1990-1996 Nissan 300ZX: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1990-1996 Nissan 300ZX and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Steering/handling
- Acceleration
Cons
- Cargo room
- Fuel economy
- Ride
- Noise
- Visibility
Vehicle Highlights
Nissan redesigned its rear-drive sports car for introduction in spring 1989, adding a turbocharged model that fall. Two curvaceous body styles were offered: a 2-passenger coupe, and a 2+2 coupe with a small back seat. A 222-horsepower, 3.0-liter V-6 was standard in all models except the 300ZX Turbo, which came only in 2-seater form. Equipped with twin turbochargers and twin intercoolers (one set for each cylinder bank), the four-cam, 24-valve 3.0-liter engine developed 300 horsepower with 5-speed manual shift, or 280 horsepower when fitted with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Automatic also was available with the less-powerful engine. Turbos had intercooler inlets in the front air dam, a rear spoiler, Z-rated tires, and super HICAS (High Capacity Actively Controlled Steering) 4-wheel steering. That meant the rear wheels first turned slightly in the opposite direction from the front wheels, then in the same direction, to improve stability in fast lane-changes. Antilock braking was standard. Door-mounted front seatbelts could be left buckled, to deploy automatically. A T-top roof was standard on the Turbo model. Other 2-passenger coupes could have a fixed roof or the removable roof panels.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Nissan 300ZX Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 8 | |
| Fuel Economy | 3 | |
| Ride Quality | 2 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 8 | |
| Quietness | 2 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 0 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 38 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1990-1996 Nissan 300ZX. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1990-1996 Nissan 300ZX.
Year to Year Changes
1991 Nissan 300ZX:
A driver's airbag became optional this year, and a new base model joined the lineup. Additional standard equipment included heated mirrors, an illuminated entry system, a cargo cover, and automatic temperature control. All except the base model had a Nissan/Bose audio system. Base models seated two, had no T-bar roof, and came only with 5-speed manual shift.
1992 Nissan 300ZX:
Optional in 1991 models, the driver's airbag became standard this year. Otherwise, the 300ZX was little changed.
1993 Nissan 300ZX:
For the first time, the Z-car lineup included a factory-built convertible, introduced as an early 1993 model. Fitted with leather upholstery, the convertible had a manually folding top and a rear "hoop" over the interior, to increase structural rigidity and provide upper anchor points for the manual lap/shoulder belts. No other significant changes were evident.
1994 Nissan 300ZX:
A passenger-side airbag joined the driver's airbag for 1994. New standard features included remote keyless entry for all models, and a power passenger seat for the convertible.
1995 Nissan 300ZX:
No change was evident in the sixth season of this generation of Nissan's Z-car.
1996 Nissan 300ZX:
For its final season in Nissan's lineup, no significant change was announced. Nissan chose to focus its attention on higher-volume models, letting the 300ZX disappear. As before, the selection consisted of base and hatchback coupes (with or without T-bar roof), a Turbo coupe, a 2+2 coupe, and a convertible with leather upholstery. Since its demise, several versions of a potential Z-car for the future have been seen at auto shows.
Our road test for the 1990-1996 Nissan 300ZX includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1990-1996 Nissan 300ZX and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1990-1996 Nissan 300ZX is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
More sports car than luxury model, the 300ZX does not cheat occupants of comforts or conveniences. In any form, though, the 300ZX emphasizes dynamic stability over comfort and practicality. Strong low-end acceleration and prompt, spirited passing response characterize the base model, which can accelerate to 60 mph in 8 seconds or less. With the twin-turbo engine, 0-60 time drops to about 6.2 seconds. An automatic transmission slows down the base car appreciably. Movement off the line is blunted, and only a serious stab at the throttle gets it to downshift for passing. With either transmission, the Turbo simply catapults away from stoplights and springs ahead from virtually any speed. Gas mileage is passable. We averaged 18.7 mpg with an automatic transmission, and a 5-speed Turbo managed 17.1 mpg. Both require premium fuel. A low, wide stance yields balanced, confidence-inspiring grip and handling. All models zip around tight corners with admirable agility, virtually no body lean, and commendable grasp--as long as the pavement is dry, that is. Traction diminishes greatly on wet roads. Rain and snow demand caution because it's easy to break the rear end loose, but antilock-equipped braking ranks as commendable. Sports-car handling produces a penalty in ride comfort. An ally in cornering maneuvers, the stiff suspension fails to absorb most bumps, but simply hammers over them. Rough roads induce little "cowl shake" in the convertible. Strong performance yields a penalty in fuel economy. Expect less than 20 mpg, except in straight highway cruising. Getting in or out of the low-slung cockpit demands some dexterity, and you'll need plenty of room to fully open the wide, heavy doors. Once behind the wheel in the ergonomically correct interior, the driver will appreciate clearly marked gauges and handy controls. Seats are comfortable and supportive, with adequate room for two people to stretch out. On the downside, a low seating position and wide pillars on coupes make it difficult to see directly behind and over the shoulder. The 2+2's back seat is strictly for luggage, and the coupe's cargo bay is shallow and poorly shaped.
