Datsun S30 Concept

The 2026 Sema Show takes place in Las Vegas from 3 November. As has become tradition, automakers build special cars for the event. This year Nissan has built two specials and the Datsun S30 Concept could just be our favourite.

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Getting slidey

The Datsun S30 Concept was built in conjunction with pro drifter, Chris Forsberg. The Formula Drift regular has long been campaigning Nissan’s in the leading series. He has raced S13s, S15s and 370Zs to the current Nissan Z car. So it was a natural fit for the Japanese automaker to partner with him.

Old and new

The starting point for this exercise was the classic 280Z. The car, finished in metallic blue, retains the lines of the original. But there are a few subtle changes such as carbon-fibre front fenders and bumpers. It also has a cool-looking set of Nismo LM-RS6 alloys that measure 17 x 9J. The alloys cover Wilwood six-piston front calipers with 300 mm discs, and four-piston rear calipers with 280 mm discs. The wheels are suspended by aftermarket coilovers at all four corners, a new steering rack, billet tie rods, upgraded front and rear control arms, and new front and rear anti-roll bars.

Click here to check out a neat, locally owned classic Datsun 280ZX.

Modern power

The biggest change takes place under the long bonnet of the coupe. In place of the original inline-six there is now the same twin-turbocharged V6 nicked from the current Z car. The 3,0-litre unit has been upgraded with Garrett turbochargers, cold air intakes, a new intercooler, and a six-speed manual transmission. To put down the power (no figure quoted) Nissan has also dropped in a twin-disc clutch and a Nismo limited-slip differential between the rear wheels.

Track ready

The other ca that will be on display is Project NAT2. This racetrack machine was developed in-house by the Nissan Acceleration Team (NAT), an all-volunteer group of employees who pursue motorsports in their free time, the purpose-built race car takes Z from the street to SCCA competition. Project NAT2 Z was built to SCCA Touring 2 specifications with upgrades to its engine, suspension and braking systems using a mix of Nismo and aftermarket components. Inside, the cabin has been stripped and fitted with a roll cage and other competition safety equipment.