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The Most Iconic Nissan 300s Ever to Hit the Road

Jimmy adeel June 21, 2025

The Nissan 300 series stands as a cornerstone in the evolution of Japanese sports cars, blending performance, style, and engineering innovation. From the heart-pounding turbocharged engines to the sleek, aerodynamic silhouettes, these vehicles have captivated drivers for decades. Enthusiasts and collectors are drawn to the 300’s unique combination of speed and reliability, ensuring its place among the legends of the road. Whether seen tearing up the track or displayed at car shows, the 300 series continues to inspire awe and admiration across generations.

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1. 1984 Nissan 300ZX (Z31)

The 1984 Nissan 300ZX (Z31) marked a pivotal moment for the Z-car lineage, introducing turbocharged performance and groundbreaking digital displays. As the first 300ZX, the Z31 set itself apart from other 1980s sports cars with its bold angles, pop-up headlights, and futuristic interior technology. It delivered a blend of comfort and agility rarely seen in its class. According to MotorTrend, this model truly encapsulated the spirit of the era while charting a new path for Nissan’s sports car future.

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2. 1987 Nissan 300ZX Shiro Special

The 1987 Nissan 300ZX Shiro Special is a coveted gem among Z-car enthusiasts. Distinguished by its crisp white paint, exclusive Recaro seats, and specially tuned suspension, the Shiro Special offered a more focused, performance-oriented driving experience. With only 1,002 units produced, its rarity has made it a highly sought-after collector’s item. As Hemmings notes, the Shiro Special stands as a testament to Nissan’s dedication to creating memorable, limited-edition sports cars.

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3. 1990 Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo (Z32)

The 1990 Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo (Z32) redefined the sports car landscape with its potent twin-turbocharged V6, sophisticated chassis, and assertive design. This model set a new benchmark for performance, rivaling icons like the Toyota Supra in both speed and handling prowess. Its advanced technology, including four-wheel steering and available electronic aids, gave it an edge over many competitors. According to Car and Driver, the Z32 was a true game-changer in the 1990s sports car arena.

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4. 1994 Nissan 300ZX Convertible

The 1994 Nissan 300ZX Convertible brought a refreshing twist to the Z32 lineup, blending spirited performance with open-air freedom. Equipped with luxury features and refined styling, it stood out among its peers, offering a more leisurely yet exhilarating driving experience. Compared to other convertibles of the era, it delivered both comfort and the unmistakable Z-car attitude. As noted by Hagerty, the convertible added a touch of sophistication and broadened the appeal of the 300ZX family.

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5. 1995 Nissan 300ZX 2+2

The 1995 Nissan 300ZX 2+2 offered a perfect blend of performance and practicality, thanks to its extended wheelbase and rear seating. This configuration made it a compelling choice for those seeking grand touring comfort without sacrificing the Z’s renowned driving dynamics. Compared to other GT cars of the 1990s, it struck a balance between daily usability and sports car excitement. As Classic.com highlights, the 2+2 remains a favorite among enthusiasts who need versatility.

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6. 1986 Nissan 300ZX Turbo Anniversary Edition

The 1986 Nissan 300ZX Turbo Anniversary Edition was crafted to celebrate Nissan’s 50th anniversary, making it a standout in the 300 series legacy. Adorned with distinctive gold badges, a futuristic digital dashboard, and a suite of exclusive features, this edition quickly became a collector’s dream. As noted by Nissan Global, its blend of style and technology captured the spirit of the era while honoring Nissan’s heritage.

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7. 1996 Nissan 300ZX (Final Year US Model)

The 1996 Nissan 300ZX represented the final chapter for the Z32 in the US, symbolizing the end of a legendary era. This last model year featured refined touches and was produced in limited numbers, increasing its allure among collectors. As Road & Track explains, the 1996 model stood as a fitting farewell, showcasing the peak of Nissan’s engineering before the Z-car temporarily exited the American market.

