Table of Contents

Origins and Development

The Nissan Z-car, also known as the Fairlady Z in Japan, was conceived in the late 1960s as Nissan’s response to the growing demand for affordable sports cars. Nissan’s engineers aimed to create a vehicle that combined performance, style, and practicality.

Design and Features

The first-generation Z-car (S30) debuted in 1969 and quickly gained popularity for its distinctive design and impressive capabilities. Its sleek lines, long hood, and fastback roof gave it a sporty and aerodynamic appearance.

The S30 was powered by a 2.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 130 horsepower. The engine’s high-revving nature and smooth power delivery made it a pleasure to drive.

Engine and Performance

The Z-car’s performance was further enhanced by its lightweight construction, precise handling, and responsive steering. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 8 seconds and had a top speed of over 120 mph.

Variants and Evolution

Throughout its production run, the S30 underwent several revisions and updates. These included:

Year	Variant	Engine	Horsepower
1969	240Z	2.0L I6	130 hp
1971	240Z 2+2	2.0L I6	130 hp
1973	260Z	2.6L I6	162 hp
1974	260Z 2+2	2.6L I6	162 hp
1975	280Z	2.8L I6	170 hp
1978	280ZX	2.8L I6	170 hp

Legacy and Impact

The Nissan first-generation Z-car (S30) remains an iconic sports car to this day. Its combination of performance, style, and affordability made it a huge success, selling over 500,000 units worldwide.

The S30 paved the way for subsequent generations of the Z-car and solidified Nissan’s reputation as a manufacturer of driver-oriented vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the difference between a 240Z and a 260Z?
A: The 260Z features a larger 2.6-liter engine with more horsepower.

Q: What is the horsepower of the 280Z?
A: The 280Z produces 170 horsepower.

Q: How much is a first-generation Z-car worth today?
A: The value varies depending on the condition, mileage, and variant, but well-maintained examples can fetch upwards of $50,000.

Q: What were the colors available for the S30?
A: The S30 came in a variety of colors, including:

Red
White
Blue
Green
Silver
Yellow

Q: What is the S30’s 0-60 time?
A: The S30 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 8 seconds.

References:

Nissan S30

The Nissan S30 is a compact sports car produced by Nissan from 1969 to 1978. It was the first generation of the Nissan Z-car and was available in both coupe and 2+2 hatchback configurations. The S30 was powered by a variety of inline-six engines, and was offered with a four-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmission.

The S30 was a critical and commercial success, and helped to establish Nissan as a major player in the sports car market. It was replaced by the S130 Z-car in 1979.

1970-1978 Nissan Z-Car (S30)

The 1970-1978 Nissan Z-car (S30) was a sports car produced by Nissan. With its sleek lines, smooth handling, and strong performance, it was a beloved car among enthusiasts.

Design and Features:

Striking design with a long hood and fastback roofline
Front-mounted, inline-6 engine with a choice of 2.4- or 2.8-liter displacement
Rear-wheel drive with a four-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmission
Sporty cockpit with bucket seats, a center console, and a tachometer

Performance:

Capable of reaching 60 mph in under 8 seconds
Top speed of over 120 mph
Excellent handling and road grip thanks to its independent suspension and disc brakes

Variants:

240Z (1970-1973)
260Z (1974-1976)
280Z (1975-1978)

Legacy:

The S30 Z-car was a huge commercial success, with over 550,000 units sold worldwide. It played a crucial role in establishing Nissan as a global automaker and left a lasting impact on the sports car scene. Its combination of performance, affordability, and style made it a true icon of the 1970s.

Datsun 240Z

The Datsun 240Z, introduced in 1969, was a revolutionary sports car that became an instant icon. Its combination of sleek design, affordable price, and impressive performance made it a beloved classic.

Design:
Designed by Albrecht Goertz, the 240Z featured a long, fastback body with a distinctive "coke bottle" shape. Its curved lines, aggressive stance, and hidden headlights gave it a sporty and timeless aesthetic.

Performance:
Powered by a 2.4-liter inline-6 engine, the 240Z produced around 150 horsepower. Its lightweight construction and nimble handling made it agile and responsive, providing an exhilarating driving experience.

