When it comes to legendary Japanese sports cars, the term "Z-machine"causes nostalgia and respect among car enthusiasts. This is not just a name - it is an entire era in the automotive industry associated with Nissan and its iconic series models Fairlady Z (or Datsun Z outside Japan). But what exactly is behind the letter "Z"? Why have these cars become style icons, and why do their names cause such a stir in the secondary market?
In this article we will analyze in detail which cars belong to the “Z-line”, how their names are deciphered (for example, 350Z, 370Z, 400Z), and why these cars are still relevant despite their age. You will learn how to distinguish the original Z-machine from the replica, what technical features make them unique, and whether it is worth buying such a car today. We’ll also deal with common misconceptions: for example, why Nissan Z sometimes confused with Toyota Supra or Mazda RX-7, although these are completely different philosophies.
What is a Z-machine: history of the name and brand
The term "Z-machine» appeared thanks to internal classification Nissan. In the 1960s the company developed a platform S30, which became the basis for the first generation of sports cars in the series Fairlady Z. The letter "Z" originally stood for project code (similar to Skyline GT-R, where the “R” stood for “racing”), but over time it became an independent brand.
Interestingly, outside of Japan these cars were sold under the brand name Datsun (until 1984) with the prefix “240Z”, “260Z”, “280Z”, etc. - the numbers indicated engine displacement in cubic inches (for example, 240Z = 2.4 liters). After rebranding to Nissan in the 1980s the name changed to 300ZX, and later - on 350Z, 370Z and modern Z (RZ34).
- 📜 1969: debut Datsun 240Z (S30) - the first “Z-car” to compete Porsche 911.
- 🔥 1978: exit 280ZX with a turbo engine - the peak of popularity in the USA.
- 💥 1989: legendary Nissan 300ZX (Z32) with twin turbo and 300 hp - the pinnacle of technology of that time.
- 🔄 2002: revival of the line with 350Z (Z33) after a 7-year break.
⚠️ Attention: On the secondary market there are often “Z-cars” with handicraft modified indices (for example, 240Z, converted to 280ZX). Check the VIN and documentation - original models have unique chassis numbers starting withS30,S130,Z31etc.
All models of Z-cars: from classic to modern
For more than 50 years of history, the line Z-machines has 7 main generations. Below is a table with the key characteristics of each model so that you can quickly figure out which “Z” is right for you.
| Model | Years of production | Engine (base) | Power, hp | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Datsun 240Z (S30) | 1969–1973 | 2.4 L L24 I6 | 151 | First “Z”, light body (950 kg), independent suspension |
| Nissan 300ZX (Z32) | 1989–1996 | 3.0 L VG30DETT V6 twin-turbo | 300 | Supercar of its time, 4WD option, active aerodynamics |
| Nissan 350Z (Z33) | 2002–2008 | 3.5 L VQ35DE V6 | 287–306 | Revival of the line, rear-wheel drive, aggressive design |
| Nissan 370Z (Z34) | 2008–2020 | 3.7 L VQ37VHR V6 | 332 | 7-speed automatic transmission, launch control system, lightweight body |
| Nissan Z (RZ34) | 2022–present | 3.0 L VR30DDTT V6 twin-turbo | 400 | Modern interpretation, hybrid option, digital instrument panel |
Stands apart Nissan 240SX (S13/S14) - it is often mistakenly referred to as the “Z-line”, but it is a separate model built on the platform Silvia. Main difference: 240SX has an engine KA24DE (2.4 L, 155 hp), while real Zs were always equipped with inline sixes or V6s.
How to distinguish an original Z-machine from a fake?
Due to high popularity Z-machines often become the target of fraud: broken VIN codes, “assembled” cars from several donors, or even full-fledged replicas based on other models (for example, Nissan 200SX). Here are the key features of the original:
- 🔍 VIN code: must start with
JN1(Japan) or1N4(USA). For 300ZX (Z32) —JN1RZorJN1HZ. - 🛠️ Engine: The original Zs never had 4-cylinder engines. Exception - Nissan Z (2022) with
VR30DDTT. - 📏 Body panels: classic 240Z/280Z the doors and hood have unique stampings that cannot be reproduced by hand.
- 📄 Documentation: original cars came with a “passport” Nissan Heritage Certificate (can be requested from your dealer).
