The Nissan 370Z Coupe is a fun to drive 2-seater performance sports car. After making its debut for the 2009 model year, the car became popular with those who appreciate a well-crafted automobile and a need for speed. While the 370Z may be a relatively new model, its legacy goes back nearly half a century, when the company was known as Datsun, and the first Z-Cars hit the streets in Japan and the United States. Stay tuned to learn more.
How the Nissan Z Has Evolved Since 1964
In 1966, Nissan Motors envisioned a new, affordable sports car that could be sold internationally. The result was the 1969 Datsun 240Z. Powered by a 2.4L inline 6-cylinder engine, the 240Z was an instant hit, selling 45,000 units by the end of 1971.
Following the 240Z was the 260Z in 1974, with a slightly larger 2.6L engine. The name was changed once again in 1975 with the release of the 280Z, which featured a slightly more powerful engine. The second generation of the Z-Car was released in 1978 and quickly became one of the most popular vehicles ever.
The Iconic 280ZX
The 1979 Datsun 280ZX was a complete redesign from all previous models. The car featured a groundbreaking exterior design, with a combination of sharp angles and smooth curves. A softer suspension made for a more comfortable ride, while inside there was better sound insulation and, unique for its time, a high-end audio system. The new 280ZX proved immensely popular, selling a record 86,007 units its first year.
1980 saw the introduction of T-tops to the 280ZX, and the following year a turbocharged engine was offered. The car received a facelift in 1982, gaining new alloy wheels and revised pinstripe style tail lights. Although 1983 was the final year for the 280ZX, you can still find many on the streets thanks to the work of enthusiasts who love these iconic cars.
The Nissan Z-Car would continue to evolve, with the 300ZX in the 80s and 2001’s 350Z, to the 370Z available today. We welcome you to visit Asheboro Nissan in North Carolina, take a 370Z for a drive, and experience five decades of excitement.