Brendan is a great addition to TFL. He blends in seamlessly with the rest of the crew and he’s brought on another branch of content with these auction videos.
That Z car looks amazingly clean and sharp for being 40 years old. Somebody must have cared well for it. Thanks, Brendan for an interesting video. As you said, you don’t see these every day.
They’re phenomenal cars. I’ve owned 3 and I’ve they’ve been my favorite car my whole life (my aunt bought one a month before I was born- the one I own now). People freak out when you pull up. I’m glad they’re finally getting the love they’ve always deserved.
I was always totally in love with the Z32, but over the last 3-4 years, I've suddenly found myself gravitating toward the Z31 as my favourite looking z-car. Thanks for sharing with us!
I've owned my 86 Z31 for 32yrs, love the car😊 I've been offered 15k for mine and turned it down and it's a n/a and automatic. I have the original window sticker at$18,643. Very expensive for the day. You could buy a loaded I-ROC for that.
I've had my '88 Z31 for about the same length of time, most reliable car I've ever owned. Everything still works including the digital dash, power seats, auto climate control, etc. I am the second owner when the original owner traded it in for one of the "brand new" Miatas.
I think the one most people want is the next generation (Z32), the one that the Lamborghini Diablo borrowed headlights from. Those are even more expensive than this one.
Yeah when I was a kid my mom had a 1984 Datsun Nissan pulsar. You’re right it was the transition of the bame, 85 they went full Nissan. Making way for the maxima, the 240SX, and the Nissan hardbody. The 80s was awesome!
I'm 50 now. When I was 18 and in highschool I had a 85 n/a 5 speed manual with t tops. Same color, gray. And I loved it. You didn't mention that it talks!!! Lights are on, fuel level low, parking brake is on. Man I miss those days.
Had a girlfriend who had a 280Z back in the day, straight 6 if I remember correctly and manual transmission. It was a fun car. Use to cruise down Ocean Blvd in Myrtle Beach! Ahhh, memories !
I bought a new 300 ZX 2+2 in 1986. You could not get the turbo in the 2+2. It was pretty fancy for its time and very comfortable. I think the turbo offered 200 hp and the non turbo was 160 hp. I got my first 80+ mile per hour ticket in it.
From what I've seen in the comments, no one has mentioned the fact that this is a slicktop z31. The majority of these cars were t tops. This Z doesn't those. So, this Z is a little bit more of a rarity. Also, this is the only Z31 Turbo I seen with no t tops. On marketplace and other sites, I have only seen about 11 slicktop z31's for sale, and that's over the course of about 2 years browsing.
I had 2 of them in high school. An '86 N/A 5-speed and an '87 N/A 2+2 automatic. The 5-speed was decently quick (15.6 sec 1/4) and the 2+2 auto was slow (17.3 sec 1/4). They were a lot of fun to drive, regardless of the performance. In 1997, I payed $3,000 for the 1987 2+2 in great condition. Side note, Nissan used that engine in just about everything at some point. They found there way into the Quest mini-van in the mid '90s.
It used to be that the Z31 Nissan 300ZX was often considered the least favorite of the Z Cars, mostly because Z31 300ZX(and the previous 280ZX) was more of a comfortable GT car than a pure sports car like the early 240Z. But as the years go on, mostly due to nostalgia, many car enthusiasts are starting to appreciate them now, including myself. And yes Brendan, the Z31 300ZX was also available as a 2+2 with a slightly different roofline, but the 2 seater was definitely better looking.
I picked up my z31 when it was like a 500 dollar car, and now seeing them go anywhere from 4k-20k (basically perfect condition), I'm happy with my choice.
The Z31 (84-89 300ZX) was only available in the US as a 2 seater if you wanted a turbo. It was available as a "2+2" but was NA only. My first car was actually an 86 2+2...I've had three Z31s, three Z32s (1990-1996 Zs) and currently have a 2014 370Z Roadster. (...and a 6MT Juke Nismo...and a 2002 Sentra SE-R Spec-V...and a 2016 GT-R...yea, bit of a Nissan guy...lol)
I agree that it's more a "GT" car than a sports car. Same goes for the late 80's Supra and RX7. These are great budget buys that just need a little TLC to be ready to carve turns on your favorite back roads...but over $5k and you'll likely find a better driving experience elsewhere. Let the dealers and flippers make their money on someone else.
Brendan love these videos, brother. Keep them coming. Especially with the retro Music. Hell, yeah, these cars are worth $11000! Even with repairs needed. Cars from the 80s, like the fox body Mustang's, the camaros and firebirds of the day are fetching that price point as well.
Love this Fairlady I had one in my 20s after fast and furious lol had some work done to it before I bought then I did a few things the 5sd is the way to go. She wasn’t the quickest off the line but rolling start and not scared of the rev limiter. Useless fact if you would have lifted up the silver bar in the interior it was a small compartment
Knew a guy in high school...his high school car was a 1981 Turbo Trans Am....mind you this was in 83/84 school year when we were seniors....car was black and gold just like Smokey and the Bandit...Senior year...graduation time....he's in a new 1984 Nissan 300Z. We went our separate ways after that. In college, I interned with a larger company in North Carolina...around Research Triangle Park....the 300Z was a very popular choice for singles...and i knew a number of women who had them as a daily driver. Years later....no Z Car for me but being a family man I did get a Maxima.....