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8. Nissan 300ZX IMSA GTP Race Car

The Nissan 300ZX IMSA GTP Race Car is a motorsport icon, renowned for its dominance in the IMSA GTP series. Engineered with advanced aerodynamics and boasting immense turbocharged power, this machine shattered records and captured championship titles, elevating Nissan’s reputation on the global racing stage. Its aggressive silhouette and high-tech engineering set new standards in endurance racing. As Motorsport.com highlights, the IMSA GTP’s legacy continues to inspire racing fans and automotive engineers alike.

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9. Nissan 300ZX JGTC/Le Mans

The Nissan 300ZX JGTC/Le Mans variants demonstrated the model’s endurance racing pedigree on both Japanese and international circuits. Specially modified for the JGTC and the grueling 24 Hours of Le Mans, these cars boasted powerful engines and advanced chassis setups, holding their own against fierce Japanese rivals like the Toyota Supra and Mazda RX-7. According to Supercars.net, their performances cemented the 300ZX’s reputation as a true contender in the world of endurance motorsport.

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10. 1985 Nissan 300ZX 2+2

The 1985 Nissan 300ZX 2+2 introduced a practical twist to the Z-car legacy by offering rear seating without sacrificing its sporty character. This early adoption of the 2+2 configuration attracted buyers looking for extra versatility, making the car suitable for small families or those needing more space. As Edmunds notes, the 1985 model struck a unique balance between everyday usability and the pure driving pleasure expected from a Z.

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11. 1989 Nissan 300ZX Z31 Turbo

The 1989 Nissan 300ZX Z31 Turbo marked the final and most refined chapter of the first-generation 300ZX. Featuring advanced turbocharged engineering and improved handling characteristics, this model delivered peak performance for the Z31 lineup. Its evolution over the years culminated in a car that appealed to enthusiasts seeking both speed and reliability. According to AutoTrader Classics, the 1989 Z31 Turbo remains a standout for those who appreciate the origins of modern Japanese sports cars.

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12. Nissan Fairlady Z 300ZX (Japan Domestic Market)

The Nissan Fairlady Z 300ZX for the Japan Domestic Market (JDM) boasted unique trims and features that set it apart from export versions. Japanese buyers enjoyed exclusive options such as special interior materials, limited-edition colors, and performance tweaks tailored for local regulations. Compared to their overseas counterparts, JDM models often had more advanced technology or subtle styling differences. According to Japanese Nostalgic Car, these distinctions make the Fairlady Z highly desirable among global collectors.

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13. Nissan 300ZR (Japan Only)

The Nissan 300ZR stands out as a rare, Japan-only variant that prioritized lightweight construction and nimble handling. Unlike its turbocharged siblings, the 300ZR featured a naturally aspirated engine, delivering a purer, more responsive driving experience. This unique focus made it especially appealing to enthusiasts who valued agility over outright power. As highlighted by the Nissan Heritage Collection, the 300ZR remains a fascinating chapter in the Z-series story, cherished by collectors in the know.

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14. 1991 Nissan 300ZX Slicktop

The 1991 Nissan 300ZX Slicktop has earned a cult following among driving enthusiasts and purists. This hardtop model, lacking the T-top roof, offered a stiffer chassis and reduced weight—key advantages for those seeking the sharpest performance. Its rarity and pure driving dynamics make it a true enthusiast’s choice. As Grassroots Motorsports notes, the slicktop remains one of the most sought-after Z32 variants today.

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15. Nissan 300ZX Custom and Tuner Icons

Beyond factory legends, the Nissan 300ZX achieved global fame in the tuning world, inspiring wild creations from renowned shops like JUN and Veilside. These custom builds have pushed the Z’s performance and style to extraordinary heights, earning the 300ZX a place alongside other tuner icons such as the Toyota Supra and Mazda RX-7. As Super Street Online highlights, the 300ZX’s enduring appeal continues to captivate car enthusiasts and creators.

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