Second generation (S130)

Nissan/Datsun 280ZX (S130)

The only thing that was left unchanged from the previous 280Z was the 5-speed manual transmission and 2.8-liter L28 inline-6 engine, while the entire car overall was made more luxurious to meet growing consumer demands. Major changes for this new generation of Z-cars include t-tops, introduced in 1980, and a turbocharged model introduced in 1981, complementing the naturally aspirated (NA) 2-seater and NA 2+2 models. Coupled to either a 3-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission, the turbocharged model was capable of 180 bhp (130 kW) and 203 ft·lb_f (275 N·m) of torque, over the 135 bhp (101 kW) and 144 ft·lb_f (195 N·m) of the NA engine.

Notable models include the 10th Anniversary Edition,^[1] featuring gold emblems, gold alloy wheels, and two-toned paint in either gold/red and black, with luxury features such as leather seats, headlamp washers, and automatic climate control.

The 280ZX was wildly popular, being hailed as Motor Trend's Car of the Year for 1979 and going on to set a Z-car sales record of 86,007 units in its first year. While on the one hand it received universal praise for taking the Z-car to further levels of comfort and performance, many enthusiasts also lamented the further emphasis on luxury over driving fun. This would continue with the third generation of Z-car, with a clean-sheet redesign that would take the Z-car to further heights.

First generation (S30)

Nissan/Datsun 240Z (S30)

Production of the Nissan Z Car started on October 1969, with 2 separate versions: one for the Japanese market and one for the US market. The Japanese Fairlady Z featured a SOHC L20A inline-6 producing 130 hp (97 kW), while the US 240Z had a L24 inline-6 with twin SU carburetors that produced 151 hp (113 kW). A third Z, the 432Z(PS30) shared a performance version of the DOHC 2.0 liter S20 engine with the Skyline GT-R.

In Japan, the car was still known as the Fairlady to keep in line with past Nissan sports cars; Katayama fought furiously to have all American badging replaced with "DATSUN" and refused all dealers to receive cars until he had done so.

The 240Z was released in America on October 22, 1969, and became an instant hit. Combining good looks, powerful performance, and luxury features, it sold over 45,000 units through the 71 model year and over 50,000 and 40,000 in 1972 and 1973, respectively.

1974 saw the Datsun Z's engine displacement increased to 2.6 liters, bringing a name change to Datsun 260Z, as well as a 2+2 model. Despite the engine size increase, power went down to 139 in the most areas of the US market thanks to new camshafts, carburetors and lower compression in the face of stiffening emissions regulations. In other export regions the power was increased to 154 hp (115 kW).

In 1975, the Datsun 280Z was offered in North America (not to be confused with the 280ZX, which is a second-generation Z-car) with another engine displacement enlargement to 2.8 liters. A major change was the introduction of Bosch fuel injection, replacing the previous SU carbs. This resulted in a power increase to 170 hp (130 kW), enough to offset the added luxury and enlarged bumpers to meet US Federal regulations. Export markets outside North America continued to receive the Datsun 260Z until the introduction of the Datsun 280ZX at the end of 1978.

History of Z-Series

History

Nissan was a relatively small company that had visions of greatness. In the early 1960s, Nissan had partnered with Yamaha to design a new sports car prototype. As no strangers to the sports car game, company executives rightfully saw it as a halo car that would improve its image in the minds of consumers. By 1964 Nissan realized that Yamaha's DOHC 2.0-liter engine was not meeting Nissan's expectations and the project was scrapped. Yamaha then later finished a prototype and took their design to Toyota, and the result was the building of the Toyota 2000GT. Yutaka Katayama, the president of Nissan USA at the time, had realized the importance of an affordable sports car. Nissan had already produced the successful series of Fairlady roadsters that competed against English and Italian roadsters, and product planners envisioned a new line of GT cars that would be stylish, innovative, fast, and relatively inexpensive by sharing parts among other Nissan vehicles. Prototype work began in 1966 with a clay mockup. The 240Z design project was primarily comprised of 10 people.

• Mr. Yutaka Katayama (President of Nissan USA, known as "Mr. K")
• Mr. Teiichi Hara (Manager, Nissan Design and Development)
• Mr. Kazumi Yotsurnoto (Manager, Passenger Car Styling Section}
• Mr. Yoshihiko Matsuo (Chief of Design, Styling Studio #4)
• Mr. Akio Yoshida (Assistant Designer on Exterior Design)
• Mr. Sue Chiba (Interior Design)
• Mr. Eiichi Oiwa (Styling Studio Assistant)
• Mr. Kiichi Nishikawa (Styling Studio Assistant)
• Mr. Hidemi Kamahara (Design Engineer)
• Mr. Tsuneo Benitani (Design Engineer)

350Z Special Edition

Type E (2004)

A limited run (only 5 units) called the Type E was produced in Japan in order to meet homologation requirements to compete in the Super GT series. The Type-E featured a longer nose and rear overhang as well as a few extra aerodynamic aids.

