This car was renowned for returning the 240Z’s best design details and performance features.Īfter several editions of the 350Z, the sixth-generation Nissan Z-car arrived in 2009. Receiving rave reviews, the fifth-generation Nissan Z closely resembled the original. from 1997 through 2002 until returning with the all-new 350Z in 2003. Nissan paused production on Z-cars for the U.S. The 1990 300ZX (Z32) was the fourth-generation Z-car, and additional styling changes included a wider width and longer wheelbase. Its body featured fewer curves and more squared lines. The third-generation Z-car debuted in 1984 as the 300ZX (Z31). The 280ZX was launched in 1978 as a 1979 model, followed by the 280ZX Turbo in 1981. Each new car series added new features and design modifications.Īdvertised as “the legendary Z Car reborn,” the second generation Z-car featured significant design and performance changes, and wasn’t as successful as past models. It was replaced with the 260Z in 1974, followed by the 280Z in 1975.

The 240Z sold more than 160,000 units in its four years of production in the U.S., MotorTrend reports. It featured a long nose, fastback rear hatch, and an affordable price tag, according to Car and Driver. (Nissan has since dropped the Datsun name.) The Fairlady Z began production in 1969 and was sold in Japan before being renamed the Datsun 240Z for the U.S. K” and “the father of the Z,” had the vision to create a car that would be fun to drive, affordable, and appealing to Americans, reports TopSpeed. Nissan USA’s former president Yutaka Katayama, known as “Mr.

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