Chassis Code Explained
| Segment | Meaning | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Z | Model series | Z — Fairlady Z / 300ZX platform |
| 31 | Generation code | 31 — third-generation Z (1983–1989) |
The Z31 introduced the VG-series V6 to the Z lineup (VG20ET, VG30E, VG30ET); the rare JDM 200ZR used the RB20DET inline-6. Exported as the Nissan 300ZX in most markets.
Editorial notes
Key Takeaways
The Fairlady Z ran from 1969 all the way to today across seven generations. The S30 is the analog one everybody wants. The S130 went softer and more grand-touring. The Z31 was the first Z without an inline-six. The Z32 is the technological halo with the VG30DETT twin-turbo. The Z33 350Z brought the Z back as an affordable sports car under Renault. The Z34 370Z sharpened it. And the RZ34 is the modern one with the VR30DDTT making 400 hp. Each Fairlady Z feels like a different idea of what a Z car should be.
- S30 (240Z/260Z/280Z) values hinge on rust and originality
- Z32 Twin Turbo is the best value-per-performance classic Z
- Z33/Z34 are trackable bargains; mods can hurt resale
- RZ34 demand is strong; markups easing but still common
- JDM specs (2+2, NA, auto) usually trade at discounts
- Documentation and stock parts matter most at resale
Technical Specifications
Four engine families ran across the Fairlady Z lineup. The L-series inline-six powered the S30 and S130 from 1969 to 1983. The VG-series V6 took over for the Z31 and Z32, and the VG30DETT twin-turbo made 280 PS in JDM trim and 300 hp in the US. The VQ-series naturally aspirated V6 ran the Z33 and Z34 from 2002 to 2020. The VR30DDTT twin-turbo V6 in the RZ34 makes 400 hp.
Engine Options
| Chassis | Engine | Displacement | Power — JDM | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Z31 | VG20ET | 2.0L | estimated | Turbo V6; JDM ratings vary by year |
| Z31 | RB20DET | 2.0L | estimated | 200ZR-only; limited production, spec varies |
| Z31 | VG30E | 3.0L | estimated | NA V6; market/year dependent output |
| Z31 | VG30ET | 3.0L | estimated | Single turbo V6; output varies by year |
Transmission Options
| Type | Ratios | Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-speed Manual | estimated | S30 early grades | Exact ratios vary by year/market |
| 5-speed Manual | estimated | S30/S130/Z31/Z32/Z33/Z34/RZ34 | Multiple FS5 variants; ratios vary |
| 3-speed Automatic | estimated | S30 late,S130 | JATCO 3AT; ratios vary by model |
| 4-speed Automatic | estimated | Z31,Z32 | 4AT varies by year; lockup by spec |
| 6-speed Manual | estimated | Z33,Z34,RZ34 | CD009/JK-series; ratios vary by year |
| 5-speed Automatic | estimated | Z33 | RE5R05A family; ratios vary |
| 7-speed Automatic | estimated | Z34 | JR710E; paddle shift on some grades |
| 9-speed Automatic | estimated | RZ34 | 9AT; NISMO uses 9AT only |
Livability
- Headroom
- 37.0"
- T-tops reduce space; helmet fit is tight
- Rear Seats
- 2+2 varies by gen
- Z32 2+2 usable for kids; Z33 none
- Cargo
- 7-10 cu ft
- Hatch is useful; strut brace/spare eats space
Variants & Trims
JDM Fairlady Z trim names don't line up with what was sold in the US. The S30 had the Fairlady Z 432 with the S20 twin-cam from the Hakosuka GT-R. The Z31 had a JDM-only 200ZR with the RB20DET inline-six. The Z32 had Version R and Version S grades that never crossed the Pacific. The Z33 and Z34 had Version T, Version ST, and Type C trims that don't map to US Touring or NISMO. If you're shopping a JDM import, learn the JDM grade hierarchy first.
