Nissan has unveiled the Z Proto, signaling the launch of a new generation of the legendary Z sports car. The prototype car features a new design inside and out, as well as a V-6 twin turbocharged engine with a manual transmission.

Exterior design

Penned and developed by the design team in Japan, the Z Proto boasts a fresh exterior design with a silhouette that reminds one of the original versions. It sports a bright yellow pearlescent paint which is a tribute to a popular paint scheme on both the first generation Z (S30) and the 300ZX (Z32) and a black roof. The shape of the bonnet and the canted, teardrop-shaped LED headlights are both unmistakable reminders of the original Z. The LED headlights have two half-circles that hark back to the Japan market-only 240ZG of the 70s. The rectangular grille's dimensions are similar to the current model with the addition of oval grille fins to offer an updated modern look. The link to the original Z is most striking when viewing the Z Proto in profile. The roofline flows from the nose to the squared-off rear to create a distinctive first-generation Z profile whose rear edge was slightly lower than the front fender height giving the Z its unique posture. The rear takes inspiration from the 300ZX (Z32) taillights. Lightweight carbon fiber treatments on the side skirts, front lower lip and rear valance have also been added for performance. 19-inch alloy wheels and dual exhausts complete the Z Proto.

Interior design

The interior design team sought advice from professional motorsports legends to give the Z Proto an ideal sports car cabin, both for road and track. A 12.3-inch digital meter display beams all relevant information to the driver and is arranged to help the driver grasp it at a glance, such as the redline shift point at the twelve o-clock position. There’s a new, deep dish steering wheel which is complete with its vintage looks. Yellow accents are found throughout the cabin, including stitching on the instrument panel. The seats feature special yellow accenting as well.

The powerplant

Each new generation of the Z had a more powerful engine and this one is no different. Under the elongated hood resides a V-6 twin-turbocharged engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. Considering it is a prototype, Nissan is yet to finalise power and torque figures but we are sure that they will be healthy numbers.