2010 Featured Marque - Datsun/Nissan Z

The Datsun 240Z was introduced in 1969 as a 1970 model. The engine was a derivation of the Datsun 1600. The Datsun 1600 engine was a copy of the 1960's six-cylinder Mercedes-Benz 220 engine, but with two less cylinders. The independent suspension and the rack-and-pinion steering added to its quick response, performance, and handling. The front disc brakes brought the car to a stop from high speeds in just seconds. With a price tag of just over $3,500, it cost much less than anything else on the market.

In 1984, Nissan became the new official name for Datsun. The name change was a result of Datsun produced Japanese fighter planes in WWII that were thought to be detrimental to their image in the ever expanding American market.

280ZX
In 1979, the second generation of the Z-car was introduced as the 280ZX. It was more refined and luxurious than the previous Z's. The formula was correct and it was named Motor Trends 'Import Car of the Year'. In 1980, over 500,000 cumulative American Z-cars had been sold. It had reached the half million sales mark faster than any other sport car. To add to the appeal and performance of the 280ZX, a turbocharged engine became available in 1981.

300ZX
In 1984 the third generation of the Z-car was introduced and was dubbed the 300ZX. It featured distinct styling and a new 3.0 liter V6 engine. The normal-aspirated engine produced 160 horsepower, while the turbocharged version offers 200 horsepower. Nissan introduced the fourth-generation Z-car in 1990. The new 300ZX featured improvements both mechanically and aesthetically.

Motor Trend awarded the 300ZXTT 'Import Car of the Year' and 'One of the Top Ten Performance Cars'. Automobile Magazine honored the car with 'Design of the Year' and was added to its 'All Stars' list. Not to be outdone, Road & Track named the car 'One of the Ten Best Cars in the World'. Car and Driver named it 'One of the Ten Best Cars'.

The year 1995 marked the 25th Anniversary of the Z-car. To commemorate this occasion, a limited edition was produced with the help of Steve Millen Sport Cars. In 1996, the production of the Z-car ceased in North America. Decreasing sales figures, and increased smog regulations and production costs were to blame.

350Z
In August of 2002, Nissan introduced the 350Z. This six-gear, two-seater was the fifth generation of the Z-car. Aesthetic and performance upgrades were available through Nismo, Nissan's motorsport and performance division. In 2004, a roadster option was offered. The roadster was available in two trim packages which included the Enthusiast and Touring editions. A special 35th Anniversary model was released in 2005 featuring twice the output of the original 1969 model. Sales figures, race results, and satisfied customers have proven this to be one of the best sports vehicles ever produced.

370Z
The 370 Z Coupe made its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 19, 2008. The all new Z car is the first full redesign of the iconic Nissan Z since its reintroduction as a 2003 model, and solidifies the strengths of its predecessor with an unmatched balance of performance, style and value.

Racing Heritage
The 240Z dominated the SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) C-class production category for 10 years ranging from 1970 through 1979. The Z-car competed in the IMSA (International Motor Sports Association) where it captured many victories, including the IMSA GTU title. In 1982, Devendorf and his Electromotive racing team won Datsun's first ever IMSA GTO championship. In 1985, Paul Newman set 10 track records in a 280ZX Turbo. In 1994, a race-modified Z car won the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours at Sebring. It also captured the GTS Class at the 24 Hours of LeMans, making it the only car ever to accomplish such a record within the same year.