| Generation | Trim | Engine | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Z31 (300ZX) | Fairlady Z 200Z (Z31) | VG20ET V6 Turbo | Turbo V6, 5MT/4AT, digital dash option |
| Z31 (300ZX) | Fairlady Z 200ZR (Z31) | RB20DET I6 Turbo | RB20DET, 5MT, rare homologation-style model |
| Z31 (300ZX) | Fairlady Z 200ZG (Z31) | VG20ET V6 Turbo | Aero nose, turbo, 5MT/4AT, sport appearance |
| Z31 (300ZX) | Fairlady Z 300ZX (Z31) | VG30E V6 | 3.0 NA V6, 5MT/4AT, touring equipment |
| Z31 (300ZX) | Fairlady Z 300ZX Turbo (Z31) | VG30ET V6 Turbo | Single turbo, 5MT/4AT, higher output |
| Z31 (300ZX) | Fairlady Z 2+2 (Z31) | VG30E/VG30ET | 2+2 body, 5MT/4AT, touring oriented |
Should You Buy a Nissan Fairlady Z Z31?
The Fairlady Z is the longest-running Japanese sports car nameplate that's still alive, and that shows in how the strengths and weaknesses have evolved across the generations. What you give up depends on which Z you're buying. The S30 trades modern usability for analog purity. The Z32 trades reliability for that 300 hp twin-turbo experience. The Z33 and Z34 trade exclusivity for daily-driver durability.
Why You'll Love It
- Broad price ladder From affordable Z33/Z34 to blue-chip S30, there’s a Z for most budgets.
- Strong enthusiast support Deep parts supply, clubs, and knowledge base; especially S30, Z32, Z33/34.
- Performance per dollar Z32 TT and Z33/Z34 deliver big capability vs many rivals at similar prices.
- Tunable modern platforms VQ and VR30 respond well to bolt-ons; big aftermarket for track and street.
- Iconic design lineage Recognizable styling across eras; S30 and Z32 have standout collector appeal.
- Manual gearbox availability Most generations offer 3-pedal options; manuals hold value and demand.
- Usable classics S130/Z31/Z32 can be driven regularly if maintained; good GT comfort.
Why You Might Not
- Rust risk on early cars S30/S130 rust repairs are expensive; poor metalwork can erase value quickly.
- Z32 complexity and labor TT packaging is tight; many jobs are engine-out or high labor hours.
- Modded-car value penalty Heavy mods, missing stock parts, or poor tunes often reduce resale and insurability.
- Aging electronics/trim Z31/Z32 interior plastics, digital clusters, and HVAC parts can be scarce.
- Manual clutch hydraulics Z34 CSC failures are common; preventive upgrades are recommended for buyers.
- Modern dealer pricing RZ34 can carry ADM/add-ons; buying smart matters more than spec.
- Insurance/parts on S30 Top S30s need agreed-value coverage; correct trim pieces can be pricey.
Who Should NOT Buy This
- Anyone needing reliable daily transport with no downtime
- Buyers without $2k-5k reserve for surprise repairs
- People who can’t DIY or lack a Z-experienced shop
- Owners in rust-belt areas without indoor storage
- Drivers who need real rear seats (most trims are 2-seat)
- Anyone who hates chasing water leaks and interior damp
- Emissions-strict states if modified or missing cats
- People expecting modern crash safety and driver assists
- Those who won’t follow strict cooling system upkeep
- Buyers who want cheap insurance and low fuel costs
- Anyone allergic to old-car electrical gremlins
- Track users without budget for cooling/brakes upgrades
- People who won’t verify timing service (Z32 critical)
- Anyone wanting quiet cabin and modern NVH comfort
- Buyers tempted by heavily-modded cars without receipts
- Short-trip drivers; condensation sludges neglected engines
- Owners without secure parking (theft/vandalism risk)
- People who need easy parts availability same-day locally
Common Issues & Solutions
Every Fairlady Z generation has its known weak points, and almost all of them are well-documented. The S30 rusts everywhere it can find moisture. The Z32 timing belt service is non-negotiable at 60,000 miles. The Z33 and Z34 burn oil by design, and treating that as a fault is the fastest way to ruin a VQ engine. None of these are deal breakers if you know about them going in.
