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Nissan 300ZX

The Nissan 300ZX is a sports car from Nissan’s Z-car line, sold in two main generations: the Z31 (1983–1989) and the Z32 (1989–2000 in Japan, 1989–1996 in the United States).

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Nissan 300ZX is a sports car from Nissan’s Z-car line, sold in two main generations: the Z31 (1983–1989) and the Z32 (1989–2000 in Japan, 1989–1996 in the United States). It was offered in coupe and targa-top body styles and used front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layouts. The Z32 generation is especially known for its 3.0-litre V6 engines, including a twin-turbo version rated at 300 horsepower in U.S. specification.

History

The 300ZX name was applied to Nissan’s export-market Z sports cars, with the Z31 generation arriving in the 1980s and the Z32 launching in 1989. The car was sold as the Fairlady Z in Japan and as the 300ZX in markets such as the United States.

Z32 generation

The Z32 was a lower, wider redesign that offered two-seater and 2+2 body styles. It is best known for its advanced packaging, targa-top roof panels in many markets, and its performance-focused chassis tuning.

Engines and performance

The Z32 used a 3.0-litre VG-series V6 with DOHC and 24 valves, available in naturally aspirated and twin-turbo forms. U.S. twin-turbo models produced 300 hp and 283 lb-ft, while naturally aspirated versions were rated at 222 hp and 198 lb-ft.

Chassis and handling

The Z32 employed a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout with multilink suspension front and rear. Performance-oriented variants also used Super HICAS rear-wheel steering.

Key facts

The 300ZX name belongs to Nissan’s long-running Z sports car family.
The Z32 generation debuted in 1989 and was a major redesign from the earlier Z31.
The Z32 used a 3.0-litre V6 with dual overhead camshafts and 24 valves.
U.S.-market twin-turbo versions were rated at 300 hp and 283 lb-ft of torque.
The Z32 featured multilink suspension and Super HICAS rear steering on some versions.

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Canadian context

The 300ZX was sold in Canada as part of Nissan’s North American market presence, and it remains a notable Japanese sports car in Canadian enthusiast and collector circles. Canadian readers often encounter the model through the U.S.-market Z32 specifications and used-car market listings.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Nissan 300ZX?

It is a Nissan sports car from the Z-car family, sold in multiple generations and known for rear-wheel drive and V6 power.

When was the Z32 300ZX introduced?

The Z32 generation was released in 1989.

What engine did the 300ZX use?

The Z32 used a 3.0-litre DOHC V6, with naturally aspirated and twin-turbo versions.

How much power did the twin-turbo 300ZX make?

U.S.-spec Z32 twin-turbo models were rated at 300 horsepower and 283 lb-ft of torque.

Was the 300ZX available with a manual transmission?

Yes. The Z32 was offered with a five-speed manual transmission, with an automatic also available.

What is the difference between Fairlady Z and 300ZX?

Fairlady Z is the Japanese market name, while 300ZX was used in export markets such as the United States.

References

Grassroots Motorsports — https://grassrootsmotorsports.com/articles/nissan-300zx-buyers-guide/
Supports: Z32 drivetrain layout, engine, power, transmission, suspension and performance figures
Nissan Global — https://www.nissan-global.com/EN/HERITAGE_COLLECTION/nissan_300ZX_ttop.html
Supports: Z32 heritage information, release year, and U.S.-spec 1992 300ZX example
Car and Driver — https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15139914/1990-nissan-300zx-road-test/
Supports: Z32 launch context, engine details, body styles, and performance testing
Wikipedia — https://www.fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nissan_300ZX
Supports: Model name usage across Japan and export markets, and production date ranges