Nissan has unveiled the Z Proto concept at a virtual event streamed from the Nissan Pavilion in Yokohama, Japan.
The prototype features a twin-turbocharged V6 engine paired to a manual transmission. It signals Nissan’s intent to launch a new generation of the legendary Z sports car.
BACK TO THE FUTURE
The Nissan Z Proto boasts a fresh exterior design with a silhouette that harks back to the early Z models.
Its bright yellow pearlescent paint is a further tribute to a popular paint scheme on both the first generation Z (S30) and the 300ZX (Z32).
The shape of the bonnet and the canted, teardrop-shaped LED headlights are also both reminders of the original Z. Meanwhile, the rectangular grille’s dimensions are similar to the current model’s, with the addition of oval grille fins for an updated look.
The Nissan Z Proto traces its lineage to the early Z models with its roofline and squared-off rear.
The link to the original Z is most striking when viewing the Nissan Z Proto from the side. Its roofline flows from the nose to the squared-off rear.
This creates a distinctive “first-generation Z” profile, which had a rear edge that was slightly lower than the front fender.
The signature transition from the rear quarter glass to the low-slung position of the rear tail adds to the effect.
The rear is inspired by the 300ZX’s (Z32) tail-lights. Set within a rectangular black section that runs across the rear and wraps around the outer edges, they convey a sharp glow.
The rear of the car takes inspiration from the 300ZX’s taillights.
Lightweight carbon fibre treatments on the side skirts, front lower lip and rear valance ensure nimble performance. Road presence is guaranteed thanks to the 19-inch alloy wheels and dual exhausts of the Nissan Z Proto.
MODERN TECH MEETS VINTAGE DESIGN
The cabin of the Nissan Z Proto has been designed to fit both driver and passenger like a glove, while seamlessly blending modern technology with vintage Z touches.
The design team sought advice from professional motorsports legends to give the Z Proto an ideal sports car cabin, both for road and track.
Yellow accents and a driver-oriented layout for the cabin of the Nissan Z Proto.
This can be seen in the instrumentation of the Nissan Z Proto. All vital information is found in the 12.3-inch digital display, which includes a redline shift point at the 12 o’clock position.
The new, deep dish steering wheel offers the driver quick access controls without losing its retro aesthetic.
Yellow accents are found throughout the cabin, including on the stitching on the instrument panel. The seats feature special yellow accenting and a layered gradation stripe in their centre to create depth.
SPORTS CAR JOY
Under the elongated hood of the Nissan Z Proto sits an enhanced twin-turbocharged V6 mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. No further details have been provided on the power output of the drivetrain.
However, Nissan did reveal that it is synchronising the power with the grace and control that has defined the Z for the past 50 years.
Looking for something more modern? Read about Nissan’s latest all-electric SUV, the Nissan Ariya