| Issue | Cause | Solution | Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timing belt overdue (Z32) | Neglect; 60k/5yr interval ignored | Full belt kit: belt, idlers, tensioner, water pump | $1200-2500 |
| Overheating/heat soak | Old radiator, clogged fins, weak fans, air pockets | Radiator, hoses, thermostat, fan circuit service | $600-1800 |
| Rear main seal leak | Age; crankcase pressure; worn seal lip | Replace seal during clutch; inspect PCV system | $800-1800 |
| Valve cover gasket leaks | Hardened gaskets; warped covers; overtorque | New gaskets, grommets; reseal half-moons | $350-900 |
| Power steering leaks to alt | PS hose seep drips onto alternator (common) | Replace PS hoses; rebuild/replace alternator | $500-1400 |
| Fuel hose/fire risk (Z32) | Old ethanol-cracked hoses at plenum/firewall | Replace all fuel hoses with EFI-rated line/clamps | $250-900 |
| Injector failure (Z32) | Early-style injectors corrode; ethanol exposure | Upgrade to later injectors/rails; new connectors | $900-2200 |
| PTU/ignition dropout (Z32) | Early PTU overheats; brittle subharness | PTU upgrade kit + new subharness/grounds | $250-700 |
| Vacuum leaks/idle surge | Brittle hoses, cracked intake boots, IACV issues | Smoke test; replace hoses/boots; clean IACV | $200-900 |
| IACV short/ECU damage (Z32) | Coolant leak into IACV causes electrical short | Replace IACV; repair ECU traces; fix coolant leak | $400-1200 |
| MAF sensor/harness faults | Aging connector pins; broken wires near plug | Repair harness pigtail; replace MAF if needed | $120-450 |
| Turbo smoke (Z32TT) | Worn seals/bearings; oil coking from heat | Rebuild/replace turbos; add proper cooling/oil lines | $2500-6000 |
| Boost leaks (Z32TT) | Old couplers, cracked IC tanks, loose clamps | Pressure test; replace couplers/clamps; fix IC leaks | $150-900 |
| Exhaust manifold cracks | Heat cycling; thin castings; aggressive tunes | Replace manifolds; check studs; retune if needed | $600-2000 |
| Head gasket failure | Prior overheating; detonation on bad tune/fuel | Compression/leakdown; head gasket job; machine heads | $2500-6000 |
| Manual synchro grind | Worn 2nd/3rd synchros; wrong fluid; hard shifts | Fluid change; rebuild trans or swap known-good unit | $300-2500 |
| Clutch slave/master leaks | Old seals; heat; contaminated fluid | Replace master/slave; flush; inspect hard line | $200-650 |
| Dual-mass flywheel rattle | Worn DMF springs (common on Z33 manuals) | Replace with new DMF or convert to single-mass kit | $900-2000 |
| Differential bushing clunk | Aged diff/subframe bushings; wheel hop damage | Replace bushings; inspect mounts; align rear | $500-1800 |
| Rear tire inner wear | Worn rear arms/bushings; lowered w/o correction | Replace arms/bushings; alignment; camber correction | $400-1600 |
| Steering rack leaks | Seal wear; contaminated fluid; torn boots | Rebuild/replace rack; flush system; new boots | $700-1800 |
| ABS/VDC warning lights | Wheel speed sensors, tone rings, ABS module age | Scan; replace sensor/ring; module repair if needed | $150-1200 |
| Window regulator failure | Worn cables/rollers; dried tracks; water intrusion | Replace regulator; clean/lube tracks; fix leaks | $250-700 |
| T-top/hatch water leaks | Shrunk seals, clogged drains, misaligned panels | New seals; clear drains; adjust latches; reseal trim | $200-1200 |
| Heater core leak | Corrosion; old coolant; electrolysis | Replace heater core; flush system; new coolant | $900-1800 |
| A/C weak or inop | Leaks at o-rings, condenser, compressor wear | Leak test; replace failed parts; evac/recharge | $300-1600 |
| Alternator failure | Age/heat; PS fluid contamination; bearing wear | Replace alternator; fix PS leaks; check grounds | $250-800 |
| Rust at subframe mounts | Moisture traps; salted roads; poor prior repairs | Cut/repair metal; treat; undercoat; avoid bondo fixes | $1000-6000 |
| ECU capacitor leakage (Z32) | Aging electrolytic caps leak and damage traces | ECU rebuild/repair; replace caps; clean board | $200-600 |
| Knock from worn rod bearings | Low oil, track abuse, poor maintenance | Oil analysis; rebuild/replace engine; fix oiling issues | $3500-9000 |
