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Nissan 300ZX is the name of a sports car applied in non-Japanese markets to the "Z31" and "Z32" generations of the Nissan Z that were manufactured from 1983 to 2000. As with all other generations of this platform, these cars were marketed in the Japanese domestic market as the Fairlady Z.

Sold on the Japanese market exclusively at Nissan Bluebird Store locations from 1983 through 2000 and in the United States from 1984 through 1996, the 300ZX name followed the numerical convention initiated with the Nissan S30 that was marketed in the U.S. as the 240Z, as suggested by Yutaka Katayama. The "X" designation had debuted with the previous generation Z car, the 280ZX, to signify the presence of luxury and comfort oriented features. The Z31 model of 1983 through 1989 was the more popular model, with over 100,000 more units sold than the later Z32. The Z31 continued the old S30 market positioning as a mid-priced sports car, but the target market for the Z32 generation changed by having a higher price.

Car and Driver placed the Z32 on its Ten Best list for 7 consecutive years, each model year of its availability in the United States. Motor Trend awarded it as the 1990 Import Car of the Year. The Nissan 350Z, officially the Z33 generation Z-Car, succeeded the 300ZX in 2003. [Source: Wikipedia]
Through The  Years
  • 1990: The 300ZX debuts in early 1989 in both two-seater and 2+2 body styles. A Turbo model arrives later that year with a Super HICAS four-wheel steering system and 300 hp. All cars receive a three-spoke, non-airbag steering wheel.
  • 1991: A stripped-down version of the naturally aspirated two-seater without a T-top is offered. With its solid roof, the “slicktop” model is slightly lighter. Automatic climate control is made standard on almost all cars, and a small Nissan emblem is added between the headlights.
  • 1992: A driver-side airbag is made standard across the lineup, bringing with it a bulkier steering wheel. Turbo models get a standard power adjustable driver’s seat. Door panel and dashboard fabric is changed from cloth to a suede-like material.
  • 1993: The convertible model joins the lineup. Brake calipers are switched from aluminum to cast iron. Heat insulation is added to the oil lines of twin-turbo models.
  • 1994: A new rear spoiler design is available. The HICAS system switches from hydraulic to electric. Passenger-side airbags are now standard, and the seat belt anchor points move from the doors to the B-pillar.
  • 1995: The trim piece in the front valance is now body-colored. The windshield washer fluid reservoir is moved from the trunk to the engine bay. The limited-edition SMZ model goes on sale.
  • 1996: The diagnostic port is upgraded to OBD-II spec, and variable cam timing is eliminated. 1996 models were advertised at the same power ratings but are believed to make slightly less than in other years. A Commemorative Edition made up of 300 Z cars is launched.
Special Models
  • Slicktop A two-seater model without a T-top became the base car starting in 1991. It’s sought after for its rarity and slightly reduced weight.
  • SMZ Though it’s technically not an official Nissan model, the SMZ was sold through Nissan dealers with a factory warranty from 1995 to 1996. The Steve Millen-tuned Z was rated at 365 hp and 332 lb-ft, and sported a unique body kit, wheels, and numbered plaque. Only 104 examples were made.
  • Commemorative Edition The final run of U.S.-spec Z32s received special badging and a numbered plaque. Other than these details, however, the cars in the “Last 300” series were identical to other ‘96 models.

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Exterior

Running Gear