Nissan North America, Inc. this week marked the 35th anniversary of the debut of the original Datsun 240Z sports car by announcing details of the special Nissan 350Z 35th Anniversary model. The commemorative model, one of six 350Z Coupe models offered in 2005 (along with three 2005 Nissan 350Z Roadster models), is highlighted by a higher performance version of the Z®'s standard 3.5-liter V6. The engine, which is available only with the 6-speed manual transmission, produces 300 horsepower versus the standard 287-horsepower V6. The 35th Anniversary Z® makes its industry debut at the Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas on November 2nd, followed by its first public appearance at the Miami Auto Show in early November. It is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in January 2005.

'Surviving 35 years does not make a sports car a classic. But power, style and class leadership certainly does,' said Mark McNabb, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. 'This new 35th Anniversary represents the highest expression so far of the Z® – and Nissan – and takes its place in a long line of extraordinary performance vehicles.'

The 35th Anniversary Z®'s engine has been modified using revised pistons and camshaft and the addition of electronic exhaust valve timing control. The same engine will also be available as standard equipment on the 2005 350Z Track model (6MT only), which also goes on sale in early 2005.

Other key 35th Anniversary Z® equipment (standard on both 6-speed manual and 5-speed automatic equipped versions) includes unique 18-inch cast aluminum-alloy wheels, front and rear spoilers, Brembo® brakes and special Z® badging.

The 35th Anniversary Z® is offered in just three colors – Ultra Yellow, Super Black and Silverstone. The new Ultra Yellow exterior color utilizes a new high-luminance and high-chroma pearl pigment and three layers of top coat (with separate color pigment and pearl pigment layers) to create an almost 'liquid' surface appearance.

The 35th Anniversary Z® also is available with unique, optional black-and-tan leather-appointed seats (except with the Ultra Yellow interior).

All 2005 350Z models, including the new 35th Anniversary model, receive a standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), heated outside mirrors, wider view side mirrors and front seat lifter. Automatic transmission equipped models are now outfitted with downshift rev matching for smoother shifting, and manual transmission models now come with reduced clutch pedal effort for easier operation. The optional navigation system (available on 35th Anniversary and Touring models only) now has a faster system processor.

The 2005 350Z Coupe is available in six models – 350Z, Enthusiast, Performance, Touring, Track MT and the 35th Anniversary. Standard features on all models include the 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine, independent multi-link suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars, strut tower bar, power windows, 3-bay gauge cluster, dual front air bags, available seat mounted side impact air bags and more.

The 2005 350Z Roadster is offered in Enthusiast, Touring and Grand Touring models. The Grand Touring, offered for the first time in 2005, includes standard Brembo brakes, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and 18-inch wheels and tires.

35 Years of the Z®

The latest generation 350Z takes its cues from the first generation Datsun 240Z – a front engine/rear-wheel drive drivetrain configuration, two-seat interior, a powerful 6-cylinder engine and, of course, a simple and honest design. Horsepower was set at 150 and the list price was $3,526 when it went on sale on October 18, 1969 as a 1970 model. It was an instant hit, with perspective owners having to wait nearly six months to get one.

The model designation was changed to the 260Z in 1974 following an increase in engine size to 2.6-liters. In mid-year 1975, a new 280Z replaced the 260Z. The 280ZX was introduced in 1979 was named Motor Trend 'Import Car of the Year.' T-top roofs were introduced in 1980 and by year's end, half of all ZXs were so equipped. In 1981, the 280ZX Turbo went on sale. Then in 1984 the Nissan 300ZX was introduced with a major facelift. The 1984 300ZX sold 73,101 units, becoming the top-selling sports car in America.

In 1990, the 300ZX, with a completely new body and interior, debuted with 222 horsepower, a turbo 300ZX went on sale later in the year with 300 horsepower. American Z sales surpassed the 1 million-sales mark in the early 90's, becoming the all-time best selling sports car. Nissan offered the first Z® convertible in 1993.

In 1996, 300ZX production for the U.S. ended; the last imported 1996 model 300ZX was inducted into the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles. Then in 1999, a special Z® Concept debuted at North American International Auto Show in Detroit. A production version of Z® was shown at Tokyo Motor Show and the 350Z name was announced.

In 2002, the current generation 350Z went on sale as a 2003 model, followed by the 350Z Roadster a year later.

