Nissan Z: a complete history of generations of the legendary sports car from the 240Z to the modern Z34

Nissan Z is not just a car, but an entire era in the history of the Japanese automobile industry. Over the more than 50 years of the line's existence, these cars have managed to be both affordable sports cars for the masses, and high-tech supercars with turbo engines, and retro-styled modern coupes. Today Nissan Z remains one of the most recognizable brands in the world, uniting fans of drive, design and engineering solutions.

In this article we will look at all generations Nissan Z - from the first Fairlady Z (S30) 1969 to current Z34 (400Z) 2022. You will learn about their technical features, design solutions, weak points and why each model has become a cult favorite. And if you are planning a purchase, we will help you decide which generation is right for you.

1. First generation: Nissan Fairlady Z / Datsun 240Z (S30, 1969–1978)

Debut Datsun 240Z in 1969 it became a revolution: the Japanese offered the world an affordable sports car with the characteristics of European competitors like Porsche 911 or Jaguar E-Type, but at a price 2–3 times lower. The model was developed under the guidance Yutaka Katayama - a legendary engineer who would later become president Nissan USA. His goal was simple: to create a car that combines reliability, dynamics and style.

Under the hood 240Z there was an in-line 6-cylinder engine L24 volume of 2.4 liters (151 hp), which accelerated the car to 100 km/h in 8 seconds - an impressive result for the late 60s. The body was lightweight thanks to the use of thin steel, and the independent front suspension and rear axle with leaf springs ensured excellent handling. The design in the style of “long hood - short rear” became a signature for all subsequent Z-cars.

• 🚗 Body: 2-door coupe (hardtop), later - targa (260Z 2+2)
• 🔧 Engine: L24 2.4L I6 (151 hp), later L26 2.6L and L28 2.8L
• 💨 Transmission: 4-st. Manual transmission or 3-speed Automatic transmission, rear wheel drive
• 🏆 Achievements: Victories in the Safari Rally, sales in the USA - more than 500,000 copies

⚠️ Attention: Early models 240Z suffer from body corrosion, especially in the area of the rear wheel arches and sills. When purchasing, be sure to check the condition of the metal using a thickness gauge or on a lift.

Interesting fact: in Japan the model was sold as Fairlady Z, and was exported as Datsun 240Z/260Z/280Z (depending on market and engine). This was due to the marketing strategy - brand Datsun was better received abroad.

2. Second generation: 280Z/280ZX (S130, 1978–1983)

The change of generations has brought Nissan Z more modern design, but also new challenges. 280ZX became heavier than its predecessor (150–200 kg), which affected the dynamics, but it received improved interior trim and an optional T-bar (removable roof). The main innovation is electronic fuel injection instead of carburetors, which increased reliability and compliance with environmental standards.

Base motor L28E (2.8 l, 170 hp) equipped with an injection system Bosch L-Jetronic, and in 1981 a turbo version appeared 280ZX Turbo supercharged Garrett T3 and power 180 hp. This was the first serial Nissan with a turbo engine that accelerated the car to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds. However, the turbine added complexity to maintenance - its service life was only 80–100 thousand km.

Modification	Engine	Power	Acceleration 0–100 km/h	Features
280ZX (1978–1980)	L28E 2.8L I6	170 hp	8.2 s	Carburetor version for Japan, injection for the USA
280ZX Turbo (1981–1983)	L28ET 2.8L I6 Turbo	180 hp	7.4 s	The first turbo engine in the line, the weak point is the intercooler
280ZX 2+2	L28E	170 hp	8.5 s	Long wheelbase, child-friendly rear seats

Critics often criticized S130 for excessive "softness" compared to S30, but this is exactly what the generation did Z-car more comfortable for daily use. In 1983 the model was changed 300ZX (Z31), but 280ZX remains popular among restorers due to its easy tuning and availability of spare parts.

3. Third generation: 300ZX (Z31, 1983–1989) - transition to the electronic age

Nissan 300ZX (Z31) became the first Z-car, which completely abandoned the retro style in favor of futuristic 80s design. The car received a fully electronic injection system, a digital dashboard (optional), and even turbocharging with intercooler in the top version. Motor VG30E (3.0 l, V6) developed 160 hp. in naturally aspirated version and 200 hp. — in turbo.

