When released, Datsun’s early Z-Car range created a sensation, representing an affordable sports car that provided a rewarding motoring experience. The range grew bigger and heavier with each successive model until the 280ZX focused more on comfort than performance. The company injected excitement into the range by introducing the 300ZX Turbo, and this 1986 model is a gem. Faulting its presentation and mechanical health is virtually impossible, and its odometer reading of 71,000 original miles means it should offer its new owner years of reliable motoring. The 300ZX is listed here on Craigslist in Sanford, Florida. The seller set their price at $19,200 OBO, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Tony P for spotting this stunning survivor.

Nissan introduced the 300ZX to the North American market in October 1983 as a successor to its 280ZX. It was an evolution of its predecessor but with considerable attention paid to styling to improve the appearance and aerodynamic efficiency. The 300ZX underwent a mild cosmetic upgrade for the 1986 model year, which is when our feature car rolled off the line. Its original owner ordered it in Dark Red, a color it retains with no evidence of repairs or restoration. The lack of stone chips on the front bumper suggests it may have received a touch-up, which is unsurprising since that area is prone to damage. The paint holds a beautiful shine, while the panels are as straight as an arrow. The seller doesn’t mention rust, and the supplied photos reveal no sign of problems. The plastic and side skirts are in good order, as are the glass panels for the T-Top. The remaining glass is spotless, and there are no stains or marks on the 15″ alloy wheels.

If the Nissan’s exterior makes a positive impression, its interior continues that theme. Trimmed in Burgundy, the new owner receives leather seat upholstery. The same material graces the wheel and shifter knob, and climate-control air conditioning makes life on the road pretty pleasant. The list doesn’t end there, with the 300ZX also featuring power windows, power locks, a power driver’s seat, heated power mirrors, a tilt wheel, cruise control, and a premium AM/FM radio/cassette player. That last item is particularly noteworthy because it features the company’s “Body Sonic” function. This placed speakers within the seats that were controlled by knobs on the console. It allowed occupants to “feel” the bass beat of whatever music was playing. It could be considered the precursor to the subwoofers we take for granted today. Other technological marvels include controls for the audio system and cruise control on the wheel, and the funky digital gauge cluster. The overall condition of the interior is extremely impressive. There is no crumbling plastic, no signs of wear or abuse, and no significant wrinkles on the seat leather. However, the highlight is the shifter because it confirms this is a genuine “driver’s” car.

Z-Cars had always been powered by various versions of the L-Series straight-six powerplant, but Nissan took a fresh approach with the 300ZX. The model designation signifies the engine capacity of 3.0-liters, but the new motor was a V6. The base motor produced a respectable 165hp and 174 ft/lbs of torque, providing reasonable performance. However, not content to rest on its laurels, the company introduced a turbocharged version that lifted those figures to 205hp and 227 ft/lbs. This car’s turbocharged powerplant is backed by a five-speed manual transmission, with power assistance for the steering and four-wheel disc brakes, and adjustable sports suspension an integral part of the package. The ¼-mile ET and top speed graphically demonstrate the impact of forced induction. The entry-level version provided figures of 16.5 seconds and 137mph. The Turbo upped the ante by slashing the ET to 14.9 seconds and raising the top speed to 149mph. This 300ZX is in excellent mechanical health. It rolls on relatively new tires, received a recent service, and has a genuine 71,000 miles on the clock. It runs and drives perfectly, allowing its new owner to fly in and drive it home.

This 1986 Nissan 300ZX Turbo is a stunning survivor and ideal for an enthusiast seeking a Japanese classic that perfectly balances performance and comfort. Its unmolested state will attract purists and those unable to tackle a project build. The price is realistic for a vehicle of this condition, but it appears there is room to move on that figure. Those factors make it worth a closer look. Are you tempted?