The Nissan Fairlady Z 432 is a rare and iconic variant of the Nissan S30 series, also known as the Datsun 240Z outside of Japan. This specific model, the Fairlady Z 432, was introduced in 1969 and became one of the most sought-after versions of the Fairlady Z line due to its unique combination of performance and engineering.
Overview
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Model: Nissan Fairlady Z 432 (S30)
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Years of Production: 1969–1973
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Engine: 2.0-liter DOHC inline-6 (S20 engine)
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Power: 160 hp
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Transmission: 5-speed manual
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Drive: Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
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Body Style: 2-door fastback coupe
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Production Numbers: Very limited, with approximately 420 units produced.
What Makes the Fairlady Z 432 Special?
The Fairlady Z 432 stands out because it combines the classic Z-car design with a performance engine derived from the Nissan Skyline GT-R (Hakosuka), making it a highly prized collector's car. The model name "432" refers to:
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4 valves per cylinder.
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3 carburetors.
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2 camshafts.
This naming convention highlighted the advanced technology packed into this car for its time.
Key Features and Specifications
1. Engine
The S20 engine that powered the Fairlady Z 432 is one of the most notable features of this model. It was the same engine found in the legendary Nissan Skyline GT-R (also known as the Hakosuka GT-R):
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Engine Type: 2.0-liter DOHC inline-6, naturally aspirated.
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Horsepower: 160 hp at 7,000 rpm.
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Torque: 130 lb-ft at 5,600 rpm.
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Carburetion: It used three Mikuni-Solex carburetors for better fuel delivery and performance.
- This engine was cutting-edge for its time, offering a higher rev limit and improved performance compared to the standard engines in other Fairlady Z models.
2. Transmission and Drivetrain
The Fairlady Z 432 was equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, which was relatively advanced for its era. It also featured rear-wheel drive (RWD), delivering a pure and engaging driving experience that Z cars have become famous for.
3. Performance
The Z 432 was known for its performance, especially considering the era. The S20 engine provided a lot of power for a small, lightweight sports car. With a weight of around 1,040 kg (2,293 lbs), the Fairlady Z 432 could achieve strong acceleration and impressive handling for the time.
4. Chassis and Suspension
The car shared much of its basic design with the standard Fairlady Z (240Z), but the Z 432 had upgraded features to handle the extra power:
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Independent suspension all around.
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Strut suspension in the front and semi-trailing arms in the rear.
- The handling dynamics were praised for their balance, allowing drivers to enjoy both straight-line speed and agile cornering.
5. Exterior Design
The Fairlady Z 432 retained the classic long hood, short deck fastback design that made the Z-car line iconic:
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Styling: Like other Fairlady Z models, it featured a sleek and aerodynamic design with a long nose and short rear overhang.
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Distinctive Badge: The Z 432 can be identified by the distinctive "432" badging on the rear and other unique trim pieces.
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Wheels and Tires: It was fitted with lightweight alloy wheels, further differentiating it from other models in the Fairlady Z lineup.
6. Interior
The interior of the Fairlady Z 432 was relatively simple but driver-focused:
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Instrumentation: It featured a comprehensive set of analog gauges, including a tachometer, speedometer, and additional gauges for engine health (oil pressure, water temperature, etc.).
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Seats: The seats were sporty and designed to provide support during spirited driving.
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Minimalistic Design: The overall design was more focused on function over luxury, in keeping with the car’s performance-oriented nature.
Limited Production and Collectability
One of the reasons the Fairlady Z 432 is so highly regarded today is its rarity. With around 420 units produced, it was never intended to be a mass-market car, unlike other Z models like the Datsun 240Z. Its limited production, combined with its use of the GT-R’s S20 engine, makes it one of the most valuable and collectible Z cars.