| Catalyst/O2 sensor failures | Age, rich tune, oil burning, cheap aftermarket parts | Fix root cause; replace O2s/cats with quality parts | $300-2500 |
Differences between JDM & USDM
The Fairlady Z badge was JDM-only. Every Z exported from Japan from 1969 onward wore a numeric designation that reflected its engine displacement (240Z = 2.4L L24, 260Z = 2.6L L26, 280Z = 2.8L L28, 300ZX = 3.0L VG30, 350Z = 3.5L VQ35, 370Z = 3.7L VQ37) until the RZ34, which dropped the displacement number entirely and is simply 'Z' in export markets and 'Fairlady Z' in Japan. Mechanically the JDM and USDM cars are largely the same, but the JDM-only specifications are meaningful: the S30 Fairlady Z 432 used the S20 inline-six from the Hakosuka Skyline GT-R (twin-cam, twin-carb, 160 hp) and is one of the rarest factory Zs ever built; the S130 280ZX-T turbo was sold in the US but a JDM-only 200ZR Z31 used the RB20DET inline-six rather than the VG-series V6; JDM Z32 grades like Version R and Version S were never sold in North America; and JDM Z33/Z34 trim names (Version T, Version ST, Type C) do not map directly to US Touring/Sport/NISMO badging. The 240Z launched in the US at $3,526 in 1970 — a price Mr. K's marketing team chose specifically to undercut the Jaguar E-Type by half, and to position the Z as the credible Japanese sports-car alternative to British and Italian imports.
1999 Z32 Nissan Fairlady Z 300ZX 2by2 (JDM RHD)
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
Walk this checklist with the seller on the car, not from a printed sheet. The Critical items are walk-away items if there's no paperwork backing them up. On an S30 or S130 the rust check matters more than anything else. On a Z32 it's the timing belt history. On a Z33 or Z34 it's the oil consumption pattern and the clutch hydraulics. Spend 30 minutes driving it.
Critical Priority
High Priority
Medium Priority
Low Priority
Generation History
S30 (Fairlady Z/240Z) (1969-1978)
- Iconic long-hood Z; light, analog feel
- L-series I6; carbs to EFI (market dependent)
- Rust is the #1 value killer; inspect rails
- US: 240Z/260Z/280Z; JDM: Fairlady Z
- Best: original panels, matching driveline, stock trim
S130 (280ZX) (1978-1983)
- More GT than sports; heavier, quieter
- Turbo models are the enthusiast pick
- T-tops common; check leaks and floor rust
- Values rising but below S30 in most markets
- Great entry point for classic Z ownership
Z31 (300ZX) (1983-1989)
- VG30 V6 era begins; tech-forward for its time
- Turbo models strongest; check cooling and wiring
- Digital dashes/aging electronics can be costly
- Undervalued vs peers; clean turbos gaining
- T-top seals and rear hatch rust to watch
Z32 (300ZX) (1989-2000)
- NA and Twin Turbo; TT is collector focus
- HICAS/ICAS, Super HICAS; complex but capable
- Timing belt service is critical; 60k interval
- TT: heat management and vacuum lines matter
- Clean, stock-ish 2+0 TT manuals command premiums
Z33 (350Z) (2002-2009)
- VQ35DE/HR; big aftermarket and track support
- HR (2007-09) generally preferred for revs/oiling
- Common: oil consumption, synchros, diff bushings
- Values stable; best buys are unmodified 6MT
- NISMO trims carry premiums if unmolested
Z34 (370Z) (2009-2020)
- VQ37VHR; sharper chassis, strong reliability
- NISMO and Sport trims most desirable
- CSC clutch issues on manuals; common fix
- Aging infotainment; otherwise robust drivetrain
- Prices firming as last 'simple' Z before RZ34
RZ34 (Nissan Z) (2022-present)
- VR30DDTT 3.0TT; strong torque and tuning
- 6MT or 9AT; Performance trim is sweet spot
- Early supply constraints; markups easing gradually
- Watch for dealer add-ons and ADM on low miles
- Future classic potential if kept stock and documented
Market Data
JDM Fairlady Z trim names don't line up with what was sold in the US. The S30 had the Fairlady Z 432 with the S20 twin-cam from the Hakosuka GT-R. The Z31 had a JDM-only 200ZR with the RB20DET inline-six. The Z32 had Version R and Version S grades that never crossed the Pacific. The Z33 and Z34 had Version T, Version ST, and Type C trims that don't map to US Touring or NISMO. If you're shopping a JDM import, learn the JDM grade hierarchy first.