'The history of the Z® is still being written, even as we take time to celebrate the first 35 years,' said McNabb. 'And if, as they say, history repeats itself, the best is still to come.'

by Nissan

Nissan will be showing its performance side at the 2005 Goodwood Festival of Speed (24-26 June) with cars you can buy and some you can't. Leading the charge will be a 350Z specially developed by Nissan Motorsport International. The company also played an important role in assisting RML motorsport to build a unique 350Z engined Micra to be displayed on Nissan's stand. Parked alongside it will be the rather more available Micra 160SR as well as the 350Z Roadster, a Murano and the new Navara, the most powerful pick-up officially imported into the UK. Driving in the Contemporary Racing Saloon Cars category will be the race winning '99 Primera BTCC car. And festival goers will be able to get dirty in a Pathfinder or Patrol on the 4x4 course.

Nissan Motorsport International – NISMO – specially developed a version of the 350Z to celebrate their win in the Japanese 2004 GT500 Touring Car Championship. It's called the NISMO 350Z S-tune GT and is a road-going version of the race car. 20 are hand-built every month in Japan and the car driving at Goodwood, specially imported by Nissan Motor (GB) Ltd., is believed to be the only one in the UK. The S-tune has extended front and rear bumpers, side-sills and a rear wing modelled on the GT car. As if that wasn't enough, NISMO five-spoke 19' wheels, racing stripes and pearlescent white paint will ensure this Nissan gets noticed in the Brooklands paddock.

Under the bonnet, NISMO has extensively modified Nissan's VQ35 engine to give 300PS and a maximum rev limit of 7200rpm. The exhaust and cooling system has also been uprated, the clutch reinforced and NISMO's G-ATTACK S-tune suspension system installed. The interior hasn't been neglected, either. Lightweight, Alcantara upholstered racing seats will keep the drivers securely planted during the Supercar run. Just as well because piloting the S-tune on the Sunday of Goodwood will be experienced driver and Sky News presenter, Ginny Buckley.

The NISMO 350Z S-tune GT, worth around £50,000, is attending the Goodwood Festival of Speed to give more exposure to Nissan's motorsport arm. Although Nissan doesn't officially import the S-tune into the UK, the standard 350Z Coupe and Roadster are on sale here in limited numbers. And a less dramatic version of the S-tune's bodykit and its 19' wheels are available from Nissan dealers.

NISMO has also breathed on the engine that has been fitted to a very special Micra which, too, is making its debut at this year's Goodwood Festival of Speed. The Micra R shown at last year's event has become the Micra 350SR after a heart transplant conducted by Ray Mallock Limited based in Wellingborough using a 350Z engine with NISMO parts to produce 310PS and 363Nm of torque. Its engine is rear mounted, where the Micra's rear seat would normally go, and drives the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox shared with the American market Nissan Altima SE-R. 350Z wheels and hubs are used along with specially machined drive shafts. Painted in the 2005 350Z Japanese GT touring car colours, the muscular Micra 350SR will be showing off its new engine on the Nissan stand. Its sub-five second 0-60mph acceleration and 150mph+ top speed will be proven at a later date.

The Primera being entered into Goodwood's ‘Supermarket to Supertouring' category has nothing to prove. This is the car that won Nissan the manufacturer's title in the 1999 British Touring Car Championship and marked the final development of the ultimate Supertourer. The Primera, now owned by Pro Motorsport Ltd. and sponsored by Nissan Motor (GB) Ltd., will be driven at Goodwood by Anthony Reid, a name familiar from Nissan's 1997 and '98 teams.

by Nissan

2005 Nissan 350Z Roadster - All Z®, No Top

The dynamic driving experience that for 35 years has been associated with the Z® comes equipped with a little less these days – it's topless. First introduced as a 2004 model, the 350Z Roadster features a power-operated soft top with glass rear window, which transforms from top-up to top-down in about 20 seconds.

'The Z® Roadster offers a fresh look at the modern convertible, the styling is an updated take on the classic roadster, but the heart is all Z®,' said Mark McNabb, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. 'The Z® Roadster further expresses Nissan's commitment to offering bold, exciting, performance vehicles.'

New for 2005 is a 350Z Roadster Grand Touring Edition with 6-speed manual, which is scheduled to be available in late 2004. It comes equipped with Brembo® brakes, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and 18-inch aluminum–alloy wheels.