Critical moment: on the secondary market, up to 30% of advertisements for the sale of “Z-cars” are converted Nissan 280ZX with motors from Infiniti Q45 or even Toyota 1JZ. Such cars may look like the original, but their real cost is 2-3 times lower.
☑️ Checking the Z-machine before purchasing
Technical features: why are Z-machines so appreciated?
Main advantage Z-machines is a balanced design, where every element is designed for dynamic driving. For example, Nissan 300ZX (Z32) had:
- 🔧 Multi-Link suspension - a rare solution for sports cars of the 1990s, providing perfect contact with the road.
- 🌀 HICAS system - rear steering, which improved handling at high speeds.
- ⚡ Twin turbocharging with sequential activation of turbines (small for low speeds, large for high speeds).
Modern Nissan Z (RZ34) retained the philosophy of its predecessors, but received current technologies:
VR30DDTT (3.0 L twin-turbo), 6-speed manual transmission with carbon fiber synchronizers and system Launch Control for perfect starts. At the same time, the weight is distributed along the axles in a proportion of 55:45 - almost like Porsche 911.
Why is the 300ZX (Z32) called the “Japanese Ferrari”?
In the 1990s Nissan 300ZX with the Twin Turbo option it accelerated to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds - faster than Ferrari 348 (5.6 s) of that time. Moreover, its price was 3 times lower. In addition, the Z32 had all-wheel drive (optional), active aerodynamics and an interior with leather trim and a digital instrument panel - a luxury for a Japanese car of those years.
However, there are also disadvantages. For example, 350Z and 370Z criticized for:
- 🔊 Excessive noise in the cabin (sound insulation level like a racing car).
- 🛢️ High fuel consumption (15–18 l/100 km in the city for 370Z).
- 💰 Expensive maintenance (for example, replacing the clutch with 370Z costs 80–120 thousand rubles).
How much does a Z-car cost in 2026?
Prices for Z-machines vary from 300 thousand rubles for a “project” to 10 million for collectible items. Below are the current prices on the Russian secondary market (data as of June 2026):
| Model | Condition | Price, rub. | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Datsun 240Z (1970–1973) | Restored | 3 500 000 – 6 000 000 | Original parts increase the cost by 2 times |
| Nissan 300ZX (Z32, 1990–1996) | Good (turbo) | 1 800 000 – 3 200 000 | Prices are rising due to demand for JDM classics |
| Nissan 350Z (2005–2008) | Satisfactory | 900 000 – 1 500 000 | Often found after an accident |
| Nissan 370Z (2015–2020) | Excellent (Nismo) | 2 800 000 – 4 500 000 | Nismo version with 350 hp 30% more expensive |
Important nuance: prices for 300ZX (Z32) have grown by 40% in the last 3 years due to the trend for retro sports cars. At the same time 350Z and 370Z become cheaper due to high maintenance costs. For example, MTPL insurance for 370Z (250 hp) costs 20–25 thousand rubles per year.
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Nissan Z (RZ34) check whether the car is listed on lease or loan. In 2023, there were several cases of fraud with the new “Z”, where sellers hid the encumbrance.
Before purchasing a classic Z machine (S30, Z31, Z32), be sure to check the availability of spare parts. For example, turbines for 300ZX Twin Turbo (Garrett T25/T28) cost from 80 thousand rubles per set, and original bumpers for 240Z - up to 200 thousand rubles.
Is it legal to import Z-cars into Russia?
Yes, but with reservations. Import rules Z-machines depend on their age:
- 📅 Over 30 years old (for example, Datsun 240Z): can be imported as a “retro car” with simplified customs clearance (duty 0–5%).
- 📅 From 10 to 30 years (for example, 300ZX Z32): standard procedure with a duty of 20–30% of the cost.
- 📅 Newer than 10 years (for example, Nissan Z 2022+): a certificate of conformity is required (the cost of registration is from 300 thousand rubles).
Features:
- 🔧 For 300ZX and older often required headlight replacement to the European standard (other lamps are used in the USA and Japan).
- 📄 For a retro car you need to register PTS marked “collectible”to avoid problems with technical inspection.
- 💸 Luxury tax (3 million+ rubles) does not apply to cars older than 20 years.
When importing from Japan, we recommend using the services of trusted brokers (for example, JDM Expo or CarFromJapan), since independent customs clearance is fraught with fines for incorrect declaration (for example, for underestimating the value).
