1969-1979 • 1980-1989 • 1990-1996
NISSAN HISTORY
Datsun - Nissan
Z Models
Z History
 
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www.zhome.com
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Z CLUBS
www.atozx.com
www.aus300zx.com
www.ttzd.com
www.300zx.org.uk
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Z History 1980-1989

1980
Due to emission regulation horsepower was reduced to 132. T-tops initially became available on GL coupe models. Leather upholstery was optional. 3,000 10 year anniversary editions models were offered featuring: 2-tone paint, gold tone alloy wheels, headlamp washers, and automatic climate control.
1981
The first turbocharged Z was introduced called the datsun 280zx turbo, producing 180 HP with a 3-speed automatic transmission in coupe models only. Turbo models changed the suspension, came with larger wheels and tires, boost gauge replace the ammeter, and an oil temp gauge was combined with the oil pressure gauge. Engine and 3-way catalytic converter raise the horsepower to 145HP in the non-turbo editions.
1982
The popular turbocharged motor became avaivable in the datsun 2+2 Model 280ZX. New type of hoods introduce which recieved NACA scoops. Power rack and pinion steering became a standard option, which previously was only offered in the Turbo Edition. Bumpers was painted to match body with intergrated overriders became standard option. A new interior feature introduced: Ugraded upholstery, leather seating with suede accents, voice warning system, and a digital AM/FM cassette radio.
1983
Suspension package which was offered only on turbo model was now installed on all models. A leather and digital option offered leather trim, digital dash, automatic climate controls, electric mirror defogging system, automatic rear defogger and bronze window tinting.
1984

3rd generation Z Car intorduced...the nissan 300zx. Powered with a V-6 motor producing 160 HP, and turbo was an option, which produced 200HP. Nissan 300zx turbo model only offered on coupe editions, and were electronically controlled. 5-speed and either 3 or 4 speed automatic transmissions were available. Turbo model had a small scoop located on the driveside of the hood, and had 5 bolt pattern wheels, while the non-turbo model still only offered a 4 bolt wheel patterns. Digital dashs avaiable, while base models retained the analog gauges. GS was the only model available in the U.S.






5,000. 50th year Anniversary Editions which features a turbocharged engine, fender flares, ground effects, with silver and black 2-tone paint. During 1984, it was then the Datsun name was dropped, and replaced by "Nissan"




1985
T-tops became a standard option. 2-tone paint available in the Nissan Turbo z car models, which also featured pin-striping and body colored front and rear bumpers. Leather trim option was separated from the Electronic Equipment Package.
1986
The Nissan / Datsun 300zx Turbo models lost the hood scoop. T-tops became optional. Body colored side molding introduced. Intergrated fender flares were added, which added a total of 2 inches to each side. The rocker panel extensions and chin spoiler became a standard option. A 3rd brake light was added, which was a high mounted light.
1987
Aerodynamics played a big part this year. The body of Nissan 300zx changed significantly. Minor engine, steering and suspension cheanges were made too. Driving lights were moved under the front bumper.
1988
The Turbo and Non-Turbo motors were increased by 5 HP. LE edition (Limited Edition) model featured European front air dam, shorter springs, and the engine governor was disconnected.
1989
Only minor trim changes were made and two new exterior paint colors were available.


1969-1979 • 1980-1989 • 1990-1996