Nissan’s 300-series cars have lived a few different lives—from digital-dash grand tourers in the ’80s to twin-turbo tech showcases in the ’90s. Whether badged as Datsun or Nissan, these cars helped shape the Japanese performance scene on both sides of the Pacific. But not all 300s are remembered equally—and some deserve a second look.

From limited editions to overlooked trims, this list rounds up the top 300ZXs that delivered performance, presence, or something in between. If you think the Z stopped at just one good version, think again.

1984 Nissan 300ZX Turbo (Z31)

The first-ever 300ZX debuted in 1984 as part of the Z31 generation. Powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 (VG30ET) making 200 horsepower, it marked a shift from the old inline-six days of the 280ZX. With its digital dash, T-tops, and wedge profile, it screamed ’80s from every angle.

It wasn’t just about looks—the Z31 Turbo could run mid-15s in the quarter mile and came with adjustable suspension on some trims. It helped transition the Z car into a more refined grand tourer without losing its performance edge.

1989 Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo (Z32)

The Z32 300ZX Twin Turbo set a new bar for Japanese sports cars when it hit U.S. streets in 1990. With a 3.0-liter VG30DETT V6 pumping out 300 horsepower and 283 lb-ft of torque, it was fast, refined, and loaded with tech.

It came with four-wheel steering (HICAS), a well-balanced chassis, and optional Super HICAS active rear steering. The car could hit 60 in under 6 seconds and handled like a true sports car. Sleek lines and a wide stance gave it a modern look that still turns heads today.

1986 300ZX Turbo Shiro Special (Z31)

Only 1,002 units of the Shiro Special were built for the U.S. in 1988, and it was the most performance-focused Z31 to hit the market. Painted in pearl white with no badging or striping, it looked cleaner and meaner than anything else in the lineup.

Under the hood, it kept the 200-hp turbo V6, but it also got stiffer springs, unique shocks, a viscous limited-slip differential, and Recaro seats. The manual-only setup and 3.70 rear axle made it one of the most driver-focused versions of the early 300ZX.

1994 300ZX Twin Turbo Convertible (Z32)

Most convertibles sacrifice structure for style, but Nissan did a solid job with the 300ZX drop-top. The twin-turbo version wasn’t officially offered by the factory, but a few dealer-converted examples were made—and they’re prized today for their rarity.

It kept the twin Garrett turbos and five-speed manual, offering 300 hp and the same performance potential as the hardtop. It wasn’t the sharpest handler in the Z32 lineup, but it was the best way to hear that turbo whistle at full throttle with the top down.

1996 Nissan 300ZX (Z32 Final U.S. Model Year)

The ’96 model marked the end of the 300ZX in the U.S. market. Emissions regs pushed Nissan to drop the twin-turbo, leaving only the naturally aspirated 222-hp VG30DE. Still, the car retained its timeless styling and strong chassis.

By this point, the Z had gained refined touches—leather interior, optional Bose audio, and airbag-equipped steering wheels. It wasn’t the fire-breather it had been in 1990, but it left the U.S. with dignity and is still sought after as a clean final-year example.

1985 300ZX 2+2 (Z31)

The 2+2 gave the Z31 a little extra length and rear seating—for better or worse. While it didn’t handle quite as sharply as the two-seater due to its longer wheelbase, it offered more space and practicality for buyers who wanted a sporty GT with room for gear.

The VG30E engine was smooth and torquey, and manual-equipped cars made decent use of its 160 horsepower. Not the fastest Z31, but a solid cruiser with good build quality and plenty of early digital-era flair.

1990 Nissan 300ZX Slicktop (Z32)

Most Z32s came with T-tops, but the slicktop—offered in the early years—was the lightest and most rigid of the bunch. Only available in non-turbo form, it paired the 222-hp VG30DE with a tighter chassis and no extra roof weight.

The result was a better-handling, more focused sports car. It didn’t get the same attention as the turbo models, but enthusiasts today appreciate the slicktop for its cleaner lines, lower curb weight, and chassis rigidity. It’s a sleeper for handling purists.

1990 300ZX Twin Turbo 2+2 (JDM)

In Japan, Nissan sold a twin-turbo version of the 2+2, something American buyers never got. With 300 hp and the same HICAS four-wheel steering, it delivered solid straight-line speed and cornering ability in a longer, slightly softer package.

It had all the Z32 hardware but added space and rear seating, making it a more usable GT. These models have started trickling into the U.S. under the 25-year rule and offer a unique combo: big performance with added practicality.

1987 300ZX Turbo Anniversary Edition (Z31)

To celebrate 50 years of Nissan (under Datsun in the U.S.), they released a special-edition Z31 in 1984 and again in ’87. The later 1987 300ZX Turbo Anniversary Edition was fully loaded—digital dash, leather, body-color trim, and unique badging.

It came with the 200-hp turbo V6, automatic climate control, and every high-end feature Nissan had on offer. While not a lightweight sports car by any means, it showcased Nissan’s ability to blend performance and luxury into a single high-spec Z.

Stillen 300ZX Twin Turbo (Z32)

Steve Millen and the Stillen brand helped push the Z32 to new heights in the ’90s. Their twin-turbo builds often included larger turbos, upgraded intercoolers, exhaust, and suspension tuning that turned the Z into a legitimate Corvette-fighter.

Some of the most well-known Stillen builds pushed well beyond 400 horsepower, with track-ready balance and upgraded brakes. While not factory models, Stillen 300ZXs are among the most respected tuner Zs—and a reminder of how much performance was locked inside the VG30DETT.

*Created with AI assistance and editor review.