All 2005 350Z Roadster models receive a number of other enhancements, including standard Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS), driver's seat front and rear lifter (except for net seat design), reduced clutch pedal effort for manual transmission models and downshift rev matching for automatic transmission models, heated outside mirrors and a faster navigation system processor for improved route calculation times (for optional navigation system).

Also new for 2005 is an Ultra Yellow exterior color, which utilizes a new high-luminance and high-chroma pearl pigment and three layers of top coat (with separate color pigment and pearl pigment layers) to create an almost 'liquid' surface appearance.

One-Touch Conversion

The Z® Roadster's fully automatic soft top features a heated glass rear window, which helps provide clearer visibility in adverse weather conditions. And, unlike other convertibles in its class, the top stows compactly under a lightweight powered tonneau cover, completely hiding the top when down.

Activating the top is a simple process. Push the brake pedal and hold the button (located to the left of the steering column) and the top opens or closes.

The top is released from or secured to the windshield header with a unique three-lock, single latch located directly above the middle windshield area. The three-lock, single latch system was created to give a more secure seal, while also making the closing process easier. The Z® Roadster is the only convertible in its class to offer this type of latch system.

Quiet Cruising

The FM (Front Mid-ship) platform, used on the 350Z Coupe, is adopted for use in the Z® Roadster. Structural reinforcements were incorporated to strengthen the Z® Roadster unibody, including a center floor V-shaped cross bar connecting the side sills and a front A-shaped cross bar reinforcing the front end. Additional reinforcement was added at the door openings and a triple-member was added to the seating area connecting the sides to the floor structure to provide enhanced rigidity.

Also during the design phase of the Z® Roadster, engineers devoted countless hours conducting wind tunnel tests. These tests allowed the engineers to adjust the Roadster's design to route air flow to help minimize interior noise and turbulence while maximizing downforce at highway speeds.

A key component to reducing interior noise is a tempered glass wind deflector located between the seats that directs wind out and over the cabin. Seatbelt fasteners were also added to help keep seatbelts from flapping in the wind. As a result, the Z® Roadster is among the leading competitors for low interior noise with the top down.

Contemporary Styling, Inside and Out

Unique to all convertibles is the high visibility of the interior. Knowing this, the designers of the Z® Roadster put a heavy emphasis on the interior design of the car.

'The Z® Roadster incorporates a seamless flow between the exterior and interior of the vehicle,' said McNabb. 'We fused the two together to create one harmoniously visual design.'

Since the heart and soul of the Z® is performance, the design, inside and out, needs to reflect that. Like the Z® Coupe, the instrument panel features three gauge pods consisting of the drive computer, oil pressure gauge and voltmeter, as well as modern touches such as an optional navigation system with 7-inch display. The door vents and center console have a solid, chiseled-from-a-block-of-aluminum look.

The driver's seat of the Z® Roadster is tailored for performance. The base cushion is firm and long for additional support, while bolster cutouts under the thighs optimize pedal operation. The seatback is sculpted with large 'wings,' designed to help secure drivers during acceleration. The upper side bolster is sculpted in the middle for easy shifting and steering, while the lower side bolster is designed wider and deeper to keep the driver squarely behind the wheel.

Also offered on the Z® Roadster are unique, Burnt Orange ventilated leather-trimmed net seats. The net-style seats are made with a woven seat cloth center insert and feature an opening in the seatback so that the driver can feel a wind flow during top-down driving. A built-in seat heater is also available for those sundown rides.

A lockable luggage box capable of storing a briefcase is standard. There is also sufficient luggage space in the trunk even though the top is stored in the trunk area when down. The trunk has up to 4.1 cubic feet of useable room for storage.

Performance Worthy of Z® Status

The Z® Roadster shares all of the hardtop Z®'s key performance features. Power is provided by the 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6 engine used in the Z® Coupe, producing 287 horsepower and 274 lb-ft of torque, a power range that comes as a result of the engine's intake port design and Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS) technology. This enables the engine to deliver not only outstanding start-off acceleration and high-speed passing performance, but also torque characteristics suitable for city driving.

Drivability has been further improved for use in the Z® Coupe and Roadster by adopting an electronically controlled throttle, and the use of a highly rigid cylinder block combines with other measures to produce engine sounds worthy of a sports car.

Suspension for the rear-wheel drive Z® Roadster is a 4-wheel independent design. Both 6-speed close-ratio manual and 5-speed automatic transmissions are available.