Common problems with Z-machines and how to avoid them
Even legendary cars have weaknesses. Here are typical “diseases” Z-machines by generation:
| Model | Problem | Repair cost, rub. | How to prevent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 240Z–280Z (S30) | Corrosion of floor and side members | 150 000 – 400 000 | Annual anticorrosive treatment, checking drainage holes |
| 300ZX (Z32) | Turbine overheating, oil leak | 200 000 – 500 000 | Oil change every 5 thousand km, cooling after trips |
| 350Z (Z33) | Wear of gearbox synchronizers | 120 000 – 250 000 | Smooth shifts, avoid “ragged” driving style |
| 370Z (Z34) | Cracks in the manifold, leaking seals | 80 000 – 180 000 | Regular exhaust system diagnostics |
Particular attention should be paid Nissan 300ZX (Z32) with the system HICAS (rear steering). If the hydraulic pump or electronics fail, the system locks the rear wheels, making the car uncontrollable. Repairs cost 100–200 thousand rubles, so before purchasing, be sure to check:
- 🔋 The operation of the hydraulic booster (are there any fluid leaks).
- 📊 Errors in the control unit (code
P1605indicates problems with HICAS). - 🔄 Smooth turning of the steering wheel at low speeds (jerking is a sign of malfunction).
If you buy 300ZX Twin Turbo, be sure to check the compression in the cylinders. Normal for motor VG30DETT - 12–14 bar. If it is below 10 bar, the engine requires major overhaul (cost - from 600 thousand rubles).
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about Z-machines
Can I put an Infiniti engine in a Nissan 350Z?
Yes, but with reservations. Popular swap - VQ35HR (3.5 L, 307 hp) from Infiniti G35. It is compatible with the box 350Z, but you will need:
- ECU firmware (cost ~50 thousand rubles).
- Replacement of the flywheel and clutch (another ~80 thousand rubles).
- Exhaust system modification.
The final price of the project is 200–300 thousand rubles, but the increase in power will be only 20–30 hp. More often, such a swap is done to increase the resource, and not for tuning.
What kind of oil to use in Nissan 370Z?
Manufacturer recommends 5W-30 with permission API SN or ILSAC GF-5. Optimal options:
- Mobil 1 Extended Performance 5W-30 (synthetics, ~4,500 rubles/5 l).
- Motul 8100 X-Cess 5W-30 (for high loads, ~5,000 rub/5 l).
Replacement interval - every 7,500 km (despite the 15 thousand km limit). Motor VQ37VHR is sensitive to the quality of the oil, and saving here leads to ring sticking.
How much horsepower does the Nissan Z (2022) really have?
Officially Nissan Z (RZ34) has 400 hp, but dyno tests show 360–380 hp on wheels (which corresponds to ~420–440 hp at the flywheel, taking into account losses). The difference is due to:
- Conservative factory ECU settings.
- Restrictions on environmental standards (in the USA and Europe, power is reduced to comply
Euro 6d).
After flashing (for example, from COBB Tuning) power increases to 450–470 hp without upgrading turbines.
Is it possible to drive a Z-car in winter?
Technically possible, but not recommended. Problems:
- 🚗 Low ground clearance (110–120 mm) - risk of damage to the front spoiler.
- ❄️ Rear wheel drive — without winter tires and ESP, the car is uncontrollable on ice.
- 🔥 Temperature sensitivity: motors
VQandVRrequire long warm-up (at least 5 minutes).
If there is no alternative, install:
- Winter tires Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 (size 245/40 R19).
- Crankcase protection (from 15 thousand rubles).
- Additional battery (eg Optima YellowTop).
Where to buy spare parts for classic Z-cars?
Main sources:
- 🌍 Foreign sites:
- Z1 Motorsports (USA, specializes in Z32/Z33).
- Black Dragon Auto (Japan, original parts for S30).
- 🏬 Russian stores:
- JDM Parts Russia (Moscow, warehouse stocks for Z32/Z33).
- Retro-JDM (St. Petersburg, specialize in retro models).
- 🔧 Used market:
- Telegram groups:
@Z_Cars_Russia,@JDM_Parts_RU. - Japanese Auctions (via Buyee or ZenMarket).
- Telegram groups:
The average delivery time for spare parts from Japan is 2-4 weeks, from the USA - 4-6 weeks. For urgent repairs, look for analogues from Infiniti (many parts are interchangeable).