Letter logo Z on the hood or radiator grill is not such a rare symbol in the automotive world. However, many drivers still confuse brands that use this element in their design. Someone takes it wrong Mazda for Nissan, and the emblem Infiniti - for the sign of premium tuning. In this article we will look at all car brands with the Z emblem, their history, key models and nuances that will help you avoid making mistakes when buying or servicing a car.

The "Z" symbol in the logo is often associated with dynamism, speed and innovation. It is not surprising that it was chosen by manufacturers seeking to emphasize the sporty nature of their cars or the technological content. But how to distinguish the original emblem from a fake? And why do some brands abandon the letter "Z" in modern models? The answers are below.

Spoiler alert: not all “Zs” on cars mean they belong to the same brand. For example, Nissan 370Z and Mazda RX-7 - these are completely different cars with different philosophies, although with similar symbols on the body. And the emblem Infiniti In general, it is stylized as a road going into the distance, and not just a letter.

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1. Nissan: the legendary Z-series and more

When it comes to letters Z by car, the first thing I remember is Nissan is a Japanese giant whose sports line Z-cars has become a cult. The story began in 1969 with the model Datsun 240Z, which conquered America with its accessibility and dynamics. Today the "Z" emblem is on the hood Nissan 370Z (2009–2020) and the latest Nissan Z (RZ34), released in 2022.

However, not everyone knows that the letter "Z" in the logo Nissan does not always mean belonging to a sports series. For example, in some markets the "Z" emblem was used to identify special versions of sedans or crossovers (e.g. Nissan Murano Z51). It is important to check the VIN so as not to confuse the tuned car with the original Z-model.

  • 🚗 Iconic models: Datsun 240Z, 280ZX, 300ZX (Z32), 350Z, 370Z
  • 🔧 Features: rear-wheel drive, powerful in-line 6-cylinder engines (in classic models), aggressive design
  • ⚠️ Pitfalls: high fuel consumption, difficulty in repairing turbocharged versions (for example, 300ZX Twin Turbo)

Important fact: Nissan has officially registered the letter "Z" as a trademark for cars in the US, so other brands cannot use it in a similar context without risk of lawsuits.

📊 Which Nissan Z model do you consider the most legendary?
Datsun 240Z
Nissan 300ZX (Z32)
Nissan 350Z
Nissan 370Z
New Nissan Z (2022)

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2. Mazda: Z-emblem on rotary sports cars

If Nissan associated with the "Z" thanks to sports coupes, then Mazda used this letter to designate its rotary cars. Legendary Mazda RX-7 (especially in the back FD3S) had an emblem with a stylized letter "Z" on the rear of the body. What does "Z" have to do with it? The point is that the model index RX-7 often shortened to "RX7", and in Japanese tradition the number "7" is sometimes replaced by the letter "Z" (due to similarity in spelling).

Additionally, in some markets Mazda used the "Z" emblem for special versions of their cars, e.g. Mazda 3 MPS (Z-Sport). However, today the brand has largely abandoned this symbol, focusing on a logo in the form of a stylized "M" in an ovale.

  • 🔥 Rotary legends: Mazda RX-3, RX-7 (SA22C, FC3S, FD3S), RX-8
  • ⚙️ Technical tricks: Wankel engine (rotary piston), light weight, ideal weight distribution
  • 💸 Cost of ownership: high oil consumption, expensive repairs of a rotary engine (especially after 200 thousand km)
⚠️ Attention: When buying used Mazda RX-7 Be sure to check the compression in a rotary engine - this is a key indicator of its condition. Even a slight drop in compression can mean a quick overhaul costing from 300 thousand rubles.

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3. Infiniti: a premium brand with a hidden "Z"

Luxury division Nissan — brand Infiniti - also uses the letter "Z" in its logo, although this is not so obvious. Emblem Infiniti is a stylized road stretching into the distance, but if you look closely, you can see an inverted letter "Z" in its center. This design symbolizes endless striving forward and innovation.

Unlike Nissan, where "Z" denotes sports models, y Infiniti the letter is not tied to a specific line. It is part of the corporate identity of all cars of the brand - from crossovers QX50 to sedans Q50. Interestingly, in Japan Infiniti sold under the name Nissan Infiniti, and the logo may differ slightly from the global version.

Model Years of production Features Average price on the secondary market (2026)
Infiniti G35 2002–2007 3.5L V6 (280 hp), rear-wheel drive, reliable automatic transmission 800–1,200 thousand rubles.
Infiniti FX35/FX45 2003–2013 Crossover with a coupe-like body, 300+ hp. 1,000–1,800 thousand rubles.
Infiniti Q50 (3.7) 2014–2022 3.7L V6 (330 hp), Direct Adaptive Steering 1,500–2,500 thousand rubles.
Infiniti Q60 2017–present Coupe based on Q50, 3.0L twin-turbo V6 (400 hp) 2,800–4,000 thousand rubles.
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When purchasing a used Infiniti, pay attention to the system's service history. CVT (variator). Many models were equipped with just such a gearbox, which requires an oil change every 60 thousand km, otherwise the risk of breakdown increases significantly.

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4. Other brands with "Z" in their logo or name

Besides Nissan, Mazda and Infiniti, the letter “Z” is also used by other automakers in one form or another. Here are the most interesting examples:

  • 🚘 Zastava (Yugoslavia/Serbia): The brand, known in the USSR as Zastava, produced models Zastava 750 (licensed Fiat 600) and Zastava 101 ("Yugo"). The emblem featured a stylized letter "Z" in a red ovale.
  • ⚡ Zenos (UK): Niche manufacturer of light sports cars (e.g. Zenos E10). The logo is a large letter "Z" with a horizontal line.
  • 🏎️ Zagato (Italy):Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin etc. Their emblem is a stylized “Z” with wings.
  • 🔋 Zeekr (China): Electric vehicle sub-brand Geely, using the letter "Z" in the logo (for example, model Zeekr 001).