I like the futuristic aluminum center console area. I had a 87 mustang & a girl I was dating at the time had this exact same car. Brings back memories.
My stepdad bought a burgundy 85 zx Turbo 5 spd. With T-tops around 1990. He sold me his ‘81 280zx. At the time his 300zx felt like a rocket ship and was a very Pretty car
You can tell someone pampered this car. It's nearly 40yrs old, has 184k miles, and still looks so clean and the engine (belt squeak aside) sounds very smooth. It's a shame that the gauges are faulty. I'm not even sure what it would take to fix that.
I had a semi-thrashed '84 Turbo 5-speed in high school in the early/mid '90s, exact same color even, and it had the digital dash and leather seats and T-tops and everything. Even when I had it in the mid-'90s, when the car was barely 10 years old, it SEEMED really outdated. Ha! Maybe it was the digital dash that screamed, "I'm from the '80s!" not sure. Even on the sportiest setting, the suspension floated like a Caddy. Turbo lag was freaking glacial, took forever and a day to spool up. If I remember right, the one I had was originally bought new for around $22k with the options it had (I remember this because the original window sticker was in the glove box and my dad said that was about the same as the Corvettes of the time), but my parents bought this for me used for like...I don't know...$4k, maybe, at most? I have good memories of it, and It was my first car with a manual transmission, so they always make me nostalgic, BUUUUUUT all that said, I gotta say these have to be the bottom of the Z car barrel, right? Older ones were more sportscar and less GT, as you say in the video. Later generations looked better and were way faster. But hey, still, even a bad Z is still a pretty cool car, amirite?
The Z31 is an interesting classic car. Semi trailing arm rear suspension (like an E30), a very durable and reliable V6 engine, and a comfortable, inviting interior makes it easily accessible to anyone wanting to get into classic cars. I think time has aged this car better than one would expect, given the somewhat lackluster period reviews. The naturally aspired V6 has a Busso-like quality with some MSA headers, and the Turbo can be tuned to take more than twice the power it comes with. If you address the soft factory suspension by upgrading the springs and shocks, or by upgrading to an Apex Engineering rear suspension kit, you can make these cars handle really well. But even out of the box they're very planted at high speeds and corner well. Sure, they don't slide around corners great. But many owners appreciate how stable the Z31 is. Parts are still available and the aftermarket is growing every day to take up the slack, so long-term ownership experience is not a problem. The Z31 debuted Nissan's RB20DET in Japan (the Fairlady Z 200ZR), Nissan's first V6 engine, and was the last RWD car to win Japan's rally championship. There's lots to like about the Z31, but the best part is that it still makes a great classic daily driver that is practical. Prices have been on the rise since 2019. The most expensive Z31 sold for $102k USD, and a dealer in Japan has a '89 200ZR-I Recaro package car listed for 13200000 Yen right now.
I bought one for my son as his high school car. Same car as this one but a 1985 and a manual. This car would brake the tires lose when shifting to third. Someone had removed the cat before we got it.
Geez - I guess I shoulda kept my '86 300ZX but I never thought they'd appreciate that much in value. Mine was an N/A automatic so it was SLOW...but it was comfortable and fun to drive. I got rid of mine when I started a family since it only had two seats but I'm glad I owned one for a while.
Holy moly that's a sought after unicorn. Turbo AND a slick top. Would have been the trifecta with a 5-speed. One of these days this era Z-car will explode in value.
I used to own this same car. Was a LOT of fun but MAN are they a pain to work on. Not a lot of room under the hood. They are better with the manual transmission, leather, and the cool digital dash though.
I was in my late teens and early 20’s during the transition from Datsun to Nissan. Of course, there wasn’t much fanfare (no internet of course) and at the time, I lived in GM country (Ohio) so there was more chatter about the Dodge imports from Mitsubishi than anything. Still, my college buddy had a Datsun 280z, I drove it, I understood it, even though it was far too small for my big frame to be comfortable in. You could throw it into corners (with some care) and it was reasonably fast. When the 300z was around, I actually took quite a drive (Columbus) to find a Nissan dealer. I test drove a manual and found it to be full of lag and rather uninspiring to drive. I took it out of the city and found the handling to be anemic. You’re right - it’s more of a GT car and even at that, it was not great. The seats were uncomfortable, barely adjustable and my driving position to grab the clutch was awkward to say the least. I thought it was a cool looking car, tuning Japanese cars was in its infancy (think: civic hatch back rally cars) and it just didn’t seem to make sense for me. By the late 80’s I had both a Saab900 and a Porche 928S4 as company cars (lucky broadcaster company cars) and never gave Nissan a second thought. I really think whomever passed on this is insane and likely made a bad purchase. Like you said, unless it was a cream puff of a manual example, I cannot fathom who would spend any more than a few thousand nostalgia dollars. Maybe I’m missing something in the ‘tuner community’ but it sure seems like they’re trying to ride the coat tails of the Gtr or Skyline. Recently, I drove a 350z and of if I had the means (no longer a lucky broadcaster) that would be a buy for me to tune and mess around with. At 58 now, I suppose I’d be looking for comfort and fun, which is why my big ass has been in a 2013 Countryman, with some great, no bank bust mods, for several years. Anyway - apologies for the ramble and Happy New Year
I remember 10-15 years ago, they were giving these away for peanuts. I still would like an 89 turbo, but I'm fine with my 86 200ZR. The z31 came with so many different engine options in Japan.
