Nissan 300ZX Z31
The wedge-shaped bridge between Datsun heritage and modern tech.
- Power
- 200 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 7.3 s
- Top speed
- 143 mph
- Est. value
- $8k–$40k
About the Nissan 300ZX Z31
The Z31-generation 300ZX marked a significant shift for Nissan's Z-car, introducing the brand's first mass-produced V6 engine and a focus on grand touring luxury. The 1987 model year featured a major 'kouki' facelift, replacing the sharp edges of earlier cars with rounded bumpers and sleek, integrated lighting. While softer than its predecessors, the Turbo variant offered respectable performance for the era, aided by adjustable dampers and a Garrett T3 turbocharger. It remains a cult classic, celebrated for its quintessentially 1980s digital dashboard and 'talking' voice warning system.
Nissan 300ZX Z31 specs
The Nissan 300ZX Z31 produces 200 bhp (149 kW) and 308 Nm (227 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 7.3 seconds and has a top speed of 143 mph (230 km/h).
| Make | Nissan |
|---|---|
| Model | 300ZX |
| Generation | Z31 |
| Trim | Turbo |
| Years | 1983–1989 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Japan |
| Original price | About $21,000 when new |
| Engine | 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,960 cc (3.0 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 200 bhp (149 kW) at 5,200 rpm |
| Torque | 308 Nm (227 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 7.3 s |
| Top speed | 143 mph (230 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,525 kg (3,362 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 131 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Nissan 300ZX Z31 worth?
A typical Nissan 300ZX Z31 is estimated to be worth $7,500 – $40,000 (about £5,600 – £30,000).
Its original price when new was about $21,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Nissan 300ZX Z31 rarity in CarSpot
The Nissan 300ZX Z31 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 14 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Nissan 300ZX Z31 fun facts
- The Z31 was the first Nissan Z-car to use a V6 engine, moving away from the traditional inline-six layout used since the 240Z.
- The 1987 facelift was designed by Kazumasu Takagi and significantly improved the car's aerodynamics, bringing the drag coefficient down to 0.30.
- Higher trim levels featured a 'Voice Warning System' that used a miniature phonograph record to alert drivers if their lights were on or a door was ajar.