Concept Car Of The Day: 1999 Nissan Z Concept - AllCarIndex
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The Nissan Z Concept was unveiled at the 1999 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The designers at Nissan Design International, Inc. (NDI) were faced with the challenge of creating a new concept car that would pay homage to the original Z-car that had been around for three decades. The goal was to take elements from the original design and incorporate them into a fresh new look. The result was a design that captured the essence of the original Z-car while still being modern and innovative.
The Z Concept featured a long hood, sweeping front fenders, and unique headlight treatment that hinted at the lines of the original 240Z. The two-passenger cabin had wide doors that were electronically opened, tinted glass, and a mix of cloth and leather trim. The rear of the car had a glass hatch, wraparound taillights, and 18-inch alloy wheels that were mounted with high-performance tires.
Under the hood, the Z Concept was powered by a 2.4-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine that produced 200 horsepower and 180 ft-lbs of torque. The car also had a 5-speed manual transmission, custom exhaust system, and racing-style brakes. The Z Concept was fully operational and went from drawings to a running vehicle in just under 12 weeks.
The original 240Z was introduced in the U.S. in 1970 and was an instant hit. The car featured sleek styling, a powerful engine, and impressive performance at an affordable price. The Z-car went on to become one of the fastest-selling sports cars of all time, with a strong racing pedigree in various competitions.
Throughout the years, the Z-car continued to evolve, with new models being introduced and racing victories being achieved. The 300ZX was the last model of the Z-car to be imported into the U.S., with the car retiring in 1996. However, the legacy of the Z-car lived on and culminated in the creation of the Z Concept, a modern interpretation of the iconic sports car.
The Z Concept truly went 'Back to Basics' to recreate the quintessential affordable sports car that captured the hearts of enthusiasts for decades. The designers at NDI were proud to bring back a legend and honor the legacy of the Z-car with their innovative concept.