Models and Options

The 2005 350Z Roadster is offered in three well-equipped models – 350Z Roadster Enthusiast, 350Z Roadster Touring and 350Z Roadster Grand Touring. Standard 350Z Roadster Enthusiast features include power seats, power-operated soft top, electrically operated storage cover, rear wind deflector, 17-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, automatic climate control, a choice of 5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission and more.

The 350Z Roadster Touring model features a Bose® audio system with 6-disc CD changer and seven speakers, leather-appointed seats and standard side-impact air bags.

The 350Z Roadster Grand Touring model, which is available only with the 6-speed manual transmission, adds Brembo® brakes, Vehicle Dynamic Control and 18-inch wheels and tires.

Only a few options are offered for the well-equipped 350Z Roadster. Side-impact supplemental air bags are available on the Enthusiast model and standard on the Touring and Grand Touring models, 18-inch alloy wheels are available for Enthusiast and Touring models, and ventilated leather-trimmed net seats are available for the Touring and Grand Touring models. The DVD-based navigation system is available on the Touring model only.

by Nissan

2005 Nissan 350Z Continues 35-Year Z® Tradition of Delivering Performance, Style and Value

Thirty-five years since its first appearance in North America, the high performance Z® sports car returns in 2005 with a special commemorative 35th Anniversary model, along with a number of other enhancements, continuing the Z® heritage of design, performance and value that has remained unchallenged since the original Datsun 240Z was introduced as a 1970 model.

The 35th Anniversary Z®, available along with the 2005 350Z Track model, will offer some unique features, including enhanced horsepower from the standard Z's 3.5-liter DOHC V6.

All 2005 350Z models receive a standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), heated outside mirrors, wider view side mirrors and front seat lifter. Automatic transmission equipped models are now outfitted with downshift rev matching for smoother shifting, and manual transmission models now come with reduced clutch pedal effort for easier operation. The optional navigation system now has a faster system processor.

A new Ultra Yellow exterior color, which utilizes a new high-luminance and high-chroma pearl pigment and three layers of top coat (with separate color pigment and pearl pigment layers) to create an almost 'liquid' surface appearance, is also available for 2005.

The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From the Z®

The 350Z takes its cues from the first generation 240Z – a front engine/rear-wheel drive drivetrain configuration, two-seat interior, a powerful 6-cylinder engine and, of course, a simple and honest design. The 350Z Coupe, like the original, features a true hatchback body.

While inheriting the 'Z®-ness' passed on through successive generations, this Z® embodies many sports car features, all of which have been executed to exceptionally high quality.

Design cues passed on from the first-generation Z® include the long nose and short deck styling, triangular cabin form and the lines extending from the arch-shaped roof to the hatchback opening. To that heritage, a newness has been added to contrast the soft, warm body shape with the geometrical forms of the headlamps and other parts.

Fitting of its sports performance essence, the Z®'s design is anchored by very aggressive wheel forms pushed all the way out to the corners. Like a race car, the body's center of gravity is placed in the middle and the tires are positioned as far as possible at the four corners to emphasize the car's nimble agility.

Sporty Two-Seater with Functional Interior

The instrument panel features three gauge pods, similar in design to the 240Z, consisting of the drive computer, oil pressure gauge and voltmeter as well as modern touches such as an available navigation system with video display. The door vents and center console have a solid, chiseled-from-a-block-of-aluminum look.

The hatchback design is accentuated by functional storage space. Though the 350Z has been executed as a sports car, thorough attention has also been paid to storage capacity, with sufficient luggage space for carrying two golf bags behind the seats, a lockable luggage box capable of storing a briefcase and other storage places. Another interior feature is an integrated aluminum rear suspension strut tower brace. The brace is finished to match the rest of the rear compartment and carries a Z® logo, which is visible from outside the vehicle. In addition, the use of aluminum for the instrument finishers, door handles and other places enhances the high-quality look of the interior.

Performance That Delivers

The 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6 engine produces 287 horsepower and 274 lb-ft of torque, power range that comes as a result of the intake port design and adopting Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS) technology. This enables the engine to deliver not only outstanding start-off acceleration and high-speed passing performance, but also torque characteristics suitable for city driving. Drivability has been further improved by adopting an electronically controlled throttle, and the use of a highly rigid cylinder block combines with other measures to produce engine sounds worthy of a sports car.