Success:
The Datsun 240Z was an overwhelming commercial success, selling over 150,000 units worldwide. It became a symbol of Japanese automotive excellence and paved the way for subsequent Z-car generations. Its legacy as an affordable, fun-to-drive sports car continues to inspire enthusiasts today.

Datsun 260Z

The Datsun 260Z, also known as the Nissan S30 Fairlady Z in Japan, was a sports car produced by Nissan from 1973 to 1978. It was the successor to the popular 240Z and featured a more powerful 2.6L inline-six engine, redesigned bodywork, and improved suspension.

The 260Z was available in both coupe and 2+2 hatchback configurations. It was offered with a choice of a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic transmission. The car’s performance was impressive for its time, with a top speed of 135 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds.

The 260Z was a commercial success, selling over 400,000 units worldwide. It helped to establish Datsun as a reputable automaker and paved the way for future generations of the Z-car.

Datsun 280Z

The Datsun 280Z is a sports car manufactured by Nissan from 1975 to 1978. It was the second generation of the Datsun Z-car, and was primarily sold in the North American market. The 280Z featured a 2.8-liter inline-six engine, a five-speed manual transmission, and a rear-wheel drive layout. It was known for its stylish design, strong performance, and handling that was considered exceptional for its time. The 280Z was a popular and influential car, and helped to establish Datsun as a respected sports car manufacturer.

2-Door Nissan Z-Car (S30)

The 2-door Nissan Z-car (S30) marked a significant milestone for the Japanese automaker. Introduced in the mid-1970s, it combined classic sports car styling with modern engineering and performance. Key features of the S30 included its sleek lines, retractable headlamps, powerful inline-6 engine, and rear-wheel drive configuration. The Z-car quickly became a success, establishing Nissan as a credible manufacturer of sporty and affordable vehicles. Its popularity paved the way for subsequent generations of the Z-car, helping to cement Nissan’s reputation as a maker of enthusiast-oriented automobiles.

4-seater Nissan Z-car (S30)

The 4-seater Nissan Z-car (S30) was introduced in 1970 and quickly became a popular sports car. It was available in both coupe and 2+2 configurations, and featured a 2.4-liter inline-6 engine. The S30 was a critical and commercial success, and helped to establish Nissan as a major player in the sports car market.

Nissan Z-Car (S30) Restoration

The Nissan Z-Car (S30) is a classic sports car that has captured the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide. Many of these vehicles have fallen into disrepair over time, making restoration essential for preserving their legacy.

Key Restoration Steps:

Body and Paint: Restoring the body involves repairing rust, dents, and dings. The original paint is removed and repainted to match the factory specifications.
Engine and Driveline: The engine, transmission, and driveline components are inspected and rebuilt or replaced as necessary. This ensures optimal performance and reliability.
Suspension and Brakes: The suspension system and brakes are upgraded or reconditioned to improve handling and braking capabilities.
Interior: The interior is restored to its original condition, including seats, upholstery, and dashboard. Modern amenities can be added while preserving the classic character.
Wheels and Tires: The original wheels and tires are replaced with high-performance options that enhance the car’s appearance and performance.

Considerations:

Budget: Restoring a Z-Car can be an expensive endeavor. Determining a budget upfront is crucial to ensure the project is feasible.
Availability of Parts: Some parts for the S30 may be difficult to find, so it’s important to research availability before starting the restoration.
Expertise: While some tasks can be DIY, complex repairs may require professional assistance.

Conclusion:
Restoring a Nissan Z-Car (S30) can be a rewarding experience that preserves a piece of automotive history. By carefully following the key steps and considering the associated expenses and challenges, enthusiasts can bring these classic cars back to their former glory.

Nissan Z-car (S30) Racing

The Nissan Z-car (S30) made its racing debut in 1970 with the creation of the Z432R model. This race-prepared version of the Z-car was developed specifically for Group 4 racing, and it quickly became a formidable competitor on the track. The Z432R was powered by a 2.0-liter inline-six engine that produced 180 horsepower, and it featured a lightweight body, upgraded suspension, and aerodynamic modifications.

