Japan vs Japan — 1969 vs 2023
| Fairlady Z 240Z (S30) | Z Performance (RZ34) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 151 hp | 400 hp |
| Torque | 146 lb-ft | 350 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,393 cc | 2,997 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.0 sec | 4.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.9 sec | 12.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,352 lbs | 3,391 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,305 mm | 2,550 mm |
| Length | 4,115 mm | 4,380 mm |
| Units Produced | 546,072 | — |
| Original MSRP | $3,526 | $52,990 |
| Value (Excellent) | $100,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 4/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1969 Nissan Fairlady Z 240Z (S30) brings lighter weight, stronger collectibility, better value to the table, and the 2023 Nissan Z Performance (RZ34) answers with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Nissan has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1969 Nissan Fairlady Z 240Z (S30) with the 2023 Nissan Z Performance (RZ34) highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2023 Nissan Z Performance (RZ34) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 400 hp compared to 151 hp, a 249-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Nissan Fairlady Z uses a Inline-6 SOHC (L24) displacing 2,393 cc, while the Nissan Z relies on a V6 DOHC 24V Twin-Turbocharged with 2,997 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2023 Nissan Z Performance (RZ34) edges ahead at 4.0 seconds versus 8.0 seconds. The Nissan Fairlady Z carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1039 lbs lighter. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1969 Nissan Fairlady Z 240Z (S30) rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.