Engine is rated at 206 kW (280 PS) @ 6200 rpm, 363 N·m (37.0 kgf·m) @ 4800 rpm ^[7]

Gran Turismo 4 Limited Edition

Set for limited release Spring 2009 only in Europe, Nissan 350Z Gran Turismo 4 Limited Edition will feature the Nissan 350Z, in Sunshine Yellow and Black body colors, as its focus. Only 700 copies of this collectors' item will be released. The unique coupe with 3.5 liter engine has now 300hp (20hp more than original) at 6400rpm, but the red line starts at 7000rpm. ^[8]

35th Anniversary Edition (2005)

To commemorate the 35th anniversary of the début of Datsun 240Z, Nissan released a tuned version of the 350Z coupe. The 35th Anniversary Z was débuted 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 went on sale in January 2005.^[9]

35th Anniversary Edition includes an uprated 300 hp (220 kW) V6 engine for the 6-speed manual transmission model. Other key 35th Anniversary Z equipment (standard on both 6-speed manual and 5-speed automatic equipped versions) includes unique 18-inch (460 mm) cast aluminium-alloy wheels, front and rear spoilers, Brembo brakes and special Z badging. The car comes in a variety of unique colours including "Ultra Yellow", "Super Black" body colours.

ST Type G (2006)

In 2006-01-12, Nissan announced the sale of ST Type G for Japanese market. This version features 19 inches (480 mm) rear tires (245/40R18 93W front, 265/35R19 94W rear), front & rear fender mouldings (+25mm), RAYS alloy wheels, and exclusive interior leather color.

The ST Type G cost 4,273,500 yen for 6 speed manual, and 4,326,000 yen for 5 speed automatic.^[10]

GT-S

During the 2006 Goodwood Festival of Speed, Nissan Technical Centre Europe (NTCE) unveiled the 350Z GT-S concept.^[11] The GT-S featured a unique radial flow supercharger (that could be turned on or off via a switch on the dashboard), raising engine output to 382.6 bhp (285.3 kW) and 424.8 Nm without modifications to the engine components. The car also featured new body kit for more cooling and downforce and wider 245 and 265/40/18 tires. No plans for production have been revealed, although there have been some hints that the package may be offered as an upgrade kit. The car has been tested favourably against its possible production rivals, the Porsche Cayman S and BMW Z4 M.^[12]

Auto Express magazine reported the GT-S would be on sale in UK for £36,000, but it has yet to be produced.^[13]

NISMO Editions

Nissan's performance tuning division, NISMO, began producing modified versions of the 350Z shortly after its introduction, although in the UK these were only available one year after the car was launched.^{[citation needed]}

NISMO R-Tune (2004)

The R-Tune was introduced into the NISMO line-up with modifications including headers, cams, pulleys. The R-Tune voids the Nissan factory warranty,^{[citation needed]} but gains significant horsepower, intended for track racers.

Engine is rated 305 hp (227 kW)

NISMO S-Tune GT (2005)

Modified Nissan 350Z S-Tune GT at the 2006 Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show

The S-Tune GT was released by NISMO to celebrate its success in motorsport, particularly in the Super GT series. The S-Tune GT featured revised long nose bodywork as in the Type-E, a modified version of the VQ35DE engine called the S1 with more power (300 PS / 221 kW / 296 hp) and higher redline (7200 rpm), as well as a sportier NISMO suspension.

20 were produced each month in Japan. Although Nissan did not officially sell S-Tune in UK, Nissan Motor (GB) Ltd. imported 1 S-Tune GT to UK^[14]

NISMO 380RS (Nismo 350Z - 2007-Present)

This edition of the 350Z Coupe debuted in New York International Auto Show on April 4, 2007. This version featured the same engine as the regular 350Z (VQ35HR), but produces 313 HP (Redline at 7500 rpm of full 9000rpm) for both 5-speed automatic and 6-speed manual transmission. The car featured NISMO aerodynamics package based on the Super GT championship car, which included an aggressive front fascia with chin spoiler, side skirts, an extended rear fascia with under body diffuser and a rear wing. The car also had NISMO-tuned independent multi-link suspension, Brembo brakes with four-piston front and two-piston rear calipers (with 12.8-inch (330 mm) front and 12.7-inch (320 mm) rear rotors) and NISMO-branded gunmetal grey RAYS alloy wheels (18x9-inch front and 19x10-inch rear with 245/40WR18 front, 265/35WR19 rear Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires), and NISMO-branded tuned exhaust. All Nismo versions are "Ready For Track" with the safety equipment in it.

NISMO 350Z went on sale in the US in July 2007 at Nissan dealers.^[15][16] 1500 were produced for the '07 and '08 model year, and it is assumed that if the demand is there that more will be produced, limited to 10% of all 350Z sales. The vehicle had MSRP of $38,070 for the '07 model year.

NISMO Type 380RS (2007)

Released as the road version for Japanese market of the Type 380RS-Competition race car , it includes the VQ35HR engine stroked and bored to 3.8-litre, rated 257 kW (350 PS/350 hp) @ 7200 rpm and 397 N·m (40.5 kgf·m/293 lbf·ft) @ 4800 rpm torque. Brembo disc brakes are fitted, as are Bridgestone Potenza RE-01R tires (245/40R18 in front, 275/35R19 in the rear) with RAYS wheels. Front and rear dampers come from Yamaha.