The Z-car enjoyed considerable success in racing throughout the 1970s, winning numerous championships in Group 4 and Group 5 categories. It was particularly dominant in Japanese touring car racing, where it won the Japan Touring Car Championship (JTCC) in 1973 and 1974. The Z-car also competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1972 and 1973, achieving a best overall finish of 10th place.

The racing success of the S30 Z-car helped to establish Nissan’s reputation as a builder of performance cars, and it also contributed to the popularity of the Z-car among sports car enthusiasts.

Nissan Z-car (S30) Tuning

The Nissan S30 Z-car offers a wide range of tuning options for enthusiasts looking to enhance its performance and aesthetics.

Engine Modifications:

Turbocharging or supercharging: Boosting the power output of the L-series engine significantly.
Cylinder head porting and polishing: Improving airflow and performance.
Camshaft upgrades: Altering valve timing and duration to increase power and torque.
Fuel injection: Replacing the original carburetors with electronic fuel injection for improved fuel efficiency and performance.

Suspension Enhancements:

Lowering springs and shocks: Reducing body roll and improving handling.
Sway bars: Stiffening the suspension and reducing body flex.
Strut tower bars: Reinforcing the suspension and increasing rigidity.
Performance tires: Enhancing grip and handling.

Brakes:

Upgraded brake pads and rotors: Increasing stopping power.
Stainless steel brake lines: Reducing brake fade and improving responsiveness.
Big brake kits: Installing larger brakes for even greater stopping ability.

Exterior Modifications:

Body kits: Altering the car’s aerodynamic profile and appearance.
Spoilers and wings: Reducing drag and improving downforce.
Custom wheels and tires: Enhancing aesthetics and handling.
Rear diffusers: Redirecting airflow and improving rear-end stability.

Interior Enhancements:

Performance seats: Providing additional support and comfort.
Steering wheel upgrades: Enhancing grip and responsiveness.
Gauges and displays: Monitoring engine performance and vehicle data.
Custom audio systems: Upgrading the sound quality and functionality.

Nissan Z-car (S30) Modifications

Engine:

Increased displacement (3.0L)
Turbocharging or supercharging
Performance camshafts
Camshaft regrinding to increase duration and lift
Cold air intake
Performance exhaust system
Fuel system upgrades (injector size, fuel pump, fuel lines)

Suspension and Handling:

Coilover suspension
Adjustable sway bars
Performance shock absorbers
Upgraded brakes
Strut tower braces
Frame reinforcements

Exterior:

Body kits (front and rear bumpers, side skirts, spoilers)
Custom paint jobs
Wider wheels and tires

Interior:

Upgraded seats (racing or sport seats)
Performance steering wheel
Auxiliary gauges (boost, oil pressure, temperature)
Custom audio system

Other Modifications:

Differential upgrades (limited slip differential)
Transmission upgrades (shorter final drive ratio, stronger clutch or transmission)
Weight reduction (carbon fiber, fiberglass components)
Engine tuning and dyno tuning for optimal performance

Nissan Z-car (S30) Parts

The Nissan Z-car (S30) was produced from 1969 to 1978 and was available in both coupe and 2+2 configurations. The S30 featured a 2.4-liter inline-six engine and a rear-wheel-drive layout. It was a popular sports car and is still sought after by enthusiasts today.

There are a number of aftermarket parts available for the S30, which can be used to improve performance, handling, and appearance. Some of the most popular aftermarket parts include:

Engine performance parts: These parts can be used to increase horsepower and torque, and improve acceleration and top speed.
Suspension parts: These parts can be used to improve handling and stability, and reduce body roll.
Brake parts: These parts can be used to improve stopping power and reduce fade.
Wheel and tire packages: These packages can be used to improve grip and handling, and give the S30 a more aggressive look.
Body kits: These kits can be used to change the appearance of the S30, and make it more unique.

Aftermarket parts can be a great way to improve the performance, handling, and appearance of your Nissan Z-car (S30). However, it is important to do your research and choose parts that are compatible with your vehicle and driving style.