Also worth mentioning tuning studio, which add a "Z" to the body as part of modification packages. For example, a company Zele (specializes in BMW) or Zender (German tuning for Porsche). In such cases, the "Z" has no relation to the factory emblem.

⚠️ Attention: On the secondary market, you often find cars with “Z” stickers on the body, which sellers pass off as original sports versions. Always check your VIN against the manufacturer's database to avoid being scammed. For example, real Nissan 370Z has "Z34" in the body index.

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5. How to distinguish the original Z-emblem from a fake?

Counterfeit "Z" emblems are common, especially in the custom car market. Here are the key signs that will help you avoid being scammed:

☑️ Signs of the original emblem

Done: 0 / 4

If in doubt, use the following verification methods:

  1. Take a photo of the emblem and compare it with the official images on the manufacturer’s website.
  2. Check your car's VIN through services like CarVertical or AutoCheck — the original equipment will be indicated there.
  3. Inspect the place where the emblem is attached: if there are traces of glue or scratches from the previous badge, this is a reason to be wary.
What to do if you bought a car with a fake emblem?

If you have already become a victim of fraud, you can file a claim for a refund under Article 18 of the Law on the Protection of Consumer Rights (if purchased from a dealer) or try to negotiate compensation with the seller. In court, examination of the emblem and VIN code will be key evidence.

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6. History and symbolism of the letter "Z" in the auto industry

Why did the letter "Z" become so popular among automakers? There are several versions:

  1. Speed and dynamics: In English slang, "zee" is associated with the word "zoom" (to rush). This was ideal for sports cars.
  2. Japanese influence: In Japan, the letter "Z" (or number "7") is considered lucky, which played a role in choosing the name for Datsun 240Z.
  3. Uniqueness: In the 1960s and 1970s, few brands used letters in their logos, so the "Z" made cars stand out from the competition.

I wonder what Nissan initially wanted to call my sports model "Fairlady Z" (by analogy with Datsun Fairlady), but simply chose "240Z" for export to the US to avoid confusion. But Mazda has never officially explained the Z's connection to rotary engines - it's more of a fan theory.

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The letter "Z" has become a symbol of sportiness and innovation in the auto industry, but its meaning differs from brand to brand: for Nissan it is a line designation, for Mazda it is short for "7", and for Infiniti it is part of an abstract logo.

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7. Outlook: Will “Z” remain in car logos?

In the era of electric vehicles and minimalist design, many brands are abandoning complex logos in favor of simple symbols. What awaits the letter "Z"?

  • 🔋 Nissan: New model Nissan Z (2022) proved that the brand is not going to abandon the legendary symbol. However, in electric vehicles (e.g. Nissan Ariya) "Z" is not used.
  • ⚡ Mazda: After the cessation of production of rotary engines, the brand moved away from associations with “Z”. Today the emphasis is on Skyactiv technologies.
  • 🌍 Infiniti: In 2021, the brand announced a transition to electric vehicles, and the new logo became more minimalistic, but the “Z” motif is still visible.

Experts predict that "Z" will remain in the auto industry, but its importance will be eroded. For example, Chinese brands like Zeekr or Zotye can popularize the letter in new contexts not related to sports heritage.

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FAQ: Frequently asked questions about cars with the Z emblem

❓ Why is there no “Z” emblem on my Nissan even though it is a sports model?

Not all sporty Nissans have the letter "Z" on the body. For example, Nissan GT-R belongs to the line Skyline and uses your logo. But Nissan 370Z or 240Z must have a "Z" on the hood or rear. Also, the emblem could have been removed by the previous owner or replaced with a tuned one.

❓ Is it possible to put a “Z” emblem on your car if it is not original?

Technically yes, but there are some nuances:

  • If you just put a sticker on it, it's legal, but it can be confusing to other drivers.
  • If you replace the factory emblem with a “Z” from another brand (for example, put a badge Nissan Z on Toyota), this can be regarded as fraud when selling a car.
  • In some countries (eg Germany), modifications to the vehicle's appearance require registration on the registration certificate.
❓ What is the rarest car with the “Z” emblem?

One of the rarest and most expensive cars - Nissan 400Z Concept (1999), released in a single copy. Also highly valued:

  • Mazda RX-7 Spirit R (2002, limited edition of 1,500 pieces)
  • Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo (Z32) in original "Midnight Purple" paint
  • Infiniti Q45 (Y33) with "Sport Z" package

Prices for these models at auctions reach 5–10 million rubles.

❓ Why did Mazda stop using "Z" in logos?

Main reasons:

  1. Completion of production of rotary engines (latest model - RX-8 in 2012).
  2. Rebranding and transition to technology Skyactiv, where the emphasis is on performance rather than a sporty image.
  3. The desire to distance oneself from associations with the unreliability of rotary engines (especially after problems with RX-8).

However, in 2023 there are rumors of the return of the rotary engine in a hybrid setup, so the Z could return.

❓ Where can I buy an original “Z” emblem for restoration?

Original emblems are sold:

  • From official dealers (for example, Nissan or Infiniti). Price: 3–10 thousand rubles.
  • On specialized sites like eBay, CarID or JDMBuysell (for Japanese cars).
  • Classic car parts stores (eg. Black Dragon Auto Parts for Datsun Z).

Important: Check the emblem catalog number against the VIN code of your car to avoid purchasing the wrong part.