I like the older Zs. I bought a 1981 Turbo new. One of the first turbos in California the dealer said. Drove it for 99,000 miles and sold it. At that point, it still ran great but when you stomped on it and the turbo would up, it sounded like the cops were chasing you!
Hahah, the ol' Turbo siren. I'd forgotten about thinking I was hearing sirens all the time in my '83 Turbo. With no youtube or even interwebs, I never felt up to tackling a turbo replacement. Bummer, because the 280zx with a good turbo was a real screamer back in the day.
4 seater is available on the Z called 2+2. I was in the 2nd hand market looking for a 300ZX back in 1990. However those 84'-86' Z were still pretty expensive back then. So I bought a 85' Maxima instead. Same engine, cheaper and even more comfortable then the Z.
I've got an 86, n/a for now but I'm getting megasquirt setup to run all the turbo stuff. I think I liked my 83 280zx more but the Z31 has a lot of charm as well
Never really liked the Z31 300ZX, I vastly preferred its successor the Z32 1990-96 model, which IMO is still a landmark vehicle, and one that really hasn't aged at all. Just a timeless design. The Z31's styling got dated really quickly, particularly the refreshed 1987-89 model which were fairly strange looking. That one is in nice shape. I haven't seen one on the road in years. A relative had an early Z31 (1985 I think) that was ultimately junked due to pervasive rust.
This is My Fav gen of Z cars i really like the wedge shape and pop up headlights. I dont mind that its more a GT car that sports car either. Also you are correct dont hardly see these on the road anymore. Whoever owned that car before took really good care of it cause for 183k on the ODO the paint looks great and so does the rest of the car. Must had either had a repaint and some other stuff replaced in the interior.
This is a very rare and anomaly for an '84 turbo. The T-tops were a option for '84. The lower model, the GL got no t-tops and standard interior; no digital package, no leather power drivers seat. But the T-tops were a standard option on all turbo models starting in '84. Ive owned 5 Z31s, now own two, '85 and '87 turbo. This is the absolute first time i come across a non-t-top Z31 turbo and ive been around Z31s for 22 years. Especially with an automatic! Someone special ordered this model! Its plain to see the color is original and the car was kept in a garage and well cared for because these bodies are not galvanized. So its a 2 options Z31, turbo and automatic. It is DEFINETLY not worth the asking price for the milage alone! For the rarity and shape, someone might pay 10K for it who is into Z31s.
I find it fitting how you compared the MSRP to the Corvette of that time. Even for 2024, the new Nismo Z MSRP is only a few thousand dollars short of the base C8 Vette.
Nice that’s a great find there I would get but change the transmission to manual transmission is very easy. My parents had the 1982 Datsun/Nissan Maximus straight six. With the manual transmission.
The z31's were falling apart back in the 90's when i first started working for Nissan. Can't imagine driving one now. Most caught fire and burned to the ground before the recalls. 😂
My buddy had a 1985 manual turbo in the early 2000s. He let me drive it a few times. Was a lot of fun and the turbo lag is hilarious thinking back to then and driving my wife's turbocharged car now with no lag. Cool video, but unless you had a hip or leg issue, who would buy this without the manual!! Sacrilege! Lol
No such thing as no turbo lag, especially on electronic throttle modern cars with tiny engines... However, the lag on these is bad because of downpipes required from emissions laws
Mine has 0 turbo lag, absolutely NO turbo lag. All you need to do is open up all the 6 exhaust ports. The stock exhaust ports are hilariously tiny, hindering a quick escape for the spent gases. Consequently impeding a quick spool up for the T3 garret turbo charger. I had mine enlarged, intake starting from the lower inlet manifold and exhaust ports. My Z31 blasts like a rocket now at the traffic lights, a run for it's money for the Z32 TT and Z33. No other mods required if you're on a budget. Stock Z31 turbo injectors supports 300bhp easily. Z31s are way lighter than the Z32s and Z33s. So to start off you're at a free given advantage.
As a collector of pristine Japanese cars of the 1980s with low mileage, I would caution that people should not come to any conclusions about the performance, build quality or other based on a car with higher mileage or that has not been pampered. Low mileage well cared for Nissans or Toyotas are significantly different than this car, for example.
