Page 174 - Wayne Carini's Guide to Affordable Classics
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The Z32’s 2 + 2 body style was less favored than the coupe, but offered a bit more practicality.
From a driver’s perspective, the Z31 was pretty good and the Z32 trade above Z31 cars. Still, at this point, any 300ZX has to be
was excellent. The suspension and steering upgrades in the 1989 and later models made a big difference in steering response and traction at the same time that horsepower dramatically improved. The 300ZX was always comfortable, but between the two generations the only reasons to choose the Z31 are affordability and nostalgia. For future desirability and even profit potential, the Z32 era will always be preferred.
If you’re shopping turbo cars, newer is always better. The original Z31 turbo cars faced the same problems of turbo lag and extra maintenance headaches and expense as all the other turbos of that generation. By the time the Z32 twin turbo came out, each side had its own intercooler and synthetic oils were preventing the grunge buildup that killed so many first generation turbos. Plus, with the Z32 you got a serious power boost instead of the modest gains available with the earlier turbo models. As modern engine management came into being, Nissan was able to boost compression and power output safely. For the best experience, choose a 1996 model, as these are the only 300ZX models with OBD-II compliant engine management.
The 300ZX convertible of 1993-96 is another special experience that may appeal to a collector. Like many convertibles of the era, the 300ZX used a B-pillar roll bar for occupant safety. As luxury models, the convertibles are more likely than others to include an automatic transmission, leather interior, and additional options. As a general rule, convertible tops are opened much more often than T-tops, and with better effects. In today’s market, 300ZX convertibles are no more expensive than standard models, so if you’re not married to the idea of a twin-turbo, why not go for the ragtop?
In today’s market, a basic 300ZX of either generation can be purchased for well under $10,000. Twin-turbo models trade higher, typically from $20,000 to $30,000 or even higher. Desirable models with manual transmissions or convertible tops are likely to fall between the extremes. As you might expect, Z32 models
172Wayne CariniAffordable Classics
considered a good investment in a solid collectible car.
The Knowledge
dThe 1989 Z32 300ZX twin turbo’s 300 horsepower rating was the same as the 1989 Ferrari 348, and the Nissan was faster to 60 mph.
dDriver-side airbags became available as an option
on 1991 model year 300ZX models. The driver’s airbag became standard in 1992, and a passenger side airbag was added for 1994 and beyond. Because of that, Nissan was able to eliminate the door-mounted passive restraint seatbelts and put them back on the B-pillar.
dIn 1995, a special 25th anniversary edition commem- orating the 1970 240Z was available with “Anniversary Gold” paint. Steve Millen also created several SMZ spe- cials with up to 365 horsepower in that year.
dOnly the 1996 300ZX carries OBD-II engine monitoring, which makes diagnosing engine troubles much easier.
d1996 models included 300 commemorative editions with special documentation. There’s a plaque right under the stereo with the sequence number (out of 300) for that particular car.
dTurbocharged cars should be carefully inspected before purchase, as natural engine oils in use in the 1980s and 90s tended to burn and leave deposits in the oil lines serving the turbo bearings. Over time, these deposits reduce or even block oil flow and the turbo bearings burn out.
dAll turbocharged models from 1987 and later come with a standard limited slip differential.