NISMO Type 380RS is priced 5.397 million (5.14 million+tax) yen ($38695 USD).^[17] Only 300 cars were produced.^[18]

NISMO Type 380RS-Competition

It is the race car for which NISMO Type 380RS is based. The 3798 cc engine rated 294 kW (400 PS) at 7500 rpm and 421 Nm (43 kgm) at 5200 rpm torque. This in turn is based on the GT 500 race car that Nissan enters into the Super GT championship.

According to Nissan, the race car cost 26.25 million yen.^[19]

5th generation (1999–2002)

Fifth generation

Production	1999-2002
Assembly	Tochigi, Tochigi, Japan
Body style(s)	2-door coupe
Layout	Front engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive
Engine(s)	2.6 L I6
Transmission(s)	6-speed manual

The GT-BNR34 (R34) Skyline GT-R and GT-R V-spec models were released in January 1999. The R34 GT-R was also made to be shorter (from front to rear), and the front wheels were made closer to the front. The valve covers were also painted glossy red, rather than dull black.

A new feature on the R34 GT-R is a 5.8" LCD multifunction display on the center of the dashboard, which shows seven different live readings of engine and vehicle statistics such as turbocharger pressure (1.2 bar max), oil and water temperature, among others. The GT-R V-spec model added two extra features to the display: intake and exhaust gas temperatures. Special order Nismo Multi-function Displays (MFD) included a lap timer and an increase in boost pressure measurement to 2 bar. R34 rears are longer than previous models.

Like the R33, the new R34 GT-R V-spec models come equipped with the ATTESA E-TS Pro system and an Active LSD at the rear, while standard GT-R models come with the non-Pro system and a conventional mechanical differential. The V-spec model also had firmer suspension, and lower ground clearance. The V-spec model also included a plastic front air diffuser (covering the underside of the engine), and also a rear carbon fiber air diffuser, designed to keep air flowing smoothly under the car.

Another special model of the R34 GT-R is the M-spec. It was similar to the V-spec, but had special "Ripple control" dampers and a leather interior with heated front seats.

At the time of the R34's release, like the R32 and R33, Nissan released an R34 N1 model. The R34 GT-R N1 was equipped similar to the R32 and R33 N1 models - a homologation special. It was sold without ABS, air conditioning, audio equipment, rear wiper, or carpet in the trunk. The new R34 N1 was also given the new R34 N1 engine. Only 45 R34 N1 models were produced from the factory, 12 of which were used by Nismo for Super Taikyu racing. The rest were sold to various customers, mostly racing teams, and tuning garages.

In August 2000, Nissan released a newer V-Spec II GT-R model. The V-Spec II has increased stiffness in the suspension (even stiffer than the original V-spec) and had larger brake rotors on the rear. It also comes equipped with a carbon fiber hood, which is lighter than the aluminum that all other GT-R hoods are made from. Also different on the V-Spec II was an iridium center console and aluminium pedals. The seats were also made with black cloth rather than the gray cloth used on previous R34 GT-R models, and the amber turn lenses were replaced with white versions. From this point on the standard trim level GT-Rs and V-Specs also received these updates, with the exception of the carbon fiber bonnet.

In February 2002 Nissan released a final production model of the R34 GT-R called the Nür. Nissan also released a limited Manufacturer Special model designated the M-Spec. This came in two forms, the base M-Spec, and the Nür. The Nür was sold in 2 different models: the Skyline GT-R V-spec II Nür and the previously mentioned Skyline GT-R M-spec Nür. The Nür was named after the famous German Nürburgring racetrack, where the Skyline was developed. The Nür model featured an improved RB26DETT based on the N1 racing engine, used by Nismo in Motorsports. The V-spec II Nür is based on the regular V-spec II model, and the M-spec Nür was based on the regular M-spec model. Other than the addition of the Nür engine, the Nür models also included a different color of stitching on the interior trim, as well as a speedometer reading up to 300 km/h (186 mph).

