Nissan Fairlady: The Icon Lives On
The Nissan Fairlady, also known globally as the Nissan Z series, is one of the most iconic sports cars ever produced. Since its debut in 1969 as the Datsun 240Z in America and the Nissan Fairlady Z in Japan, the Z series has delivered decades of performance, style, and driving excitement. Over the years, each generation of the Fairlady Z has evolved with improvements in power, design, and technology, cementing the Fairlady Z as a symbol of Nissan’s commitment to thrilling sports cars.
First Generation (S30 – 1969)
The inaugural Nissan Z (S30) was a 2-door, 2-seat coupe powered by a 2.0-liter inline-6 L20A engine producing 97 kW (130 hp) at 6,000 rpm. Buyers could choose between a 5-speed manual, 4-speed manual, or 3-speed automatic transmission. The first Fairlady could accelerate from 0–100 kph in 17.1 seconds, offering an engaging driving experience for its era.
Second Generation (S130 – 1978)
In 1978, the Datsun/Nissan 280ZX arrived with a more luxurious interior and upgraded chassis. New features included leather seats, climate control, gold alloy wheels, and two-toned paint. The S130 was powered by a 2.8-liter L28E inline 6-cylinder engine with Bosch fuel injection, producing 99 kW (133 hp). In 1980, T-tops were introduced, and a turbocharged L28ET engine was added in 1981, producing 134 kW (180 hp) and achieving 0–100 kph in 7.4 seconds, showcasing Nissan’s growing performance capabilities.
Third and Fourth Generations (Z31/Z32 – 1983 & 1989)
The Z31 (300ZX) marked Nissan’s transition from Datsun branding to Nissan. It came with a naturally aspirated VG30E or turbocharged VG30ET V6, delivering 120–150 kW (161–201 hp), depending on the market. The Z31 was lauded for combining performance with luxury features.
In 1989, the Z32 300ZX was launched with a more aggressive design, twin-turbocharged engines, and dual overhead cams (DOHC) with VVT. The turbo model produced 220 kW (300 hp), achieving 0–100 kph in 6 seconds, and continued the 2+2 seating layout, with the first convertible option appearing in 1993.
Fifth Generation (350Z – 2002)
After a brief hiatus, Nissan revitalized the Z series with the Fairlady 350Z, a sleek 2-seater roadster. Powered by the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6, it initially produced 214 kW (287 hp), later upgraded to 220 kW (300 hp) in 2005. The 350Z offered both a 6-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic, along with hardtop and convertible models. Premium trims included Bose audio, leather seats, satellite navigation, and VDC electronic stability control, while the Nismo editions added Brembo brakes, sports-tuned exhausts, and performance wheels.
Sixth Generation (370Z – 2009)
The Fairlady 370Z (Z34) debuted in December 2008 with a contemporary design and improved aesthetics. Equipped with the 3.7-liter VQ37VHR V6, the Z34 produced 245 kW (328 hp), with some models offering up to 261 kW (350 hp). Power was delivered via a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. The manual came with Nissan’s SynchroRev Match technology, which automatically blipped the throttle during downshifts, simulating a heel-and-toe technique. The Z34 could accelerate from 0–97 kph (0–60 mph) in 4.7 seconds, offering sharp handling and exhilarating performance.
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Legacy and Impact
The Nissan Fairlady Z series is a testament to Nissan’s dedication to sports car engineering. Over its six generations, the Fairlady Z has combined speed, handling, design, and luxury, remaining a beloved model among enthusiasts worldwide. From the classic 240Z to the modern 370Z, each iteration has balanced performance and innovation, ensuring the Z series remains a benchmark in the sports car market.
Whether as a collector’s item or a high-performance roadster, the Nissan Fairlady continues to capture the hearts of drivers with its timeless style, powerful engines, and thrilling driving experience. Browse our NISSAN FAIRLADY stocklist and find your perfect match.