Suspension for the rear-wheel drive vehicle is a 4-wheel independent design. Both 6-speed close-ratio manual and 5-speed automatic transmissions are available.

Models and Packages

The Enthusiast model adds xenon headlamps, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver, cruise control, Traction Control System (TCS), Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD), aluminum pedals and auto dimming rearview mirror.

The Performance model includes all of the Enthusiast equipment plus Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and 18-inch tires with aluminum wheels. The Touring model adds a Bose® audio system with 6CD, cassette with seven speakers, leather seats with 4-way power driver's seat and heated seats. The Touring 6MT adds a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission, Vehicle Dynamic Control and 18-inch wheels and tires.

The 2005 350Z Track comes with a close-ratio, 6-speed manual transmission, front and rear spoiler, forged aluminum wheels and Brembo® brakes. Two options are available, a DVD-based navigation system (Touring and 35th Anniversary models only); and side and curtain side-impact supplemental air bags.

by Nissan

The 240Z was not a new idea. Sturdy engineering, excellent performance, low price, attractive styling, and average interior had been achieved by many manufacturers prior to the Z-car. The reason the 240Z car was so great was that it capitalized on all these criteria and perfected the concept of a low-cost, reliable, sports car. Mr. Yutaka Katayama is considered the 'Father of the Z Car' and is responsible for the design and creation of this legendary vehicle. As recognition of his contributions to the automotive world, in 1998 he was inducted into the Automobile Hall of Fame.

The Datsun 240Z was introduced in 1969 as a 1970 model. The engine was a derivation of the Datsun 1600. The Datsun 1600 engine was a copy of the 1960's six-cylinder Mercedes-Benz 220 engine, but with two fewer cylinders. By adding two extra cylinders in the 240Z the cylinder count was back to six. With 151 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque, the vehicle could propel from zero-to-sixty in eight seconds. The independent suspension and the rack-and-pinion steering added to its quick response, performance, and handling. The front disc brakes brought the car to a stop from high speeds in just seconds. With a price tag of just over $3,500, it cost much less than anything else on the market. Due to demand, a year later Kelly Blue Book rated the value of a used 240Z at $4,000.

The 240Z dominated the SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) C-class production category for 10 years ranging from 1970 through 1979. In 1970 and 1971 John Morton, driving for Brock Racing Enterprises was the first to claim victory in SCCA C-Class production racing using a 240Z. Bob Sharp claimed his first win in that category in 1972 and again in 1973 and 1975. Walt Maas continued the streak in 1974. The Z-car competed in the IMSA (International Motor Sports Association) where it captured many victories, including the IMSA GTU title. In 1982, Devendorf and his Electromotive racing team win Datsun's first-ever IMSA GTO championship.

In 1985, Paul Newman set 10 track records in a 280ZX Turbo.

In 1994, a race-modified Z car won the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours at Sebring. It also captured the GTS Class at the 24 Hours of LeMans, making it the only car ever to accomplish such a record within the same year.

In 1974, the engine displacement was increased to 2.6 liters and the vehicle was dubbed the 260Z. This brought an end to the 240Z series which had sold 116,712 examples during its lifespan. The United States emissions regulations were increasing every year. Thus, the 260Z had less horsepower than its predecessor and was rated at 139.

The 260Z was available in 2+2 configuration. With the fold-down rear seats, the 260Z offered a higher level of practicality over the 240Z. During its first and only model year, 63,963 examples were produced giving it the all-time Z-car sales record to date.

In 1975 the displacement was increased to 2.8 liters and the vehicle dubbed the 280Z. A Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system was included which helped bring increase the horsepower to 149.

In 1977, the horsepower rating was 170. A five-speed overdrive transmission was now offered, giving the vehicle better performance and fuel economy. The sales of the Z car once again hit a record high, with 67,331 units sold.

In 1979, the second generation of the Z-car was introduced as the 280ZX. It was more refined and luxurious than the previous Z's. The formula was correct and it was named Motor Trends 'Import Car of the Year'. A new all-time sales record was achieved with 86,007 units being sold.

In 1980, over 500,000 cumulative American Z-cars had been sold. It had reached the half-million sales mark faster than any other sport car. A new T-bar roof option was now being offered.

To add to the appeal and performance of the 280ZX, a turbocharged engine became available in 1981. Sales continued to remain strong through 1983.

