Japan vs Japan — 1969 vs 1970
| Fairlady Z 240Z (S30) | Fairlady Z 432 (S20) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 151 hp | 160 hp |
| Torque | 146 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 2,393 cc | — |
| 0-60 mph | 8.0 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 125 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.9 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,352 lbs | 2,271 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,305 mm | 2,305 mm |
| Length | 4,115 mm | 4,115 mm |
| Units Produced | 546,072 | 420 |
| Original MSRP | $3,526 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $100,000 | — |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 10/10 |
The 1970 Nissan Fairlady Z 432 (S20) emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The 1969 Nissan Fairlady Z 240Z (S30) counters with its unique character, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The Nissan Fairlady Z lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1969 Nissan Fairlady Z 240Z (S30) with the 1970 Nissan Fairlady Z 432 (S20) reveals how Nissan refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1969 Nissan Fairlady Z 240Z (S30) producing 151 hp and the 1970 Nissan Fairlady Z 432 (S20) delivering 160 hp. The engine configurations differ significantly — a Inline-6 SOHC (L24) in the Nissan Fairlady Z versus a Inline-6 in the Nissan Fairlady Z 432 (S20). The 1970 Nissan Fairlady Z 432 (S20) claims a higher top speed at 125 mph compared to 125 mph. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 420 units built, the 1970 Nissan Fairlady Z 432 (S20) is considerably scarcer than the Nissan Fairlady Z's 546,072 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1970 Nissan Fairlady Z 432 (S20) rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.