Production Numbers & Rarity
| Generation | Years | Total Built | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| S30 | 1969-1978 | estimated | Global S30 known high-volume; exact JDM split varies |
| S130 | 1978-1983 | estimated | 280ZX family; exact JDM turbo counts limited |
| Z31 | 1983-1989 | estimated | 300ZX Z31; 200ZR is very low-volume |
| Z32 | 1989-2000 | estimated | Z32 long run; TT/2+2 splits vary by market |
| Z33 | 2002-2009 | estimated | 350Z; NISMO is limited relative to base |
| Z34 | 2009-2022 | estimated | 370Z; NISMO and Roadster are lower-volume |
| RZ34 | 2022-present | estimated | Ongoing production; NISMO is lowest-volume grade |
Original MSRP & Pricing
Original MSRP: $3,526 at launch in 1970. USD launch price of the 240Z in the United States. Contemporaries: Jaguar E-Type was approximately $5,725; Porsche 914-6 was approximately $6,099; Chevrolet Corvette base coupe was approximately $5,192. Nissan/Datsun deliberately set the price to undercut every European competitor in the segment. JDM Fairlady Z launch pricing was set in yen and varied by trim grade (Fairlady Z 432, with the S20 engine, was substantially more expensive than the L20A-powered base car).
How It Compares
The Fairlady Z's competitors changed across the generations. The S30 took on the Jaguar E-Type and the Porsche 914-6. The Z32 fought the Supra JZA80 and the RX-7 FD. The Z33 was aimed at the Porsche Boxster and the BMW Z4. The RZ34 sits against the Supra A90 and what's left of the affordable sports car market. The table below leans toward the Z's strengths because that's where the Fairlady Z actually wins.
| Feature | Z31 | Porsche 911 (G-body) | Toyota 2000GT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Era/segment | S30: 1970s sports coupe | 1970s sports coupe | 1970s sports coupe |
| Collector demand | S30 high; Z32 rising | Very high; blue-chip | High; JDM icon |
| Power output | Z32 TT: ~300 hp | 276-320 hp (market) | 255-280 hp (market) |
| Engine layout | Z32 TT: 3.0 V6 TT | 3.0 I6 TT | 1.3 rotary TT |
| Weight/feel | S30: light/analog | Heavier, refined | Light, raw |
| Reliability risk | Z32 TT: heat/vac lines | Cooling/hoses; pricey parts | Turbo/aging wiring |
| Maintenance cost | Z32: medium-high labor | High parts/labor | High complexity |
| Aftermarket support | Z33/Z34: huge | Huge | Strong |
| Track capability | 370Z NISMO: strong | Balanced, fast | Light, precise |
| Modern power | RZ34: ~400 hp | 382 hp | 455 hp |
| Transmission options | RZ34: 6MT or 9AT | 8AT only (most) | 6MT or 10AT |
| Tuning headroom | VR30: strong on bolt-ons | B58: very strong | LT1: NA gains modest |
| Practicality | Z: 2-seat hatch (most) | 2-seat coupe | 2+2 coupe |
| Value stability | Z34 firming; Z32 rising | High but volatile | Strong, premium priced |
| Classic entry price | S130/Z31: accessible | Often higher | Similar |
Comparable Alternatives
If the Fairlady Z isn't the right Z car for you, the obvious alternatives are the Toyota Supra A80 for a JZ-powered grand tourer, the Mazda RX-7 FD for a lighter rotary-engined rival, and the Honda S2000 for an analog-feeling roadster. None of them have the 56-year nameplate continuity the Z does, but each one solves a different part of the same problem.