In 1984 the third generation of the Z-car was introduced and was dubbed the 300ZX. It featured distinct styling and a new 3.0-liter V6 engine. The normal-aspirated engine produced 160 horsepower, while the turbocharged version offers 200 horsepower.

In 1989, the American automotive economy was continuing to evolve. Minivan's and sport utility vehicles were gaining in popularity. In response, Nissan introduced the fourth-generation Z-car in 1990. The new 300ZX featured improvements both mechanically and aesthetically. Under the hood sat an all-new DOHC 3.0-liter engine with a horsepower rating of 222. A twin-turbocharged version of the engine was available and brought the total horsepower output to 300. The body of the vehicle had been improved giving it a more aggressive stance.

Motor Trend awarded the Z00ZXTT 'Import Car of the Year' and 'One of the Top Ten Performance Cars'. Automobile Magazine honored the car with 'Design of the Year' and was added to its 'All Stars' list. Not to be outdone, Road & Track named the car 'One of the Ten Best Cars in the World'. Car and Driver named it 'One of the Ten Best Cars'.

During the 1990 model year, the one-million sales mark was achieved making it the all-time best-selling sports car. The car continued to receive great reviews and awards from magazines and publications. The year 1995 marked the 25th Anniversary of the Z-car. To commemorate this occasion, a limited edition was produced with the help of Steve Millen Sport Cars.

In 1996, the production of the Z-car ceased in North America. Decreasing Sales figures, and increased smog regulations and production costs were to blame. The price of the twin-turbo 300ZX was priced at $45,000, a cost that was too expensive for most consumers. Production of the Z-car continued in Japan until 1999, although it had undergone a major redesign in 1998.

In August of 2002, Nissan introduced the 350Z. This six-gear, two-seater was the fifth generation of the Z-car. Offered in five trim packages that included Base, Enthusiast, Performance, Touring, and Track Editions, the vehicle was an instant success. The base price was around $26,000 with the fully-loaded Track option costing over $34,000. Aesthetic and performance upgrades were available through Nismo, Nissan's motorsport, and performance divisions.

In 2004, a roadster option was offered. The roadster was available in two trim packages which included the Enthusiast and Touring editions.

A special 35th Anniversary model was released in 2005 featuring twice the output of the original 1969 model.

Sales figures, race results, and satisfied customers have proven this to be one of the best sports vehicles ever produced.

by Dan Vaughan

Z SPECIAL EDITION ANNIVERSARY MODELS: A LOOK BACK

NEW YORK – When the original Datsun Z debuted in 1969, it was a revelation for the automotive world.

An affordable, reliable sports car with style and comfort that could be used for daily driving was unheard of at the time. With a base price of $3,626 U.S., the Z – known as the Datsun 240Z in North America – was a sports car that was accessible to anyone.

In short time, customers around the world were enjoying their newfound freedom to explore their favorite winding roads in style. Sales jumped to more than 40,000 globally in 1970. A legacy was born with the first-generation Z, whose value, style and performance has continued to drive innovations in engineering and excitement, keeping the Z a segment leader for decades.

Over the next five decades, Nissan released several limited edition Z cars to celebrate key milestones:

1980 Datsun 280ZX 10th Anniversary Edition

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the first Z, Nissan released a special edition 280ZX model with a limited production run. The success of previous Z cars opened the opportunity to equip 280ZX models with upscale materials such as leather seats and hi-fi stereos – a departure from the sporty yet economical approach of the initial 240Z.

With only 3,000 made, the 280ZX 10th Anniversary Edition is today considered a highly collectible car. The most popular model package featured a two-tone black-and-gold paint scheme with accent pin stripes, of which 2,500 were made. The remaining 500 wore a red-and-black paint scheme. Each 280ZX 10th Anniversary Edition had a dash plaque with the edition number. (Canadian models came with a Maple Leaf emblem.)

The 1980 Datsun 280ZX was powered by a 2.8-liter inline-6 that produced 132 hp and 144 lb-ft of torque. Power was transferred to the rear wheels via a 5-speed manual gearbox. Other special features include a golden Z hood badge, gold- or black-colored alloy wheels, commemorative wreath decals on the front fenders and hatch, headlight washers, a new style shift knob, tan or burgundy leather seats, a tinted T-bar roof, and a 40-watt, power-boosted four-speaker sound system.