But the main innovation was the suspension: in front - MacPherson, at the rear there is a multi-link with electronically controlled shock absorber stiffness (Nissan Super HICAS). It did 300ZX one of the most technologically advanced sports cars of its time. However, the electronics of those years were unreliable: sensors, control units and even digital instrumentation often failed.

• ⚡ Turbo version: VG30ET supercharged Garrett T25, pressure 0.7 bar
• 🎛️ Options: digital tidy, leather interior, climate control, cruise control
• 🚘 Body: coupe only (hardtop), option with T-bar
• 🔧 Weak points: turbine (lifetime 100–120 thousand km), electronics, roof corrosion

I wonder what Z31 became the first Nissan Z, officially sold in the USSR - several copies were imported through Intourist in the late 80s. Today, these cars are rare, and their prices on the secondary market start at $15,000 for a well-maintained example.

4. Fourth generation: 300ZX (Z32, 1989–2000) - the pinnacle of technology

Nissan 300ZX (Z32) - this is the apogee of engineering thought Nissan 90s The model received two engines: atmospheric VG30DE (222 hp) and twin turbo in version Twin Turbo (VG30DETT, 300 hp). The latter accelerated the car to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds - a record figure for Japanese sports cars of that time.

But the real revolution was the all-wheel drive system ATTESA E-TS (analogue Skyline GT-R), which distributed torque between the axles depending on conditions. Paired with Super HICAS (rear steering) did it Z32 incredibly stable on the track. However, the complexity of the design played a cruel joke: today it is impossible to find a working one 300ZX Twin Turbo with the original transmission it is almost impossible.

Modification	Engine	Power	Drive	Acceleration 0–100 km/h
300ZX NA	VG30DE 3.0L V6	222 hp	Rear	6.7 s
300ZX Twin Turbo	VG30DETT 3.0L V6	300 hp	Rear or full	5.0 s
300ZX 2+2	VG30DE	222 hp	Rear	7.0 s

⚠️ Attention: System ATTESA in 300ZX requires specialized maintenance. Poor quality oil in the transfer case or differentials leads to failure of clutches and control units. The cost of repairs may exceed $5,000.

Design Z32 developed Isao Sato - the same designer who will later create Nissan R390 GT1. The body became wider and lower, and the front optics with “transparent” headlights (without lenses) were innovative. Today 300ZX Twin Turbo - one of the most popular JDM sports cars among collectors, and prices for original copies exceeded $50,000.

5. Fifth generation: 350Z (Z33, 2002–2009) - return to roots

After a 2 year break Nissan revived the legend in 2002 under the name 350Z (Z33). The concept was simple: return to the idea of ​​a lightweight, rear-wheel drive sports car without unnecessary electronics. The design in the retro-futurism style referred to 240Z, but with modern features - round headlights, long hood, short rear.

There was a new engine under the hood VQ35DE (3.5 l, V6, 287–306 hp), which combined high power with reliability. Transmission: 6-speed manual or 5-speed. Automatic transmission. Important innovation: aluminum suspension, which reduced weight and improved handling. However, critics noted oversteer at the limit - 350Z demanded attention from the driver.

• 🔥 Engine: VQ35DE 3.5L V6 (287–306 hp), later VQ35HR (313 hp)
• 🏁 Transmission: 6-st. Manual transmission (the most reliable), 5-speed. Automatic transmission (weak point - torque converter)
• 💰 Prices: $15,000–$25,000 for well-maintained examples (2023)
• 🔧 Tuning: swaps are popular on VQ37VHR (370Z) or LR4 (GT-R)

350Z became the first Z-car, which was officially sold in Russia. The model was a success due to its price/power ratio, but suffered from low ground clearance (120 mm) and poor sound insulation. However, this generation is considered one of the most balanced for daily use.

6. Sixth generation: 370Z (Z34, 2009–2020) - the last of the classic Zs

Nissan 370Z (Z34) debuted in 2008 as evolution 350Z, but with a more aggressive design and improved dynamics. Motor VQ37VHR (3.7 l, 332 hp) received a variable valve timing system VVEL, which made it possible to increase power without loss of efficiency. Acceleration to 100 km/h took 5.1 seconds - the best result among atmospheric Z-cars.

