Nissan put the refreshed Nissan Fairlady Z and Fairlady Z NISMO on sale in Japan. The update targets three weak points: divisive front styling, chassis polish, and NISMO's automatic-only lineup. The rear-drive, twin-turbo formula stays.
For U.S. readers, Fairlady Z means Nissan Z. Japan's car closely tracks the 2027 Z, though local grades, output ratings, equipment, and prices differ.
Cleaner Aero Meets Z Heritage
Nissan replaced the rectangular grille with a narrower, two-level opening and returned the Z badge to the nose. The longer bumper increases overall length to 173.6 inches (4,410 mm), while repositioned ducts and sonar sensors reduce front lift and drag. Unryu Green with a Super Black roof references the S30's Grand Prix Green, and forged wheels borrow their geometric aero-disc theme from the Z31.
In addition, Nissan fitted larger-diameter monotube dampers with 26.6 percent more pressure-receiving area. That added hydraulic area helps the dampers react precisely to rapid road inputs, controlling body motion without firmer spring rates alone.
| Japan-market specification | Fairlady Z | Fairlady Z NISMO |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 | NISMO-tuned 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 |
| Output | 400 hp at 6,400 rpm | 414 hp at 6,400 rpm |
| Torque | 350 lb-ft at 1,600-5,600 rpm | 384 lb-ft at 2,000-5,200 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or 9-speed automatic | 6-speed manual or 9-speed automatic |
| Length x width x height | 173.6 x 72.6 x 51.8 inches | 173.6 x 73.6 x 51.8 inches |
| Wheelbase | 100.4 inches | 100.4 inches |
| Curb weight | 3,461-3,571 pounds | 3,616 pounds MT; 3,682 pounds AT |
| Japan WLTC economy, converted | 22.4-24.0 mpg | 21.2-21.6 mpg |
The Manual Changes NISMO's Value
Nissan now pairs the NISMO-tuned V6 with either a dedicated short-throw six-speed manual or the existing nine-speed automatic. The manual uses a higher-capacity clutch, stronger transmission mount, and revised shift-lever ratio. Specifically, Nissan recalibrated throttle and ignition control for sharper pedal response and steadier torque delivery.
Standard and Sport settings alter response and acceleration sound, while a NISMO-exclusive Traction setting permits more slip before electronic intervention. By comparison, the automatic suits drivers chasing repeatable acceleration rather than clutch control.
NISMO also uses 15.0 x 1.3-inch GT-R-derived two-piece front rotors with iron friction rings and aluminum hats. The assembly removes 19 pounds of front unsprung mass and improves cooling; Nissan retuned the front suspension around that reduction and cut steering-rack friction by 20 percent.
Japan Pricing
Looking at the data, the regular Z remains attainable, but NISMO asks for serious money.
| Japan grade | Transmission | Approximate USD price |
|---|---|---|
| Fairlady Z | 6MT or 9AT | $37,100 |
| Version T | 9AT | $40,100 |
| Version S | 6MT | $42,600 |
| Version ST | 6MT or 9AT | $45,200 |
| Fairlady Z NISMO | 6MT or 9AT | $63,000 |
| Mandatory NISMO paint | All NISMO cars | From $320 |
Consequently, NISMO costs roughly $17,800 more than Version ST. Buyers pay for 14 extra hp, 34 additional lb-ft, lighter brakes, sharper chassis tuning, NISMO seats, and the dedicated manual calibration.
Cabin and Track Durability Get Useful Updates
A 12.3-inch digital cluster displays every Z generation during startup, while an S30-inspired tan cabin joins the options list. A Qi2 charging pad adds magnetic phone retention and an integrated cooling fan. A new fuel-tank chamber keeps gasoline around the pump during sustained high-g cornering, and revised automatic emergency braking detects cyclists.
Why This Matters to You
From an expert perspective, Nissan spent its engineering budget where drivers feel it: shift quality, brake consistency, steering response, ride control, and fuel delivery. The refresh adds little power, yet it should deliver repeatable laps and calmer road behavior.
Pro-Tips: Which Fairlady Z Should You Buy?
- Choose the base car or Version T for road use and the lowest entry price.
- Pick Version ST for the strongest mix of equipment, 400 hp, and value.
- Buy the Fairlady Z NISMO six-speed manual if track stamina and direct control justify the $17,800 jump.
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