Nissan Z Turbo
1981–1983 (280ZX), 1984–1989 (Z31), 1990–1996 (Z32)
Turbocharging defined the Z's performance peak across three generations. It arrived late on the 280ZX, continued on the Z31 300ZX Turbo, and reached its high point with the Z32's twin-turbo VG30DETT — the 300-hp engine that made the early-1990s 300ZX a Japanese performance icon.
1981–1983 (280ZX), 1984–1989 (Z31), 1990–1996 (Z32)
Overview
Turbocharging defined the Z's performance peak across three generations. It arrived late on the 280ZX, continued on the Z31 300ZX Turbo, and reached its high point with the Z32's twin-turbo VG30DETT — the 300-hp engine that made the early-1990s 300ZX a Japanese performance icon.
Collectibility
Z32 twin-turbo cars are the most sought-after turbocharged Zs; condition and originality drive everything. Values are qualitative here by design.
Every production run
Years & eras
| Years | Engine | HP | Production | Notable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1981–1983 | — | — | — | — |
| 1984–1989 | 3.0L VG30ET turbo V6 | — | — | — |
| 1990–1996 | 3.0L VG30DETT twin-turbo V6 | 300 | — | — |
1981–1983
The 280ZX Turbo brought forced induction to the Z for the first time, boosting the GT-oriented S130.
1984–1989
The Z31 300ZX Turbo paired the single-turbo VG30ET V6 with the new Nissan-badged 300ZX.
1990–1996
The Z32 300ZX Turbo used the twin-turbo VG30DETT, rated at 300 hp — the most celebrated turbocharged Z.
Worth knowing
Notable
- First Z turbo arrived on the 280ZX (S130).
- The Z32 twin-turbo's 300 hp is the badge's defining figure.
Model years featuring the Turbo