Value for the Money
For performance and image above all else, the well-assembled 300ZX is a fine choice--but at a high cost. Then again, its principal rivals--the Mazda RX-7, Mitsubishi 3000GT, and Toyota Supra--are not exactly cheap, either.
For performance and image above all else, the well-assembled 300ZX is a fine choice--but at a high cost. Then again, its principal rivals--the Mazda RX-7, Mitsubishi 3000GT, and Toyota Supra--are not exactly cheap, either.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Nissan 300ZX Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 8 | |
| Fuel Economy | 3 | |
| Ride Quality | 2 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 8 | |
| Quietness | 2 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 0 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 38 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Nissan 300ZX includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Nissan 300ZX .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Clutch:
On turbocharged models ,the clutch may slip because the clutch-pedal return spring is too weak. (1990-91)
Fuel pump:
Adding fuel-injector cleaner to the gas tank can cause corrosion on the fuel injector coils, which will eventually damage them. (1990-94)
Poor drivability:
A problem with the power transistor causes drivability and idle problems, and there was a voluntary recall to replace it. (1990-93)
Power seat:
The original power-seat switch sticks out and is often kicked and broken, but there is a revised switch with a shorter lever and stronger housing available. (1990)
Water leak:
Leaves and other debris can collect in the evaporator housing, clogging the drain and causing water to leak into the passenger footwell. A revised cowl screen is required. (1990)
Windows:
The power windows may shudder during operation requiring revised window regulators (1990-91), or the windows may not operate due to dust building up in the main power window switch. (1990-92)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $730 |
| Alternator | $535 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,620 |
| Brakes | $350 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $450 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,400 |
| Exhaust System | $370 |
| Radiator | $400 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,300 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $340 |
Our price chart for this generation Nissan 300ZX details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1996 | |||
| 300ZX Turbo, conv. | $7,900-9,000 | $7,100-8,100 | $4,000-4,600 |
| 300ZX coupe | $5,800-6,800 | $5,000-5,900 | $2,400-2,900 |
| 1995 | |||
| 300ZX Turbo, conv. | $6,800-7,800 | $6,100-6,900 | $3,200-3,700 |
| 300ZX coupe | $4,800-5,800 | $4,000-4,900 | $1,800-2,200 |
| 1994 | |||
| 300ZX Turbo, conv. | $5,800-6,800 | $5,000-5,900 | $2,400-2,900 |
| 300ZX coupe | $4,000-5,000 | $3,300-4,100 | $1,300-1,600 |
| 1993 | |||
| 300ZX Turbo, conv. | $5,000-6,000 | $4,300-5,100 | $2,000-2,400 |
| 300ZX coupe | $3,500-4,400 | $2,800-3,500 | $900-1,200 |
| 1992 | |||
| 300ZX | $3,100-4,000 | $2,400-3,100 | $700-1,000 |
| 300ZX Turbo | $4,300-5,100 | $3,600-4,200 | $1,500-1,700 |
| 1991 | |||
| 300ZX | $2,700-3,500 | $2,000-2,600 | $600-800 |
| 300ZX Turbo | $3,800-4,600 | $3,100-3,800 | $1,200-1,400 |
| 1990 | |||
| 300ZX | $2,400-3,800 | $1,700-2,700 | $500-800 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Nissan 300ZX include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door convertible | 2-door hatchback |
| Wheelbase, in. | 96.5 | 96.5 |
| Overall Length, in. | 169.5 | 169.5 |
| Overall Width, in. | 70.5 | 70.5 |
| Overall Height, in. | 49.5 | 48.3 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3446 | 3299 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 5.8 | 23.7 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.2 | 18.7 |
| Seating Capacity | 2 | 2 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 37.1 | 36.8 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 43.0 | 43.0 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | -- | -- |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | -- | -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Regular 300ZX models had a 222-horsepower, dual-overhead-cam 3.0-liter V6 engine. A twin-turbocharged, twin-intercooled version of the 3.0-liter V6 went into the Turbo, making 300 horsepower with manual shift or 280 with automatic. Either engine could drive a 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 4-speed automatic unit.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc V6 | 3.0 / 181 | 222 | 198 | 5-speed manual: 18/24 4-speed automatic: 18/23 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| Turbocharged dohc V6 | 3.0 / 181 | 280-300 | 283 | 5-speed manual: 18/24 4-speed automatic: 18/23 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Japan
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Nissan 300ZX include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1993 300ZX |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 3 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | -- |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
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