Production figures

Standard Cars = 3,964
V-Spec = 7,301
N1 Race Version = 45^[11]
Total = 11,310

Nissan 350Z

Nissan 350Z

Manufacturer	Nissan
Also called	Nissan Fairlady Z
Assembly	Oppama, Japan (2002-2003) Tochigi, Tochigi Japan (2004-present)
Predecessor	Nissan 300ZX
Successor	Nissan 370Z
Class	Sports car / Roadster
Body style(s)	2-door coupe / 2-door roadster
Layout	FMR layout
Platform	Nissan FM platform
Engine(s)	2003-2004 3.5 L (210 cu in) VQ35DE V6 287 bhp (214 kW) 274 ft·lbf (371 N·m) 2005 (35th Anv & Track) 3.5 L (210 cu in) VQ35DE RevUp V6 300 bhp (220 kW) 260 ft·lbf (350 N·m) 2006 3.5 L (210 cu in) VQ35DE RevUp V6 300 bhp (220 kW) 260 ft·lbf (350 N·m) 2007-present 3.5 L (210 cu in) VQ35HR V6 306 bhp (228 kW) 268 ft·lbf (363 N·m)
Transmission(s)	5-speed automatic 6-speed manual
Wheelbase	2,649 mm (104.3 in)
Length	2003-05: 4,303 mm (169.4 in) 2006-08: 4,314 mm (169.8 in)
Width	1,816 mm (71.5 in)
Height	2003-05 Hatchback: 1,318 mm (51.9 in) Roadster: 1,328 mm (52.3 in) 2006-08 Hatchback: 1,324 mm (52.1 in) Roadster: 1,334 mm (52.5 in)
Curb weight	3,188 lb (1,446 kg) - 3,602 lb (1,634 kg)
Fuel capacity	76 L (20 US gal)[1]
Related	Infiniti G35 Nissan Skyline
Designer	Ajay Panchal

The Nissan 350Z was a two seat sports car manufactured by Nissan Motor Co, LTD. The 350Z is the fifth generation of Nissan's Z-car line, originally introduced in 1969 (as a 1970 model year) as the Datsun 240Z. The 350Z entered production in late 2002 and was sold and marketed as a 2003 model. It was currently available in several trim packages and is sold as both a coupé and roadster. It was Nissan's only sports car from 2003-08 for North America (and it was the first North American Nissan sports car since the 1998 240SX and 200SX), when the 2009 GT-R and its successor, the 2010 370Z would replace the 350Z as the brand's sole sports cars.

Background

After the Nissan 300ZX was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 1996, Nissan initially tried to keep the Z name alive by re-creating the 240Z the following year. The car was conceived by Nissan's North American design team in their free time, and the concept was introduced in a four state Road Show in July 1998 to various car media, dealers and employees. Yutaka Katayama, regarded as the "Father of the Z" unveiled the Z concept sketch to the public when he received a motor industry award. The design, representing a modern vision of the 240Z, did not please the original 240Z designer Yoshihiko Matsuo, who compared it to the Bluebird and Leopard^[2][3]

The first concept model was produced for the Detroit Motor Show for the following January then later at the Los Angeles Auto Expo. Nissan was unhappy with the first design as they felt the original 200 bhp (150 kW) 2.4L engine known as the KA24DE that was going to be assigned made the car more underpowered, they also felt the car was considered too "retro" or too "backward" resembling a futuristic 240Z thus a redesign was commissioned. During a press conference in February 2000, president Carlos Ghosn announced plans to produce the car as he felt the new model would help to assist the company's recovery.^[4]

A redesigned model, the Z Concept, was unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show two years later, which was similar in body shape but with a new front end. The car then underwent a minor redesign and was eventually assigned the VQ35DE engine, hence becoming known as the 350Z. The car would break its tradition of being of the first Z not to be produced at the Shatai plant.^[5]

Design and layout

The 350Z is a front engine rear-wheel-drive two door sports car designed by Ajay Panchal of Nissan Design America (San Diego, California).^[6]

The vehicle features the long-hood short-deck design common to the Z-Car family. Currently, external design highlights include: sloping fastback style roof line, unique brushed aluminium door handles, high waistline, and bulging fenders that are pushed out to the corners of the vehicle.

Interior cabin design is straight forward with brushed aluminium accents. The main gauge pod is mounted directly to the steering column allowing their movement to coincide with steering wheel adjustments. Additional gauges are mounted in a centre triple gauge cluster. The 350Z’s interior does not have a conventional glove box, instead it makes use of various storage compartments located either behind or between the two seats.

4th generation (1995–1998)

Fourth generation

Production	1995-1998
Assembly	Tochigi, Tochigi, Japan
Body style(s)	2-door coupe 4-door sedan (Autech & NISMO version only)
Layout	Front engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive
Engine(s)	2.6 L I6
Transmission(s)	5-speed manual

The E-BCNR33 (R33) was developed in 1995 as a successor to the venerable R32 model. The engine in the R33 was nearly identical to the R32. It used the same turbochargers and the same specification for the manual gearbox, although the syncros were made to be stronger. The engine corrected the R32's weak oil pump drive collar, which tended to fail in higher power applications, with a wider collar. The R33 engine also introduced a mechanical advance on the intake camshaft improving torque slightly. The base model R33 GT-R weighs 1540 kg.^[9]

The R33 GT-R launched in January 1995 with the base model GT-R and the V-spec model. The V-spec model weighed in 10 kg (22 lb) heavier, and had sportier suspension resulting in lower ground clearance. The V-spec also featured the newer ATTESA E-TS Pro all wheel drive system, which included an Active Limited Slip differential. The V-spec model also included a four wheel independent channel anti-lock braking system.

At the same time as the release of the R33 GT-R, and GT-R V-spec, Nissan released an R33 GT-R V-spec N1 model. Changes on the R33 N1 model are similar to the R32 N1 model. The car was made lighter, by removing the ABS, air conditioning, sound system, rear wiper, and the trunk carpet. The R33 GT-R V-spec N1 received the slightly revised R33 N1 engine.