Thanks for sharing the video good stuff. I own a 1984/ 50th anniversary. 300Z and it's registration is as a Datsun/Nissan. So Datsun would be the main name. Keep up the great work.
My uncle had a 1995 300ZX turbo. I loved looking at the car as a kid and got to get some drives in it. I remember asking him about what happened to it in the 2000's sometime over dinner, and he told me he loved the car but it was complete trash and always breaking down, so he finally sold it around 2003-2004.
Good summary of that era of the 300ZX, I had a 1988 example for a while. Not a great car, but now has an attractive 80s vibe. Very comfortable GT, not particularly quick from standstill. Thirsty V6 with only moderate performance made no sense in Europe though, with much higher fuel prices, & where they have all been killed off by rust. Still better than the more powerful Corvette which had an awful interior!
Not a great car in regards to sports car performance? From an automotive and reliability standpoint, my 1988 Z is the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned, right up there with my 4runner.
The same-year Supra was way down on power compared to this Turbo Z. That Supra looked better, but it wasn't as powerful as its muscular design suggested. So, this Turbo Z was the one I wished for.
Our boss had a new n/a stick that she leant to anybody who asked nicely. It was nice seemed true to the 240 z tradition light and good handling compared to the Luminas and Celebrity's we were renting out anyways. Not worth 11k+ to me but the market is still far from cooling down.
Just bought a mint 2005 350z 1 owner with 30k miles always garaged. Paid 13k and I'm betting if I keep this puppy mint it will be worth 30k+ in 10 years
i remember when this came out and i thought "meh". i finally got one and took it for a drive and was amazed by how "meh" its performance is. now mind you when these came out i had a couple of 200+ mph cars
And what a hideous look it was. 😧 The only Z car that ever remotely hid the 2+2 decently was the Z32 series. You had to actually take a good look to see the added length.
@@davidleem3773 I know. Having a V AND a straight 6 is something you don't see every day. For a time that was also in the Laurel and the Cedric. Tho in the Cedric the RB25 was there for the 4 wheel drive version.
I wish I could buy it.😂😊 I had one just like it that I bought used when I got out of high school and I loved it. I ran the dog doo out of it. That thing would run like a jet. I raced Zs and trans Ams, Mustangs . I could hang or beat any of them.
makes me sad. I loved my z31 and wanted to get into another one but man... anything RWD is getting a premium these days. I had the 86 model. That 84 being a slick top will raise the price a little too.
Brendan is a great addition to TFL. He blends in seamlessly with the rest of the crew and he’s brought on another branch of content with these auction videos.
That Z car looks amazingly clean and sharp for being 40 years old. Somebody must have cared well for it. Thanks, Brendan for an interesting video. As you said, you don’t see these every day.
They’re phenomenal cars. I’ve owned 3 and I’ve they’ve been my favorite car my whole life (my aunt bought one a month before I was born- the one I own now). People freak out when you pull up. I’m glad they’re finally getting the love they’ve always deserved.
I was always totally in love with the Z32, but over the last 3-4 years, I've suddenly found myself gravitating toward the Z31 as my favourite looking z-car. Thanks for sharing with us!
I've owned my 86 Z31 for 32yrs, love the car😊 I've been offered 15k for mine and turned it down and it's a n/a and automatic. I have the original window sticker at$18,643. Very expensive for the day. You could buy a loaded I-ROC for that.
I've had my '88 Z31 for about the same length of time, most reliable car I've ever owned. Everything still works including the digital dash, power seats, auto climate control, etc. I am the second owner when the original owner traded it in for one of the "brand new" Miatas.
This was the first car I fell in love with. This was the car to make me a car guy.
I think the one most people want is the next generation (Z32), the one that the Lamborghini Diablo borrowed headlights from. Those are even more expensive than this one.
Its all preference, but i'd take a z31 over the z32 anyday.
Yeah when I was a kid my mom had a 1984 Datsun Nissan pulsar. You’re right it was the transition of the bame, 85 they went full Nissan. Making way for the maxima, the 240SX, and the Nissan hardbody. The 80s was awesome!
I'm 50 now. When I was 18 and in highschool I had a 85 n/a 5 speed manual with t tops. Same color, gray. And I loved it. You didn't mention that it talks!!! Lights are on, fuel level low, parking brake is on. Man I miss those days.
Had a girlfriend who had a 280Z back in the day, straight 6 if I remember correctly and manual transmission. It was a fun car. Use to cruise down Ocean Blvd in Myrtle Beach! Ahhh, memories !
I bought a new 300 ZX 2+2 in 1986. You could not get the turbo in the 2+2. It was pretty fancy for its time and very comfortable. I think the turbo offered 200 hp and the non turbo was 160 hp. I got my first 80+ mile per hour ticket in it.
I have a manual 85 turbo t-top 2+2 with 230 hp but that is an european version!
my dad had a 1985 or 1986 (don't remember which) - 300 ZX turbo - loved that car - so reliable and fun (Digital gauges and automatic)
From what I've seen in the comments, no one has mentioned the fact that this is a slicktop z31. The majority of these cars were t tops. This Z doesn't those. So, this Z is a little bit more of a rarity. Also, this is the only Z31 Turbo I seen with no t tops. On marketplace and other sites, I have only seen about 11 slicktop z31's for sale, and that's over the course of about 2 years browsing.