Toyota GR Supra A90
Modern turbo coupe; strong tuning; premium interior
Toyota Supra JZA80
2JZ legend; higher buy-in; strong long-term demand
Porsche Cayman 987
Mid-engine balance; higher service costs; great dynamics
In Pictures
The Buyer's Read
The first question when buying a Fairlady Z is which generation you actually want. The S30 is the collector pick and prices reflect it — a clean documented 1970 to 1973 240Z under $25,000 is rare now, and concours-grade cars trade well into six figures. Skip rough S30 cars unless you are prepared for a frame-up rust repair. The entry point with less risk is a documented S130 280ZX or a Z31 300ZX, both in the $8,000 to $18,000 range for driver-grade cars.
The Z32 300ZX Twin Turbo is the 1990s pick, and it is the Fairlady Z most likely to cost you if you buy the wrong car. Get the timing belt paperwork. If there isn't any, assume the belt is overdue and budget $1,200 to $2,500 for the full kit. The twin-turbo packaging makes every repair expensive, and deferred maintenance compounds fast.
The Z33 350Z and Z34 370Z are the daily-driver Zs. Both VQ engines burn oil by design, and owners who treat that as a defect rather than a maintenance task are the ones who damage engines. Get a 6MT car, check the clutch hydraulics, and budget for the CSC fix — NISMO trims command premiums when stock.
The RZ34 is too new for long-term data, but the VR30DDTT has been in service in the Infiniti Q50 and Q60 since 2016. If you're buying one to keep, get a stock 6MT NISMO, document every service, and let the market determine where Z car values land in 20 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which Fairlady Z generation is most collectible?
- S30 (240Z-era) leads for classics; Z32 TT is the 90s collector pick; top RZ34 may age well.
- What’s the biggest issue when buying an S30/240Z?
- Rust and prior repairs. Check frame rails, floors, doglegs, hatch area, and quality of metalwork.
- Is the Z32 300ZX Twin Turbo reliable?
- Yes if maintained, but expect heat-related aging, vacuum lines, and strict timing belt service history.
- Which 350Z is best to buy?
- Most buyers prefer 2007-2009 HR for revs and updates. Prioritize 6MT, records, and clean mods.
- What are common 370Z problems?
- Manuals can suffer CSC failure; look for upgraded clutch hydraulics. Also check oil leaks and bushings.
- Are modified Z cars worth less?
- Often yes. Heavy mods, missing stock parts, or unknown tunes reduce value; OEM+ builds hold best.
- What trims/specs command the highest prices?
- S30 early cars, Z32 TT 2+0 5MT, 350Z/370Z NISMO, and RZ34 Performance with low miles.
- When is a Fairlady Z US-legal to import?
- Under the 25-year rule, eligibility is model-year based. Example: 2000 Z32 became legal in 2025.
Sources & References
Sources (15)
- Nissan Z-car — encyclopedic overview — WikipediaVerified
- Nissan Fairlady Z — encyclopedic overview — WikipediaVerified
- Datsun 240Z — encyclopedic overview — WikipediaVerified
- Nissan Heritage Collection — Nissan Motor CorporationVerified
- Nissan 300ZX Buyer's Guide — Garage DreamsVerified
- Nissan 350Z reliability problems and issues — RepairPalVerified
- Nissan 370Z common problems and recalls — Nissan ProblemsVerified
- Nissan Z — model overview and reviews — Car and DriverVerified
- Datsun 240Z auction results database — Bring a TrailerVerified
- Classic.com Nissan auction database — Classic.comVerified
- My350Z owners forum (technical discussion) — My350Z.com communityVerified
- The370Z owners forum (technical discussion) — The370Z.com communityVerified
- Nicoclub 240Z/260Z/280Z technical forum — NicoclubVerified
- Z Car Depot — S30 restoration parts catalog and tech — Z Car DepotVerified
- Z Driver community forum — Z DriverVerified
Sources last verified: