16 Aug 01
Prices: £1000-£12,000
Engines: Twin-turbo, 2960 cc, 280 bhp, V6; non-turbo 230 bhp
Check for: Leaks around targa roof panels and damaged upholstery, noisy or smoky engine, blown turbos, accident damage, full service and ownership history
Itll be a long time before the latest, much-acclaimed 350z is an bargain used buy. Its predecessor, the 300ZX, is nowhere near as sporting as the new Z or the original 240Z - and was much-criticised for being too bloated and heavy, but ZX fans say thats missing the point. The 240Z was intended as a Japanese answer to cars such as the MGB, whereas the 300ZX was more of a big brutal grand tourer, designed to take on the likes of the Porsche 928 or 944 Turbo at a lower price.
Only the twin-turbo, 280 bhp 2+2-seat version was sold officially in the UK (up until 1994, when official imports ceased), although the Japanese market Fairlady Z also got a 230 bhp, normally-aspirated version. Many examples of both have been 'chipped' to uprate the power output further - be wary of these unless there's evidence that the work has been done professionally by a reputable aftermarket tuner. There is also a short-wheelbase two-seater and a very rare convertible version, although most buyers have opted for the coupe, which has removable targa roof panels.
Offered with either a manual or automatic gearbox, most 300ZX buyers prefer the auto, which is more in keeping with the nature of the car and its high-tech electronics and gadgets. Basically, the sophisticated 300ZX is cleverer than its driver, with electronic four-wheel steering, cruise control and multi-link suspension; its grip and balance are excellent and the ride is smooth.
Standard equipment at launch included air-conditioning, ABS, front electric windows, central locking, alloy wheels, rear spoiler, foglights, front spoiler and CD player. The range was re-jigged in January 1992 when Nissan GB took control of its marketing, and the CD player became part of the Luxury options pack, which also included full leather upholstery and trim - although these became standard again in June 1992. Many earlier cars have been accessorised and bodykitted; be wary of tacky aftermarket add-ons, as they often indicate a lot of amateur tweaking.
