Nissan Fairlady Z
Nissan
Photo: Kazyakuruma / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0
The JDM name for the Z. From the S30 240Z to the modern RZ34, Japan iconic sports car.
The Nissan Fairlady Z is the Japanese-market name for the Z sports car line, sold as the Datsun or Nissan Z in export markets. Launched in 1969 as the S30 (the 240Z abroad), it delivered affordable straight-six sports-car performance and became a global icon. Across generations (S30, S130, Z31, Z32, Z33, Z34, and the modern RZ34) the Fairlady Z balanced style, rear-drive handling, and value. The twin-turbo Z32 of the 1990s and the naturally aspirated VQ-powered 350Z and 370Z kept the formula alive, and the current Z uses a twin-turbo VR30 V6. On WhipJury, Fairlady Z submissions span classic S30s, Z32 twin-turbos, and modern Z builds.
Frequently asked questions about Nissan Fairlady Z
Is the Fairlady Z the same as the Z car?
Yes. Fairlady Z is the Japanese-market name; the same car is sold as the Datsun or Nissan Z (240Z, 350Z, 370Z, Z) in export markets.
What is the most collectible Fairlady Z?
The original S30 (240Z) is the most collectible, especially early and rare variants. The twin-turbo Z32 is also increasingly sought after.
What engine does the modern Z use?
The current Z (RZ34) uses the VR30DDTT twin-turbo 3.0 liter V6, shared with the Infiniti Q50 and Q60 Red Sport.
Is the Fairlady Z rear-wheel drive?
Yes, every generation has been rear-wheel drive, central to its sports-car handling character.
Why is it called Fairlady?
Nissan named it after the musical My Fair Lady. Export markets dropped the name in favor of the Z designation, but Japan kept Fairlady Z.
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