When it comes to JDM cars, and Nissan more specifically, legendary models such as pretty much any generation GTR, the 350Z or 370Z, or maybe even many Silvia variants, are usually what first come to mind. However, there’s another vehicle that emerged from Nissan’s factories nearly 40 years ago, and even though many car enthusiasts might have at least heard of it, it still remains under the JDM radar.
We’re talking about the twin-turbo Nissan 300ZX, a masterpiece of machinery that rapidly reached the pinnacle of sports car performance at its time, blessed with great power and better looks, aside from also being highly customizable.
The 300ZX is the predecessor of the legendary 350Z and 370Z models, but it might be even better than its younger brothers when fully analyzed. It boasts immense mechanical prowess in a highly desirable and advanced package, and even today, driving one would undoubtedly prove to be extremely enjoyable. Let’s get into the details.
Two 300ZX Generations: Z31 & Z32
The first gen 300ZX was classified as the Z31 after its initial release in 1983, and it underwent a 6-year production span during which nearly 330,000 units of the model were sold mostly to foreign markets. Its most performant version came in the form of a 3.0-liter turbo V6 with 229 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. The RWD 4-seater coupe could run from 0 to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds on its way to a top speed of 155 miles per hour.
In 1989, Nissan unveiled the second generation Z32 300ZX, with a redesigned exterior and new engine options. Even though only around 164,000 units were ever produced, it comfortably surpassed its predecessor in every aspect and went on to become one of the most regarded sports coupes of its time.
Performance Specs Of The 300ZX Twin-Turbo
Two power options were made available by Nissan on the second-gen 300ZX. Both featured a 3.0-liter V6 with variable valve timing and dual-overhead cams, but one added two turbos and dual intercoolers to the mix for a total power output of 300 horsepower and 283 pound-feet of torque. The twin-turbo, which could be paired to a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, could burst from rest to 60 mph in around 5.6 seconds and reach a maximum speed of 155 mph, though several tests claimed that it could actually reach 60 mph in just 5.0 seconds. That’s a scarily good performance for a vehicle that’s nearly four decades old.
The Nissan 300ZX Twin-Turbo Boasts Awesome Driving Dynamics
Power and good looks weren’t the only things that the second-gen 300ZX brought to the table, as fortunately, immensely capable handling capabilities were also a part of the package. The Twin-Turbo Nissan 300ZX was equipped with four-wheel steering in an RWD configuration, which was pretty much unheard of in most cars at the time, and in reality, it's still quite a rare feature even today. Factor in a relatively lightweight body and ultra-precise steering, and you had yourself a vehicle with impeccable handling, comparable to the likes of Porsche without a hint of exaggeration.
The only noteworthy downsides regarding the twin-turbo 300ZX's performance were turbo lag issues early on in the rev range and brake fade. However, it should be mentioned that when ripe, the brakes on the 300ZX were more than capable.
The 300ZX Is Gorgeous Inside And Out
The second generation Nisan 300ZX is, in all honesty, immensely handsome, no matter which perspective you chose to look at it from. The newly designed body featured sleek rectangular headlights up front on a sloping nose that fed into a muscular and aggressive bumper. The curvy side view showcased the 300ZX's elegant stance and aerodynamic form, leading to a winged rear with beautiful dual exhausts and a protruding bumper, finished off with an iconic 4-line taillight setup.
The cabin inside the 300ZX was upholstered and trimmed with feel-good materials everywhere, the seats were comfortable and grippy, and the driver seating position was perfect. Tech was as good as you could ask for at the time, with cockpit controls that were comfortably accessible and easy to use.
To summarize, the second-generation Z32 Nissan twin-turbo 300ZX was the best sports car you could buy at the time and at its price point. It was practically flawless in every single important aspect both in terms of drivability and comfort, proving to be one of Nissan’s most well-executed vehicles ever. With a starting price of $36,000 in 1991 (equal to $78,000 today), the 300ZX wasn’t cheap by any means, but it was more than worth every penny.