A NISMO 400R. Only less than 50 models were built.

A special edition R33 was released on November 3, 1997. The car was called the 400R, with R standing for Racing. Developed with Nismo, it featured an overbored RB26DETT engine, the RBX-GT2, with polished ports, an upgraded exhaust, composite parts, a twin-plate clutch, and a more free flowing turbo and intercooler system. Nismo brake pads were also fitted in the car. Updated aerodynamics were also done such as a new front bumper with bigger air scoops, wider fenders, side skirts, rear bumper, and a redesigned bonnet & rear-spoiler made of carbon. The 400R was also fitted with 18x10 NISMO LM-GT1s. The car developed 400 horsepower and 347 lbs-tq, which allowed a top speed of over 186 mph (300 km/h), and enabled it to reach 0-97 km/h in 4.0 seconds. Although originally, Nismo planned on producing 100 units of the 400R; but Nismo only managed to make 44 units when the production line for the R33 ended in 1998.^[10]

A limited 4 door version of the R33 Skyline GT-R was produced to celebrate Nissan's 40th anniversary. The car was produced by Autech and Nismo, both tuning subsidiaries of Nissan.

Production figures

Standard Cars = 9,872
V-Spec = 6,551
Autech-Version = 447
Total = 16,422
(Figures Include N1 and LM Limited Versions)

3rd generation (1989–1994)

Third generation

Production	1989-1994
Assembly	Tochigi, Tochigi, Japan
Body style(s)	2-door coupe
Layout	Front engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive
Engine(s)	2.6 L I6
Transmission(s)	5-speed manual

Concept

After canceling the Skyline GT-R marque in 1973, Nissan revived the GT-R again in 1989. At the time Nissan was competing in Group A Racing with the 1988 Nissan Skyline GTS-R. Nismo wanted to retire the GTS-R in favor of a more competitive vehicle. The Nissan Skyline E-BNR32 chassis (commonly shortened to R32) had just been designed, and was chosen as a base to build a more competitive Group A race car.

Nismo originally designed the new R32 Group A Skyline to have a 2350 cc Straight 6 turbocharged engine, and produce 313 horsepower (230 kW) using a RWD drivetrain. Under Group A regulations, a turbocharged engine must multiply its engine displacement by 1.7, putting the new Skyline in the 4000 cc class, and requiring the use of 10-inch-wide tires. Knowing that they would be required to use 10-inch-wide tires, Nismo made the decision to make the car all wheel drive. Nismo developed a special motorsport-oriented AWD system for this purpose called the ATTESA E-TS. Although this assisted with traction, it made the car 100 kg (220 lb) heavier; the added weight put the GT-R at a disadvantage to other cars in the 4000 cc class. Nismo then made the decision to increase the displacement to 2600 cc, and put the car in the 4500 cc class, with the car's weight near-equal to competing cars. The 4500 cc class also allowed for 11-inch-wide tires.

Production

This new 2.6 L all wheel drive concept, designed by Nismo, was put into production by Nissan as the R32 Nissan Skyline GT-R. The R32 developed 206 kW (276 hp) and 266 lb/s (360Nm) of torque, it had a curb weight of 1430kg (3146 lbs). Initial production of the car was the required 5000 to allow for homologation starting on May 22, 1989 which with critical acclaim by the motoring press along with heavy demand for the car, Nissan opted to allow an unlimited production run which went on sale to the public in August 1989, and began its Group A campaign in 1990. Due to strict Group A homologation rules, Nissan was required to also sell a series of the Skyline GT-R which more accurately reflected the car they use in Group A racing. This series was called the Skyline GT-R 'Nismo' edition.

The Skyline GT-R 'Nismo', introduced in February 22, 1990, has a total production of 560 units as required for the "Evolution" models regulation (over 500). Its purpose is to homologate a number of aerodynamic changes used in Group A racing. Changes include additional ducts in the front bumper to improve airflow to the intercooler, a bonnet lip spoiler to direct more air into the engine bay, and an additional boot lip spoiler to provide more downforce. The 'Nismo' GT-R was only available in Gunmetal Grey.

A rear view of an R32, showing the traditional four round taillights.

The Skyline GT-R 'N1' model, introduced on July 19, 1991, was designed for home-market N1 racing with a total of 228 units produced. The most notable change was in the engine, which was upgraded to the R32-N1 specification. The car was also lightened by the removal of the ABS, air conditioning, sound system, rear wiper, trunk carpet, and the use of light-weight headlights. No color options were available and all 'N1' cars were delivered with a thin layer of Crystal White paint.

To celebrate the success of the GT-R in both Group N and Group A racing, Nissan introduced the Skyline GT-R V-Spec ("Victory Specification") car on February 3, 1993. The V-Spec added Brembo brakes and a retuned ATTESA E-TS system to the Nismo and N1 packages, as well as 17" BBS wheels with 225/45/17 tires. The V-Spec has a list price of ¥ 5.260 million.

