Nissan pulls back the curtain on an even more thrilling iteration, the track-ready Z NISMO. Launching this fall, the Z NISMO takes the iconic sports car’s legacy to a whole new level, seamlessly merging the spirit of the past with the cutting-edge features of the future. Nissan’s Z-series has long been a cornerstone of the company’s sports car lineup, tracing its roots back to the Datsun 240Z of the 1970s, fondly remembered for its sleek design and engaging performance. The Fairlady Z, as it’s known in Japan, has undergone a multitude of transformations across its six generations, always delivering the essence of a true sports car – speed, agility, and aesthetics, that blend seamlessly to create a driving experience like no other.
The 2024 Nissan Z NISMO represents the zenith of the series’ evolution, furthering its legacy by embodying the characteristics that have made Z cars iconic. The enhancements and modifications implemented in the new model serve to bring out the very best of the Z heritage, celebrating the series’ rich history while setting new standards for sports car performance and driving pleasure. Amplified to 420 horsepower and a 384 lb-ft of torque, the twin-turbo V6 of the Z NISMO should deliver an adrenaline-fueled ride with seamless power delivery across the rev range.
Adjustments such as improved cooling, a revised electronic wastegate control for increased turbocharger boost and turbine speed, and a distinctive independent ignition spark timing strategy—inspired by the GT-R NISMO—have all been orchestrated to maximize power output. Additionally, the Z NISMO features an advanced engine oil cooler system for sustained peak performance during extended track use, ensuring this sports car is as relentless and enduring as the drivers it caters to. The engine’s enhancements couple power with precision, bringing an entirely new level of performance to the Z series.
On the outside, Z NISMO’s look has been tailored for track performance. The car now exhibits a more pronounced “Grand-Nose” or “G-Nose”, reminiscent of the classic Nissan Fairlady 240ZG. The redesigned grille, with the thinnest honeycomb mesh on any Nissan production car, balances aerodynamics and engine cooling. A taller, wider rear spoiler and reshaped rear bumper corners add to the car’s aerodynamic efficiency. These external revisions result in a sports car that generates positive downforce, justifying the NISMO suffix.
Z NISMO’s interior has also seen a series of enhancements, including red-anodized engine-start and drive mode buttons, manual-adjust Recaro seats, and a leather and Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel with a red marker at the 12 o’clock position, subtly hinting at the car’s racing heritage.
Complementing the engine upgrades, Z NISMO comes exclusively with a nine-speed automatic transmission that promises faster, more dynamic shifting, and a new Sport+ drive mode for track use. NISMO engineers revamped the car’s suspension for precision, predictability, and cornering grip. Further, Z NISMO rides on Dunlop SP SPORT MAXX GT600 tires, contributing to maximum road feel and traction.
The car’s chassis has been extensively reworked, with additional bracing and stiffening measures to handle the increased cornering forces. The brake system has also been enhanced for extended track use, with larger rotors and a more performance-focused brake pad compound.
The 2024 Nissan Z NISMO, with its rich heritage and modern enhancements, is a testament to Nissan’s commitment to keeping the sports car’s thrill alive. While it acknowledges its roots, it does not shy away from the future, creating a unique blend of the past and the future that will undoubtedly excite Nissan enthusiasts.