. Retrieved 2007-03-05.  ^ Tanaka Industrial Co., Ltd. (1997-2005). "JUN Demonstration Cars". http://www.junauto.co.jp/democar/index.html?en. Retrieved 2007-02-08.  [edit] External links Datsun Sports Roadster and Fairlady (フェアレディ) Racing History Classic Z Register Datsun History Z Car Club Association Japanese Car portal v â€¢ d â€¢ e Nissan Z-car timeline, 1960s–present 1960s 1970s 1980s 1990s 2000s 2010s 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 240Z (S30) 260Z (S30) 280Z (S30) 280ZX (S130) 300ZX (Z31) 300ZX (Z32) 350Z (Z33) 370Z (Z34) v â€¢ d â€¢ e Nissan sportscar racers (1966–Present) Group 7 (1966–1970) R380 Â· R381 Â· R382 Â· R383 IMSA GTU (1979–1980) Nissan 280ZX IMSA GTO/GTS (1981–1995) Nissan 280ZX Â· Nissan 300ZX Group B (1982–1986) Nissan 240RS WSC / JSPC (1985–1992) 83G Â· R85V Â· R86V Â· R87E Â· R88V/C Â· R89C Â· R90CK/CP Â· P35/NP35 IMSA GTP (1985–1993) GTP ZX-Turbo Â· NPT-90 Le Mans (1997–1999) R390 GT1 Â· R391 Super GT (1993–2010) Nissan Skyline GT-R Â· Nissan Silvia Â· Nissan 350Z Â· Nissan GT-R Â· FIA GT1 (2010-) Nissan GT-R || HOME CLASSIFIEDS Nissan 300ZX Classifieds Search Submit Advert Manage my Ads Help/FAQ Dealer Info Tools Email Notifications My Bookmarks Resources Fraud Warnings HPI Check Car Saving Plan Car Finance Car Insurance Car Servicing Car Warranty Number Plate Search Feeds List Gallery Map Filter Show: Sort: PostCode: previous12next SUPERLEGGERA  (2009) FOR SALE ARE A SET OF 4 18" OZ SUPERLEGGERA WHEELS REMOVED FROM MY NISSAN 300ZX PRIOR TO SALE,(the buyer wanted the original wheels on the car)THE WHEELS ARE IN MINT ... PX: WHY Full Details yorkshire Premium Advert £495 3 days NISSAN 300ZX TWIN TURBO TARGA TOP ( SERIES 3 )  (1993) 70,000 miles, METALIC SILVER, TARGA TOP TWIN TURBO, SERIES 3 , SUADE INTERIOR TRIM, P/STEERING, E/WINDOWS, E/MIRRORS, CLIMATE, CRUISE, ELECTRIC SEATS, ... Full Details Stock List Buckinghamshire Crest Cars £1,995 NISSAN 300 ZX 3.0 V6 TWIN TURBO MANUAL  (1995) 75,000 miles, 3 Doors, Manual 5 speed, Coupe, Petrol, Black. Camblet replaced at 57,000 miles, FACELIFT model, 18" MEISTER Racing alloys, sports lowered suspension, MOMO steering, ... Full Details Stock List West Yorkshire WRC Sales Ltd £6,495 300zx abflug pentroof widebody 1997 4th month lowmileage.  (1997) 45,000 miles, 367 Dyno at IA MotorSport..This was done with a boost leak at the time sonearer 380.No Udgraded turbos or Forged engine parts..That I know ... PX: 306 tdi or try me... Full Details london Premium Advert £7,000 7 days Nissan 300 Zx Twin Turbo 2 by 2 T-Bar Roof  (1996) Be the first UK registered owner of this recently Japanese imported car. VG30 engine, facelift model with full service history. One previous Owner from Japan. Fully loaded, ... Full Details Stock List Birmingham Motors By Choice Ltd £3,999 NISSAN 300 ZX 3.0 V6 TARGA TWIN TURBO AUTO  (1989) 57,538 miles, YELLOW Coupe. 3000cc Automatic. Yellow, MOT-11-2011. ABS, Adjustable seats, Adjustable steering column/wheel, Air conditioning, Alloy wheels, Anti theft system, ... Full Details Stock List Swansea Top Grade Imports ltd £3,999 TWIN TURBO MANUAL UK CAR CAMBELT CLUTCH CHANGED  (1994) 100,000KM, RARE UK CAR, FULL NISSAN SERVICE HISTORY, LOVELY ENGINE, LOADS OF RECIETS, CLUTCH CHANGED, CAMBELT CHANGED LOADS OF HISTORY, DRIVES EXCELLENT MUST BE SEEN P/X ... Full Details Stock List HIGH WYCOMBE M40/ JUNCTION 4 HEATHROW HIGH PERFORMANCE UK £2,495 Nissan 300 ZX Targa  (1987) 115,000 miles, Red Coupe. 