Finally on February 14, 1994 the Skyline GT-R V-Spec II was released, with the only change being wider 245/45/17 tires. In addition, both the V-Spec and V-Spec II had a curb weight of 1480kg (3256 lbs), weighing only 50kg more than the standard GT-R.^[8] Total production of the V-Spec I and II was 1,453 and 1,303 units respectively.

Total production of the R32 Skyline GT-R was 43,394 units, with production starting on May 22, 1989. An above average proportion of the GTR's were sold in white: this is likely due to the fact that white is the national racing color of Japan in international motorsport.

Production figures

Standard Cars = 40,390
NISMO Group A Evolution = 560
V-Spec = 1,453
V-Spec II = 1,303
N1 Race Version = 228
Total = 43,934

2nd generation (1972-1977)

Second generation

Production	1972-1977
Assembly	Tochigi, Tochigi, Japan
Body style(s)	4-door sedan 2-door coupe
Layout	FR layout
Engine(s)	1989 cc I6
Transmission(s)	5-speed manual

The KPGC10's successor, the C110, was released in 1973 after its introduction at the 1972 Tokyo motor show. Powered by a 1989 cc I6 S20 engine, the second generation GT-R delivered power to the rear wheels through a 5-speed manual gearbox. The suspension was a semi-trailing ring arm setup and minor aerodynamic parts were added.

This edition of the GT-R was also known as the "Ken & Mary" Skyline, due to a popular advertisement featuring a young couple (Ken and Mary) enjoying the Hokkaido countryside. The advertisement later spawned a hit song by Buzz, and the tree featured in the advertisement later became a minor star itself.

Unfortunately, the second generation GT-R was unsuccessful, for a gas crisis hit in the early 1970s, drying out any demand for high-performance sports cars. A total of 197 cars were built by the end of its short production run. For the next decade, this would be the last GT-R until the production of the R32 in 1989.

1st generation (1969-1972)

First generation

Production	1969-1972
Assembly	Tochigi, Tochigi, Japan Oppama, Japan
Body style(s)	4-door sedan 2-door coupe
Layout	FR layout
Engine(s)	2.0L 160 brake horsepower (120 kW) I6
Transmission(s)	5-speed manual

The first Skyline GT-R, known by the internal Nissan designation PGC10, was released in February 4, 1969. It was available originally as a four-door sedan after a public debut at the 15th annual Tokyo Motor Show. It was advertised alongside the Nissan R380A racecar to showcase its racing heraldry. It was equipped with the 2.0 L DOHC S20 I6 producing 160 hp (120 kW) at 7000 rpm and 118 N·m (87 ft·lbf) of torque. Power was delivered to the rear wheels by a 5-speed manual transmission. The first Skyline GT-R rode on a semi-trailing arm strut suspension. It was available as a coupe in March 1971 with the chassis code KPGC10.

A popular name for the PGC and KPGC10 Skyline GT-R was "Hakosuka," which is a combination of the Japanese word for box ("hako" or ハコ) and the pronounced abbreviation of skyline ("Suka" or スカ as in スカイライン or "sukairain").

A total of 1,945 PGC and KPGC10 Skyline GT-R's were produced.

History of Skyline Brand

History of the brand

The Skyline name originated from Prince automobile company, which developed and sold the Skyline line of sedans before merging with Nissan-Datsun. The GT-R abbreviation stands for Gran Turismo Racer while the GT-B stands for Gran Turismo Berlinetta. The Japanese chose to use English when naming the car — as most cars made in Japan at that time used American abbreviation — to further enhance sales. The earliest predecessor of the GT-R, the S54 2000 GT-B, came second in its first race in 1964 to the purpose-built Porsche 904 GTS. The next development of the GT-R, the four-door PGC10 2000 GT-R, scored 33 victories in the one and a half years it raced, and by the time it attempted its 50th consecutive win, its run was ended by a Mazda Savanna RX-3. The car took 1000 victories by the time it was discontinued in 1972. The last of the original GT-Rs, the KPGC110 2000GT-R, used an unchanged S20 160 hp (120 kW) inline-6 engine from the earlier 2000 GT-R and only sold 197 units due to the worldwide energy crisis. This model was the only GT-R to never participate in a major race despite the sole purpose-built racecar which now resides in Nissan's storage unit for historical cars in Zama.

The Skyline continued into the 1990s when it became popular largely because it remained rear wheel drive, while most other manufacturers were focusing on front wheel drive cars.

Throughout its lifetime, various special editions containing additional performance-enhancing modifications, were released by Nissan and its performance division Nismo (Nissan Motorsport).

Nissan Skyline GT-R

The Nissan Skyline GT-R was a Japanese sports car based on the Nissan Skyline range.