Yes it's a unicorn in the Z31 series. If it had a 5spd he would have hit the trifecta. Bonus points for red, black, silver or white.
My older brother had one nearly identical to the one in the video when I was a kid. Beautiful car and a treasure to find at an auction.
I had 2 of them in high school. An '86 N/A 5-speed and an '87 N/A 2+2 automatic. The 5-speed was decently quick (15.6 sec 1/4) and the 2+2 auto was slow (17.3 sec 1/4). They were a lot of fun to drive, regardless of the performance. In 1997, I payed $3,000 for the 1987 2+2 in great condition. Side note, Nissan used that engine in just about everything at some point. They found there way into the Quest mini-van in the mid '90s.
It used to be that the Z31 Nissan 300ZX was often considered the least favorite of the Z Cars, mostly because Z31 300ZX(and the previous 280ZX) was more of a comfortable GT car than a pure sports car like the early 240Z. But as the years go on, mostly due to nostalgia, many car enthusiasts are starting to appreciate them now, including myself. And yes Brendan, the Z31 300ZX was also available as a 2+2 with a slightly different roofline, but the 2 seater was definitely better looking.
I picked up my z31 when it was like a 500 dollar car, and now seeing them go anywhere from 4k-20k (basically perfect condition), I'm happy with my choice.
The Z31 (84-89 300ZX) was only available in the US as a 2 seater if you wanted a turbo. It was available as a "2+2" but was NA only. My first car was actually an 86 2+2...I've had three Z31s, three Z32s (1990-1996 Zs) and currently have a 2014 370Z Roadster. (...and a 6MT Juke Nismo...and a 2002 Sentra SE-R Spec-V...and a 2016 GT-R...yea, bit of a Nissan guy...lol)
I agree that it's more a "GT" car than a sports car. Same goes for the late 80's Supra and RX7. These are great budget buys that just need a little TLC to be ready to carve turns on your favorite back roads...but over $5k and you'll likely find a better driving experience elsewhere. Let the dealers and flippers make their money on someone else.
i had a 280ZX turbo that was a blast to drive.
when the turbo kicks in it's go time
Really dig listening to Brendan. Im new to the channel and I gotta say that I really enjoy the content. Cheers!
Brendan love these videos, brother. Keep them coming. Especially with the retro Music. Hell, yeah, these cars are worth $11000! Even with repairs needed. Cars from the 80s, like the fox body Mustang's, the camaros and firebirds of the day are fetching that price point as well.
My favorite z31 version was the 50th anniversary edition. It came fully loaded. I think the only option was an automatic
I owned a 85 with the turbo , digital gauge and manual transmission. Great car till it was stolen in 2009
Short answer, yes. All 80s cars are GOLD, and they’re going FAST 💨
I miss seeing pop up headlights on cars 😔
Love this Fairlady I had one in my 20s after fast and furious lol had some work done to it before I bought then I did a few things the 5sd is the way to go. She wasn’t the quickest off the line but rolling start and not scared of the rev limiter. Useless fact if you would have lifted up the silver bar in the interior it was a small compartment
Knew a guy in high school...his high school car was a 1981 Turbo Trans Am....mind you this was in 83/84 school year when we were seniors....car was black and gold just like Smokey and the Bandit...Senior year...graduation time....he's in a new 1984 Nissan 300Z. We went our separate ways after that.
In college, I interned with a larger company in North Carolina...around Research Triangle Park....the 300Z was a very popular choice for singles...and i knew a number of women who had them as a daily driver. Years later....no Z Car for me but being a family man I did get a Maxima.....
I like the futuristic aluminum center console area.
I had a 87 mustang & a girl I was dating at the time had this exact same car. Brings back memories.
I had an 88 2+2 and I got EVERYTHING in there! It was my every day car and sometimes I would pull out the passenger seat to get even more stuff in.
Nice to see TFL and Brendan showing love to the Z31 now you you need to do a review on a Z32 TT. Let me know if you wanna review mine
My stepdad bought a burgundy 85 zx Turbo 5 spd. With T-tops around 1990. He sold me his ‘81 280zx. At the time his 300zx felt like a rocket ship and was a very Pretty car
I’m glad to see the Majestic red bead has gotten its own video!! Love the car too!
You can tell someone pampered this car. It's nearly 40yrs old, has 184k miles, and still looks so clean and the engine (belt squeak aside) sounds very smooth. It's a shame that the gauges are faulty. I'm not even sure what it would take to fix that.
