Japan vs Japan — 1990 vs 1989
| 300ZX Twin Turbo (Z32) | 300ZX Twin Turbo (Z32) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 283 lb-ft | 283 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,960 cc | 2,960 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.0 sec | 5.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.4 sec | 13.4 sec |
| Wheelbase | 2,450 mm | 2,450 mm |
| Length | 4,520 mm | 4,525 mm |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $80,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 5/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1990 Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo (Z32) brings its unique character to the table, and the 1989 Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo (Z32) answers with quicker acceleration. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Nissan 300ZX. The 1990 and 1989 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1990 Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo (Z32) producing 300 hp and the 1989 Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo (Z32) delivering 300 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Nissan 300ZX uses a V6 Twin-Turbo DOHC 24V displacing 2,960 cc, while the Nissan 300ZX relies on a V6 DOHC 24V Twin-Turbo with 2,960 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1989 Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo (Z32) edges ahead at 5.0 seconds versus 5.0 seconds. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.