The first GT-Rs were produced from 1969-1977. After a 16 year hiatus since the KPGC110 in 1972, the GT-R name was revived in 1989 with the Skyline R32. The R32 GT-R surprisingly dominated the motorsport in Japan, winning a 29 straight victories out of 29 races. The GT-R proceeded to win the JTC Group A series championship 4 years in a row, earning the name "Godzilla". It also had success in the Australian Touring Car Championship winning from 1990-1992, until the GT-R was outlawed in 1993.^[1]

The Skyline GT-R became the flagship of Nissan performance, showcasing many advanced technologies including the ATTESA-ETS 4WD system and the Super-HICAS four-wheel steering. The GT-Rs remained inexpensive compared to its European rivals, with a list-price of ¥ 4.5 million (US$ 31,000). Today, the car is popular for import Drag Racing, Circuit Track, Time Attack and events hosted by tuning magazines. The GT-R actually is the winner in the 2007 Tsukuba Time Attack held in Japan-- the M-Speed GT-R ( 9 out of the top 15 cars consists of GT-Rs ). Production of the GT-R officially ceased in August 2002.

Although the Skyline GT-R was never manufactured or sold outside of Japan, the car has become an iconic sports car, including in countries from the Western World (mainly the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and Canada).^[2][3][4] It has become notable through pop culture such as cinema and video games like the The Fast and the Furious and Gran Turismo.

The car was named by BBC's Top Gear as the only true Japanese contribution in the line of Supercars.^[5] The car was also named by the main presenter of the show, Jeremy Clarkson as one of the best cars in the world.^[6][7]

Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34)

Manufacturer	Nissan
Production	1969-1977 1989-2002

History of Nissan Motors - Part 6

Non-automotive products

Nissan has also had a number of ventures outside the automotive industry, most notably the Tu-Ka mobile phone service (est. 1994), which was sold to DDI and Japan Telecom (both now merged into KDDI Corporation) in 1999. Nissan also owns Nissan Marine, a joint venture with Tohatsu Corp that produces motors for boats and other maritime equipment.

Manufacturing locations

Data extracted from Nissan's international corporate website^[28].

World locations of Nissan Motors factories

• Japan
  • Oppama, Yokosuka, Kanagawa (Oppama Plant & Research Center)
  • Kaminokawa, Tochigi (Tochigi Plant)
  • Kanda, Fukuoka (Kyushu Plant)
  • Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa (Yokohama Plant)
  • Iwaki, Fukushima (Iwaki Plant)
  • Hiratsuka, Kanagawa (Nissan Shatai Shonan Plant)
  • Nagoya, Aichi (Aichi Machine Industry Atsuta & Eitoku Plants)
  • Matsusaka, Mie (Aichi Machine Industry Matsusaka Plant)
  • Tsu, Mie (Aichi Machine Industry Tsu Plant)
  • Uji, Kyoto (Auto Works Kyoto)
  • Ageo, Saitama (Nissan Diesel Motor, currently owned by the Volvo Group)
  • Samukawa, Kanagawa (Nissan Kohki)
  • Zama, Kanagawa (Zama Plant closed in 1995, currently Global Production Engineering Center and storage unit for its historic models)
• Brazil
  • São José dos Pinhais, Paraná
• Indonesia
  • Cikampek, West Java
• Iran
  • Karaj, Tehran
• Malaysia
  • Segambut, Kuala Lumpur
  • Serendah, Selangor
• Mexico
  • Aguascalientes, Aguascalientes
  • Cuernavaca, CIVAC
• Philippines
  • Santa Rosa City, Laguna
• South Africa
  • Rosslyn
• Spain
  • Barcelona
  • Ávila
• Thailand
  • Bangna, Samutprakarn
• Taiwan
  • Taipei
• United Kingdom
  • Sunderland, North East
• United States
  • Smyrna, Tennessee
  • Canton, Mississippi
  • Decherd, Tennessee

History of Nissan Motors - Part 5

Leadership

Presidents and Chief Executive Officers of Nissan:

• 1933-1939 Yoshisuke Aikawa
• 1939-1942 Masasuke Murakami
• 1942-1944 Genshichi Asahara
• 1944-1945 Haruto Kudo
• 1945 Takeshi Murayama
• 1945-1947 Souji Yamamoto
• 1947-1951 Taichi Minoura
• 1951-1957 Genshichi Asahara
• 1957-1973 Katsuji Kawamata
• 1973-1977 Tadahiro Iwakoshi
• 1977-1985 Takashi Ishihara
• 1985-1992 Yutaka Kume
• 1992-1996 Yoshifume Tsuji
• 1996-2000 Yoshikazu Hanawa
• 2000-present Carlos Ghosn

Products

Automotive products

Main articles: List of Nissan vehicles and List of Nissan engines.

Nissan has produced an extensive range of mainstream cars and trucks, initially for domestic consumption but exported around the world since the 1950s. There was a major strike in 1953.

It also produced several memorable sports cars, including the Datsun Fairlady 1500, 1600 and 2000 Roadsters, the Z-car, an affordable sports car originally introduced in 1969; and the GT-R, a powerful all-wheel-drive sports coupe.

In 1985, Nissan created a tuning division, NISMO, for competition and performance development of such cars.Nismo's latest model is the 350Z LM.

The recently launched mid-sized Nissan Navara truck has 175 bhp (130 kW).