I had a semi-thrashed '84 Turbo 5-speed in high school in the early/mid '90s, exact same color even, and it had the digital dash and leather seats and T-tops and everything. Even when I had it in the mid-'90s, when the car was barely 10 years old, it SEEMED really outdated. Ha! Maybe it was the digital dash that screamed, "I'm from the '80s!" not sure. Even on the sportiest setting, the suspension floated like a Caddy. Turbo lag was freaking glacial, took forever and a day to spool up. If I remember right, the one I had was originally bought new for around $22k with the options it had (I remember this because the original window sticker was in the glove box and my dad said that was about the same as the Corvettes of the time), but my parents bought this for me used for like...I don't know...$4k, maybe, at most? I have good memories of it, and It was my first car with a manual transmission, so they always make me nostalgic, BUUUUUUT all that said, I gotta say these have to be the bottom of the Z car barrel, right? Older ones were more sportscar and less GT, as you say in the video. Later generations looked better and were way faster. But hey, still, even a bad Z is still a pretty cool car, amirite?
My dad had a ‘84 and I had a ‘87. Loved that model era. Even if it is an automatic, doesn’t change my mind on them. Sexy car
The Z31 is an interesting classic car. Semi trailing arm rear suspension (like an E30), a very durable and reliable V6 engine, and a comfortable, inviting interior makes it easily accessible to anyone wanting to get into classic cars. I think time has aged this car better than one would expect, given the somewhat lackluster period reviews. The naturally aspired V6 has a Busso-like quality with some MSA headers, and the Turbo can be tuned to take more than twice the power it comes with. If you address the soft factory suspension by upgrading the springs and shocks, or by upgrading to an Apex Engineering rear suspension kit, you can make these cars handle really well. But even out of the box they're very planted at high speeds and corner well. Sure, they don't slide around corners great. But many owners appreciate how stable the Z31 is. Parts are still available and the aftermarket is growing every day to take up the slack, so long-term ownership experience is not a problem. The Z31 debuted Nissan's RB20DET in Japan (the Fairlady Z 200ZR), Nissan's first V6 engine, and was the last RWD car to win Japan's rally championship. There's lots to like about the Z31, but the best part is that it still makes a great classic daily driver that is practical. Prices have been on the rise since 2019. The most expensive Z31 sold for $102k USD, and a dealer in Japan has a '89 200ZR-I Recaro package car listed for 13200000 Yen right now.
I had some of those rear window louvres on my little hatch back I had in the mid 80’s.
Beautiful Z! As well preserved as it is, I wish it had a 5 spd manual and the digital dashboard the 83 280 turbo got.
Wow slicktop roof is so rare to see. No water leaks compared to the T tops. Thanks for sharing
My pops had a 84 n/a t top manual in white, he bought it for $500 from a buddy in 2001. Been looking at getting one just like his.
I bought one for my son as his high school car. Same car as this one but a 1985 and a manual.
This car would brake the tires lose when shifting to third.
Someone had removed the cat before we got it.
Geez - I guess I shoulda kept my '86 300ZX but I never thought they'd appreciate that much in value. Mine was an N/A automatic so it was SLOW...but it was comfortable and fun to drive. I got rid of mine when I started a family since it only had two seats but I'm glad I owned one for a while.
Holy moly that's a sought after unicorn. Turbo AND a slick top. Would have been the trifecta with a 5-speed. One of these days this era Z-car will explode in value.
I used to own this same car. Was a LOT of fun but MAN are they a pain to work on. Not a lot of room under the hood. They are better with the manual transmission, leather, and the cool digital dash though.
I was in my late teens and early 20’s during the transition from Datsun to Nissan.
Of course, there wasn’t much fanfare (no internet of course) and at the time, I lived in GM country (Ohio) so there was more chatter about the Dodge imports from Mitsubishi than anything.
Still, my college buddy had a Datsun 280z, I drove it, I understood it, even though it was far too small for my big frame to be comfortable in. You could throw it into corners (with some care) and it was reasonably fast.
When the 300z was around, I actually took quite a drive (Columbus) to find a Nissan dealer.
I test drove a manual and found it to be full of lag and rather uninspiring to drive. I took it out of the city and found the handling to be anemic.
You’re right - it’s more of a GT car and even at that, it was not great. The seats were uncomfortable, barely adjustable and my driving position to grab the clutch was awkward to say the least.
I thought it was a cool looking car, tuning Japanese cars was in its infancy (think: civic hatch back rally cars) and it just didn’t seem to make sense for me.
By the late 80’s I had both a Saab900 and a Porche 928S4 as company cars (lucky broadcaster company cars) and never gave Nissan a second thought.
I really think whomever passed on this is insane and likely made a bad purchase. Like you said, unless it was a cream puff of a manual example, I cannot fathom who would spend any more than a few thousand nostalgia dollars. Maybe I’m missing something in the ‘tuner community’ but it sure seems like they’re trying to ride the coat tails of the Gtr or Skyline.
Recently, I drove a 350z and of if I had the means (no longer a lucky broadcaster) that would be a buy for me to tune and mess around with.
At 58 now, I suppose I’d be looking for comfort and fun, which is why my big ass has been in a 2013 Countryman, with some great, no bank bust mods, for several years.