1980:

•Top song (Billboard): 'Call Me' by Blondie

•Best picture: 'Kramer vs Kramer'

•Most popular TV show: 'Dallas'

•Other notable Nissan models of the year: Sentra (B310), Pulsar (N10)

1984 Nissan 300ZX Turbo 50th Anniversary Edition

The 1984 Nissan 300ZX Turbo 50th Anniversary Edition celebrated the five-decade anniversary of Nissan's founding in December 1933. Only 5,148 of these cars were manufactured for the U.S. market; an additional 300 were built for Canada.

The 1984 300ZX Turbo came equipped with a 3.0-liter V-6 that produced 200 hp and 227 lb-ft of torque. The transmission was either 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. Inside the cabin, drivers were treated to peak '80s design and technologies considered advanced for the time, such as steering wheel audio controls, digital readouts and electronically controlled sport suspension.

The 300ZX 50th Anniversary Edition's features included: 'Nissan 50th Anniversary' commemorative badging, unique front fenders and rear fender flairs, and turbine-style alloy wheels with gold accents on the fins. In the cabin, unique touches included embroidered badging on the leather seats and floor mats, a futuristic digital instrument cluster with a dominant multi-LED sweeping tachometer, speed display and G-force indicator, and a Bodysonic Amplifier with adjustable intensity that added rumble to the front seats based on the sound profile of the music being played from the head unit.

The year 1984 marked not only a milestone for Nissan's history as a carmaker; it also marked the Z as the best-selling sports car in America.

1984:

•Top song (Billboard): 'When Doves Cry' by Prince

•Best picture: 'Terms of Endearment'

•Most popular TV show: 'Dynasty'

•Other notable Nissan models of the year: 200SX (S110), Datsun Truck (720)

2005 Nissan 350Z 35th Anniversary Edition

After temporarily leaving the domestic Japanese marketplace in 2000 (1997 in North America), a new Z took the world by storm in 2003. The first reborn Z was built on the company's innovative FM (Front Midship) platform and powered by a smooth-revving, high-output 3.5-liter V-6. Called the VQ (short for VQ35ED), the engine produced 287 hp and 274 lb-ft of torque.

In 2005, Nissan created a special version to celebrate the Z's 35th anniversary. The Nissan 350Z 35th Anniversary Edition was available in either Ultra Yellow, Silverstone or Super Black and came with a suite of performance tuning and upgrades.

Nissan's engineers retuned the engine to produce an additional 13 hp, raising the total to 300. Shifting was performed by a 6-speed manual gearbox. Other special equipment for this commemorative model included exclusive five-spoke, 18-inch alloy wheels, a small front spoiler, Brembo® brakes, special badging, and a Bose® six-speaker premium sound system.

2005:

•Top song (Billboard): 'We Belong Together' by Mariah Carey

•Best picture: 'Million Dollar Baby'

•Most popular TV show: 'CSI: Crime Scene Investigation'

•Other notable Nissan models of the year: GT-R PROTO, Frontier NISMO (D40)

2010 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition

In 2009, the 350Z's VQ engine received a displacement bump to 3.7 liters, prompting the car's name to change to 370Z. A year later, Nissan introduced the 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition. Limited to just 1,000 units, the special edition model was based on the Touring grade, equipped with a manual transmission and Sport Package, which included front and rear spoilers, Nissan Sport Brakes, 19-inch RAYS forged aluminum-alloy wheels, a viscous limited-slip differential and the company's innovative SynchroRev Match® transmission technology.

The car was visually distinguished by a special paint scheme, '40th Graphite,' as well as red brake calipers and 40th anniversary badges. The rich red leather seats featured 40th anniversary seatbacks with a debossed logo, leather door-panel inserts and shift boot, as well as a leather steering wheel with red baseball stitching. Each car came with a commemorative plaque and a premium satin car cover.

2010:

•Top song (Billboard): 'TiK ToK' by Ke$ha

•Best picture: 'The Hurt Locker'

•Most popular TV show: 'American Idol'

•Other notable Nissans of the year: LEAF, Juke (F15), Nissan New Mobility CONCEPT

The Z was first conceived in 1969 as an affordable, everyday sports car. This notion has stayed at the core of every Z since. It's no wonder fans today are just as excited when they get behind the wheel as they have been for the past 50 years.

by Nissan