Until 1982, Nissan automobiles in most export markets were sold under the Datsun brand. Since 1989, Nissan has sold its luxury models in North America under the Infiniti brand.

Nissan also sells a small range of keicars, mainly as a joint venture with other Japanese manufacturers like Suzuki or Mitsubishi. Nissan does not develop these cars. Nissan also has shared model development of Japanese domestic cars with other manufacturers, particularly Mazda, Subaru, Suzuki and Isuzu.

In China, Nissan produces cars in association with the Dongfeng Motor Group including the 2006 Nissan Livina Geniss. This is the first in the range of a new worldwide family of medium sized cars and is to make its world debut at the Guangzhou International Motor Show.

Nissan launches Qashqai SUV in South Africa, along with their new motorsport Qashqai Car Games.

Electric vehicles

Carlos Ghosn, chief executive of Nissan Motor, which is 44% owned by Renault, plans to start selling electric cars in 2012 as the company anticipates demand from city drivers. "It would be good date for both for Renault and Nissan" to introduce mass-market electric cars, Ghosn told a group of journalists at the Tokyo Motor Show on Wednesday October 24, 2007.^[16][17]

Renault-Nissan Motors alliance is in the Advisory Council of the PHEV Research Center.

Nissan Motor and Robert Bosch GmbH are in talks to form a comprehensive alliance in hybrid systems and parts.^[18]

When Nissan launches its new line of electrical vehicles in America in 2010, it will initially target fleet buyers, which can provide their own charging stations. "It will be a real business," says Tom Lane, Nissan's global product-planning chief, "not just a way to sell 200 cars in California." He expects sales to retail buyers to begin in 2012, at a price of around $25,000. ^[19]

Nissan is also hedging its bets by developing both a "parallel hybrid" system (akin to that found in the Toyota Prius) and a plug-in "series hybrid" similar to the Chevy Volt. But it favours the all-electric approach, even though it will be a tough sell, says Mr Lane. As for Mr Ghosn, he has no doubts. "We must have zero-emission vehicles," he says. "Nothing else will prevent the world from exploding." ^[19]

Nissan Motor Company, Ltd. aims to profit from the next generation of plug-in hybrid vehicles. In April, the company launched a joint venture with NEC Corporation and its subsidiary, NEC TOKIN Corporation, to develop and mass produce advanced lithium-ion batteries. On May 19, the new company, called Automotive Energy Supply Corporation (AESC), began full operations. The new company will invest $114.6 million over a three-year period in a manufacturing facility that will start producing 13,000 batteries per year in 2009. At full capacity, the plant will manufacture 65,000 batteries per year. ^[20]

The batteries employ a compact laminated configuration with lithium-manganese electrodes, which NEC TOKIN will manufacture at a separate facility through an additional investment of $105.1 million over the next three years. AESC intends to install the batteries in electric forklifts next year, and Nissan plans to use the batteries in both a hybrid and an all-electric vehicle starting in 2010. Nissan claims that the batteries deliver twice as much power as the nickel-metal hydride batteries used in today's hybrid vehicles. In field tests exceeding 60,000 miles (97,000 km), the batteries have demonstrated high performance without any safety problems, according to the company. ^[21]

In January 2008, Hiro Nakamura, Nissan's global design director stated that the Nissan Cube will be coming to the U.S. market as the Nissan Denki Cube.Making its debut at the March 2008 New York International Auto Show, the U.S.-bound Cube is a plug-in hybrid that will get 37 mpg–U.S. (6.36 L/100 km / 44.4 mpg–imp) and will be equipped with "e-4WD", which includes an electric motor operating (when demand dictates) alongside the gasoline engine. The Nissan’s Denki Cube's U.S. release is scheduled to occur in early 2009. ^[22]

Nissan plans a production hybrid electric vehicle to be introduced in 2010, not based on any current Nissan model. Nissan's original hybrid-electric delivered two breakthrough technologies a high-performance rear- wheel-drive hybrid system and a parallel-power-train hybrid system. The hybrid employs Nissan's own originally developed hybrid technology and its first rear-wheel-drive hybrid power-train ^[23].

Nissan is developing a plug-in hybrid vehicle that could hit the market after the debut of its electric cars in 2010.^[24]

Carlos Ghosn, said that the French-Japanese partnership will supply the state of Oregon with electric cars starting late in 2010 the latest in a series of agreements aimed at encouraging demand for the ultra-clean vehicles. The Renault-Nissan alliance formed a similar deal with Tennessee earlier this year to establish the conditions to encourage the use of electric cars in the central part of the state where Nissan has its U.S. headquarters. The alliance also has concluded accords with Israel, Portugal, Denmark, Spain, France and a prefecture in Japan^[25] .

Nissan Nuvu

Nissan Nuvu is a compact all-electric city car with 2+1 seating, with solar panels shaped like tree leaves on the roof that channel the sun's power through a "tree trunk" conduit in the center of the vehicle. It can hit about 75 mph (121 km/h) and travel up to about 80 miles (130 km) on a electric charge^{[26] [27]} .