Anyway - apologies for the ramble and Happy New Year
Wow haven’t seen one of these since my grade 8 school teacher (1985) having this 40 year old car 😊🇨🇦
Great video, again! BTW, it's pronounced Dahtsun not dat -sun... Lol. The modernized the Z to compete with Porsche turbo 924, 928 and upcoming 944.
I remember 10-15 years ago, they were giving these away for peanuts. I still would like an 89 turbo, but I'm fine with my 86 200ZR. The z31 came with so many different engine options in Japan.
I like the older Zs. I bought a 1981 Turbo new. One of the first turbos in California the dealer said. Drove it for 99,000 miles and sold it. At that point, it still ran great but when you stomped on it and the turbo would up, it sounded like the cops were chasing you!
Hahah, the ol' Turbo siren. I'd forgotten about thinking I was hearing sirens all the time in my '83 Turbo. With no youtube or even interwebs, I never felt up to tackling a turbo replacement. Bummer, because the 280zx with a good turbo was a real screamer back in the day.
4 seater is available on the Z called 2+2. I was in the 2nd hand market looking for a 300ZX back in 1990. However those 84'-86' Z were still pretty expensive back then. So I bought a 85' Maxima instead. Same engine, cheaper and even more comfortable then the Z.
Great vid as always
I've got an 86, n/a for now but I'm getting megasquirt setup to run all the turbo stuff. I think I liked my 83 280zx more but the Z31 has a lot of charm as well
Never really liked the Z31 300ZX, I vastly preferred its successor the Z32 1990-96 model, which IMO is still a landmark vehicle, and one that really hasn't aged at all. Just a timeless design. The Z31's styling got dated really quickly, particularly the refreshed 1987-89 model which were fairly strange looking. That one is in nice shape. I haven't seen one on the road in years. A relative had an early Z31 (1985 I think) that was ultimately junked due to pervasive rust.
This is My Fav gen of Z cars i really like the wedge shape and pop up headlights. I dont mind that its more a GT car that sports car either. Also you are correct dont hardly see these on the road anymore. Whoever owned that car before took really good care of it cause for 183k on the ODO the paint looks great and so does the rest of the car. Must had either had a repaint and some other stuff replaced in the interior.
I've been in love with the Fairlady Z since I was a teen i the mid 90s. The moretime goes buy, the more $$ I am gonna have to give up to get one.
This is a very rare and anomaly for an '84 turbo. The T-tops were a option for '84. The lower model, the GL got no t-tops and standard interior; no digital package, no leather power drivers seat. But the T-tops were a standard option on all turbo models starting in '84. Ive owned 5 Z31s, now own two, '85 and '87 turbo. This is the absolute first time i come across a non-t-top Z31 turbo and ive been around Z31s for 22 years. Especially with an automatic! Someone special ordered this model! Its plain to see the color is original and the car was kept in a garage and well cared for because these bodies are not galvanized. So its a 2 options Z31, turbo and automatic. It is DEFINETLY not worth the asking price for the milage alone! For the rarity and shape, someone might pay 10K for it who is into Z31s.
I love it Brendan!!! Not worth 11 to me. But let us know what it goes foe it at all.
I find it fitting how you compared the MSRP to the Corvette of that time. Even for 2024, the new Nismo Z MSRP is only a few thousand dollars short of the base C8 Vette.
Nice that’s a great find there I would get but change the transmission to manual transmission is very easy.
My parents had the 1982 Datsun/Nissan Maximus straight six. With the manual transmission.
This one actually is pretty rare, not many turbo z31s left with the hard top anymore, definitely more so given the condition of it!
The z31's were falling apart back in the 90's when i first started working for Nissan. Can't imagine driving one now. Most caught fire and burned to the ground before the recalls. 😂
I was in my teen when those were new. Nobody wanted them other than secretaries. I was driving a ‘72 240Z at the time and much preferred the Supra.
My buddy had a 1985 manual turbo in the early 2000s. He let me drive it a few times. Was a lot of fun and the turbo lag is hilarious thinking back to then and driving my wife's turbocharged car now with no lag. Cool video, but unless you had a hip or leg issue, who would buy this without the manual!! Sacrilege! Lol
No such thing as no turbo lag, especially on electronic throttle modern cars with tiny engines... However, the lag on these is bad because of downpipes required from emissions laws
Mine has 0 turbo lag, absolutely NO turbo lag. All you need to do is open up all the 6 exhaust ports. The stock exhaust ports are hilariously tiny, hindering a quick escape for the spent gases. Consequently impeding a quick spool up for the T3 garret turbo charger.
I had mine enlarged, intake starting from the lower inlet manifold and exhaust ports.
My Z31 blasts like a rocket now at the traffic lights, a run for it's money for the Z32 TT and Z33.
No other mods required if you're on a budget. Stock Z31 turbo injectors supports 300bhp easily.
Z31s are way lighter than the Z32s and Z33s. So to start off you're at a free given advantage.
