I’ve discussed in previous articles how cars from some eras have been treated as disposable items. Many cars from the 1980s suffered that fate, making their final journey to the scrapyard years ago. However, occasionally one surfaces that seems to break that rule, and this 1987 Nissan 300ZX is a perfect example. It is an unmolested survivor that is in exceptional condition. It features a T-Top to maximize motoring pleasure on sunny days, and the first owner ordered it with a stick shift that will provide a rewarding driving experience. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Barney for spotting the Nissan listed here on Craigslist in Granbury, Texas. You could become this classic’s new owner once you have handed the seller $25,000.

Nissan introduced the 300ZX in 1983 as its successor to the 280ZX. Its latest offering continued the styling trend of a long hood and a rear hatch, although the appearance was much sharper and more modern. The seller describes this 1987 model as a survivor, and its condition is mighty impressive. The Burgundy paint shines like a mirror, and the panels are as straight as an arrow. Rust could sometimes be a problem, but life in a dry climate has left this classic rock-solid. Adding to the inherent appeal is the glass T-Top, and I would almost bet that it has seen plenty of use due to the car’s location. There is nothing cosmetically deserving criticism, and the damage-prone factory alloy wheels look perfect. So far, this Nissan looks like a winner.

Japanese manufacturers like Nissan/Datsun founded their reputation on building affordable and reliable smaller cars with high build quality. It introduced the first of its Z-car range in 1969, demonstrating that it could produce sporting models that provided a rewarding driving experience. However, the range evolved over the following years as the company placed more focus on luxury. This 300ZX reflects that philosophy, featuring air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, power seat adjustment, a tilt wheel, and a premium AM/FM radio/cassette player. Upholstery in the 240Z was strictly a vinyl affair, but this car treats occupants to beautiful Deep Red cloth. Trim from this era was prone to deterioration, especially if exposed to harsh UV rays. That isn’t the case here because, while describing it as showroom-fresh is probably a stretch, the condition is exceptional for its age. There is no visible wear, with the outer seat edges particularly worthy of mention. The carpet looks excellent, with the same true of the dash and pad. The rear cargo area isn’t scuffed or damaged, and retains the original bags for the glass T-Top panels.

From its introduction, Nissan/Datsun’s Z-car range had been powered by various versions of the company’s L-series OHC straight six engine. However, the 300ZX brought a more modern powerplant to the table in the form of a 3.0-liter V6. Buyers could choose from a normally aspirated or turbocharged version, with this car featuring the former. It should send 160hp and 172 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via the desirable five-speed manual transmission. With Nissan placing more emphasis on luxury motoring, it is unsurprising to find this classic equipped with power assistance for the steering and brakes. The seller’s listing details suggest an odometer reading of 33,000 genuine miles, although they don’t specifically mention this or the presence of verifying evidence. What they do state is that this 300ZX is in excellent mechanical health, running and driving perfectly.

Genuine survivors from the 1980s are becoming more difficult to find. Owners often chose to forsake cars from that decade as the technological gains that became an integral part of the 1990s unlocked significant improvements in performance and refinement. This 1987 Nissan 300ZX has avoided the scrapyard, and its overall condition suggests that it has led a sheltered existence as someone’s pride and joy. You will struggle to find another example that is as original and immaculate as this, and that’s why I believe that the seller will have no trouble finding a buyer willing to hand over the cash to take it home.