3.0 litre, Manual. E Registration, Alloy Wheels, Central Locking, Cruise Control, Electric Mirrors, Electric Windows, Power Steering, Radio ... Full Details Stock List Kingston Hollyfield Cars £2,995 NISSAN 300 ZX 3.0 V6 TARGA 3DR AUTO - TURBO - 1 OWNER FROM NEW  (1993) 60,000 miles, RED Coupe. 3000cc Automatic. Red, 1 Owner. A VERY RARE OPPORTUNITY TO ACQUIRE A 1 OWNER FROM NEW , NO PREVIOUS OWNERS , UK SUPPLIED NISSAN 300 ZX TWIN TURBO TARGA ... Full Details Stock List Tyne-Wear Northsands Specialist Vehicles £6,990 NISSAN 300 ZX 3.0 V6 TARGA 3DR AUTO TWIN TURBO UK SUPPLIED  (1993) 94,000 miles, BLUE Coupe. 3000cc Automatic. 2 Doors, Metallic Blue. BLACK HEATED ELECTRICALLY OPERATED SPORTS SEATS , TARGA GLASS REMOVEABLE ROOF , 17" ALLOY WHEELS , ABS, ... Full Details Stock List Tyne-Wear Northsands Specialist Vehicles £3,990 Nissan 300 ZX Twin Turbo (REDUCED £3500 CHRISTMAS OFFER)  (1990) :: SOLD VIA PISTONHEADS :: Premium Advert £3,850 Over 15 days Nissan 300 ZX TWIN TURBO  (2005) 55,500 miles, NISSAN 300ZX TWIN TURBO Z32 RECENT IMPORT FROM JAPAN 2005 MODEL WITH LEATHER TRIM , CLIMATE CONTROL AND AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION ALLOY WHEELS ELECTRIC MIRRORS, SUNROOF ... Full Details Stock List knocklyon road,dublin16 ireland knocklyon auto centre £3,000 NISSAN 300ZX TWIN TURBO MANUAL T-BAR  (1993) :: SOLD VIA PISTONHEADS :: Premium Advert £4,500 Over 15 days Standard Adverts OPEN FOR CASH OFFERS  (1994) 71 miles, Start off by sayin that some clown has gon e into drivers door causing damage to door muppets out there lol.OK HERE IS MY 1994 SERIES 2 NISSAN FAIRLADY (MUCH BETTER MODEL) 71 ... PX: TRY ME GOLFS GTI/TDI MK 4 Full Details west midlands £2,000 12 hours 300ZX TWIN TURBO AUTO  (1991) 60,000 miles, Well, where to start.....It has 18" alloys fitted - 235's on the front & 265's on the rear. all tyres have loads of tread left on them.It runs ... Full Details Hampshire £3,500 5 days previous12next Term & Conditions Hosted by Carrenza Copyright © PistonHeads.com ® 1998-2010 || || [?] Subscribe To This Site Nissan Sunny ZX Coupe 1987-1991 Click on any image in the gallery below for a larger picture Nissan Sunny ZX Coupe (1987-1991) Country Japan Top Speed (mph) 125 0-60mph 8.5 1/4 mile 17 BHP @rpm 120 @6600rpm Torque lbft @rpm 102 @5200rpm BHP per ton 110 Engine capacity CC/CU 1598/97 Engine type Straight 4 Fuel Injection Aspiration Normal Compression Ratio 10.0:1 Valve Type/No DOHC 16 Transmission (manual/auto) Manual No of speeds 5 Wheels driven FWD Brakes F/R Disc/Disc No. of Seats 2+2 Length (in) 166.7 Width (in) 65.6 Height (in) 52.2 Curb Weight (lbs) 2390 Additional Info: Different names and versions depending which country they were sold in. A non ZX 8 valve 1.6SGX Coupe was also built. Also there's a 1.8 ZX Coupe with around 129bhp. A few have had turbo conversions. Click Here To See A Guide To Car Abbreviations! Standard 1.8 Sunny ZX Coupe Once you have played the video you can click on the little box in the bottom right hand corner of the player, then on the pop up box to see other related videos Note: sometimes it doesn't show the related videos? Return To The Main Performance Cars Page Return To Performance Car Guide Homepage From Nissan Sunny ZX Coupe 1987-1991