In 2013, a version appeared Nismo with a 350 hp engine, improved suspension and aerodynamic body kit. And in 2019 - anniversary 50th Anniversary Edition with unique coloring Bayside Blue (reference to 240Z). However, by the end of production 370Z criticized for its outdated platform and lack of modern security systems (e.g. ADAS).

Modification	Engine	Power	Acceleration 0–100 km/h	Features
370Z (2009–2012)	VQ37VHR 3.7L V6	332 hp	5.1 s	7-st. Automatic transmission with paddle shifters
370Z Nismo (2013–2020)	VQ37VHR (modified)	350 hp	4.9 s	Sports suspension, body kit, 19" wheels
370Z Roadster	VQ37VHR	332 hp	5.3 s	Soft roof, weight +50 kg

Interesting fact: 370Z became the last Z-car with a classic layout (front engine, rear wheel drive) until the new generation arrives in 2022. Today this is one of the most affordable offers on the used sports car market - prices start at $20,000.

Why was the 370Z criticized for its design?

Many fans felt that the front end with a huge radiator grille ("snout") was too aggressive and did not correspond to the classic style Z-cars. In addition, the taillights are styled 350Z looked outdated compared to competitors like Toyota GT86 or Ford Mustang.

7. Seventh generation: Nissan Z (Z34, 2022–present) - new or retro?

New Nissan Z (Z34), presented in 2021, was a real event - for the first time in 12 years, the line was updated. The designers returned to the roots: a long hood, a short rear, round headlights (with LED filling), and the silhouette refers to 240Z And 300ZX. Under the hood - 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 VR30DDTT (400 hp), familiar from Infiniti Q60.

However, not everything is so rosy: the new Z built on a platform FM (like 370Z), which means legacy architecture. There is no all-wheel drive, a hybrid version or even modern driver assistance systems like ProPilot. But there is 6-speed manual (a rarity in the 2020s!) and a retro-style digital instrument panel.

• 🔥 Engine: VR30DDTT 3.0L V6 twin-turbo (400 hp, 475 Nm)
• 🚀 Transmission: 6-st. Manual transmission or 9-speed Automatic transmission
• 💰 Price: from $40,000 in the USA, in Russia - from 5 million rubles (2023)
• 🔧 Competitors: Toyota Supra (A90), Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro

⚠️ Attention: Motor VR30DDTT known for problems with turbines and cooling systems at high loads. When driving aggressively, it is recommended to install an additional intercooler and update the ECU firmware.

New Z is a tribute to the classics, but with a modern twist. It won’t set a record for dynamics or technology, but it will definitely appeal to those who appreciate drive, V6 sound and retro style. But whether he will be as long-lived as his predecessors - time will tell.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Z

Which generation of Nissan Z is the most reliable for daily use?

350Z (Z33) And 370Z (Z34) - the best options for everyday use. They are devoid of complex electronics (unlike 300ZX Z32), have reliable motors VQ and a simple rear-wheel drive platform. 350Z cheaper to maintain and 370Z - more dynamic.

Is the 300ZX Twin Turbo (Z32) worth buying today?

Only if you are prepared for high maintenance costs. Z32 is a collectible car with complex electronics (HICAS, ATTESA), which requires specialized repairs. Prices for original spare parts are high, and the service life of turbines and transmissions is limited. For investment, it is better to choose a vehicle with a mileage of up to 80,000 km.

Can you put a GT-R engine in a 350Z or 370Z?

Technically yes, but it is a complex and expensive project. Motor VR38DETT (from R35 GT-R) physically fits into the engine compartment Z33/Z34, but will require replacing the transmission, suspension, brakes and tuning the electronics. The cost of such a swap starts from $20,000.

Which Nissan Z is the rarest and most expensive?

Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo (Z32) in a coupe body with all-wheel drive (ATTESA) - the most sought after among collectors. Prices for original copies in good condition reach $80,000–$100,000. Early ones are also highly valued 240Z (S30) and anniversary versions 370Z 50th Anniversary.

Will there be a hybrid or electric version of the Nissan Z?

There are no official statements yet, but Nissan announced the electrification of the entire line by 2030. Probably the next generation Z will receive a hybrid power plant based on e-Power (like Ariya), but will retain rear-wheel drive and sporty character.