As a collector of pristine Japanese cars of the 1980s with low mileage, I would caution that people should not come to any conclusions about the performance, build quality or other based on a car with higher mileage or that has not been pampered. Low mileage well cared for Nissans or Toyotas are significantly different than this car, for example.
Looks like an '85 Supra in your avatar. You still have it? I had a white '85 and it was a fantastic car.
Thanks for sharing the video good stuff. I own a 1984/ 50th anniversary. 300Z and it's registration is as a Datsun/Nissan. So Datsun would be the main name. Keep up the great work.
Fun fact: the Pontiac Sunbird GT also had partially-concealed headlights.
I miss my Datsun/Nissan it was a 86 turbo and I got it in 1994 for 500 bucks I mowed lawns and built finces all summer to get it
I had a 1995 Nissan Maxima fully loaded man that thing was quality built. I love nissan
Excellent review, and cool insight on the Z32 😁
This isn’t a Z32
I always loved this car! My parents friends had one and it was so advanced in the 80s! This one isn't that though.
The half exposed headlights were so you could still "flash to pass" while they were down...
My uncle had a 1995 300ZX turbo. I loved looking at the car as a kid and got to get some drives in it. I remember asking him about what happened to it in the 2000's sometime over dinner, and he told me he loved the car but it was complete trash and always breaking down, so he finally sold it around 2003-2004.
Yeah. Z32 has an even tighter engine bay than the Z33/350Z, all kinds of problems on a regular basis.
I had the 85 of that same model and it would talk to you if you left the door jar or if there were any other error warnings or lights
Wow! What a classic. Great condition too.
Whats up with your DEL SOL bro!? Have you done and upgrades on it?
It's a really fun car to drive and if you like bass it's a great car for that as well.
I liked the fresh styling and great handling of the 240s and 260s. Ended up buying an Rx7 GSL-SE in 85 and that was a far better sports car.
Good summary of that era of the 300ZX, I had a 1988 example for a while. Not a great car, but now has an attractive 80s vibe. Very comfortable GT, not particularly quick from standstill. Thirsty V6 with only moderate performance made no sense in Europe though, with much higher fuel prices, & where they have all been killed off by rust. Still better than the more powerful Corvette which had an awful interior!
Not a great car in regards to sports car performance? From an automotive and reliability standpoint, my 1988 Z is the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned, right up there with my 4runner.
Thanks for driving the prices up!!!
Always loved how these look. Great video!
This car no joke I use it before long time ago...it's more power full then v8 cars ..it's very fast
The same-year Supra was way down on power compared to this Turbo Z. That Supra looked better, but it wasn't as powerful as its muscular design suggested. So, this Turbo Z was the one I wished for.
Tfl classics is uour best division
Wow a turbo car with no t-tops rare option
It’s ok they leak anyway
@@ramiram84 Mine never has.
@@TheSaturnV check pls bc rot may be forming
Our boss had a new n/a stick that she leant to anybody who asked nicely. It was nice seemed true to the 240 z tradition light and good handling compared to the Luminas and Celebrity's we were renting out anyways. Not worth 11k+ to me but the market is still far from cooling down.
Just need to find a good used bell housing, manual trans and clutch pedal.
Just bought a mint 2005 350z 1 owner with 30k miles always garaged. Paid 13k and I'm betting if I keep this puppy mint it will be worth 30k+ in 10 years
i remember when this came out and i thought "meh". i finally got one and took it for a drive and was amazed by how "meh" its performance is. now mind you when these came out i had a couple of 200+ mph cars
I had an '84 anniversary edition, really wish I would have kept it now...
8:45 this year is also available with 4 seats :)
And what a hideous look it was. 😧 The only Z car that ever remotely hid the 2+2 decently was the Z32 series. You had to actually take a good look to see the added length.
@@TheSaturnV z31 looks fine as 2+2. I like it
Always funny thing about the straight 6 gone now V6 is that in Japan you could also have the Z31 with a straight 6. 😆
The straight 6 in the Z31s is the RB 20, 2 litre turbo.
@@davidleem3773 I know. Having a V AND a straight 6 is something you don't see every day.
For a time that was also in the Laurel and the Cedric. Tho in the Cedric the RB25 was there for the 4 wheel drive version.
Even though Datsun has an “a” it’s pronounced “Dotsun”
My dad had an 84 non turbo, not super fast but still a fun car to drive.
I wish I could buy it.😂😊 I had one just like it that I bought used when I got out of high school and I loved it. I ran the dog doo out of it. That thing would run like a jet. I raced Zs and trans Ams, Mustangs . I could hang or beat any of them.
I like this generation better than the later 300 Z ,you know the jelly bean Z.
Like the car ,kind of cool 80s styling
I have a manual 85 turbo t-top 2+2 with 230 hp but that is an European version!
No but you the next gen 300ZX turbos in condition like that are sometimes getting over twice that.
makes me sad. I loved my z31 and wanted to get into another one but man... anything RWD is getting a premium these days. I had the 86 model. That 84 being a slick top will raise the price a little too.
I would have bought it i had a 1984 2+2 with a digital dash. I miss that car.