History

In 1989 Nissan replaced the z32 chassis with the Z32. Production of the naturally aspirated versions began in the Spring, followed by the twin-turbo in the Fall. The Z32 was also titled 300ZX because engine displacement remained unchanged. However, since the engine had dual overhead cams, the engine code was revised to VG30DE. The twin-turbo model had the VG30DETT engine.

Style and evolution
The Z32 chassis would likewise undergo several changes throughout its production run between 1989 and 2000. Among the milestone safety additions are the inclusion of standard driver and passenger-side airbags and true pillar-mount seat belts. The Z32's extended model year sales in 1990 reached 39,290 units.

1990
• Non turbo models begin production in Spring '1989 and the Twin Turbo models begin in the Fall.
• Extended model year sales: 39,290

1991
• Manual climate controls discontinued (except in convertible).
• New electronic climate controls allowing control over air flow direction, but no more ambient temp gauge.
• Nissan logo put on the front fascia (nose panel).
• Driver's airbag now optional.
• Air conditioner evaporator valve changed from aluminum to steel for better sound insulation.
• North American brake rotors changed to Non Turbo units. Previous Non Turbo rotors were 4 mm thinner.
• CD player option added for both the Twin Turbo and Non turbo; it was previously only available on the Non turbo.
• Bose stereo head unit changed.
• Logo on floor mats changed from "300ZX" to "Z".
• Hardtop coupe available at mid-year (Non turbo only).
• Brake master cylinder changed to new unit in February 1991.
• Keyhole on driver's door and interior light illuminated when driver's door handle was pulled.
• Sales: 17,652 units.

1992
• Driver's airbag made standard.
• Brake caliper material changed from aluminum to iron, to help warpage/shimmy problems.
• Dashboard and door complimentary material changed from fabric to suede.
• Separate mirror heater switch eliminated (combined with rear defroster switch)
• Mirror heaters made standard.
• Power adjustable driver's seat standard on Twin Turbo.
• Sales: 6,708 units.

1993
• Turbo oil line insulation changed for better heat dissipation.
• Convertible option added.
• Upgraded Bose stereo made standard.
• AIV/reed valves removed.
• Sales: 11,599 units.

1994
• Rear spoiler design changed to a taller, pedestal-type.
• Seat belts redesigned; they were moved from door mounts to true pillar mounts.
• Super HICAS system changed to an electrically-actuated unit (previously oil pressure actuated).
• Passenger's side airbag introduced and made standard.
• Keyless entry added.
• Titanium keys discontinued in November 1994.
• 'Reset' button removed from clock.
• Off-white 'Pearl' colour is dropped. Future 'Pearls' are more of a semi-metallic white.
• Sales: 5,320 units.

1995
• Front fascia became body coloured instead of gray strip.
• Sales: 3,135 units.

1996
• Variable cam timing (NVTC) dropped. Factory HP rating remains at 300 hp (220 kW) as seen on original 1996 model year window stickers and third-party dyno testing shows 300 hp (220 kW).
• OBD II electronics introduced.
• Driver's seat back rest no longer included adjustable side bolsters.
• Sales: 2929 Units total, 300 of which are the "Commemorative Edition."
• Production of USDM spec 300zx ends.

1997
• In January 1997, the R version was introduced and a new body color Purple was added.

1998
• In October 1998, the front bumper, and rear spoiler are changed.

1999
• Nothing Changes

2000
• In September 2000, Production Ends.