Nissan Z Proto Unveiled As Z-car Precursor [w/video]

The list of rear-wheel-drive sportscars grows ever shorter with each passing year. But one manufacturer isn’t keen to hand in its membership card to this exclusive club just yet. The all-new Nissan Z Proto was unveiled in the early part of the morning (SA time). As the “proto” bit suggests, this isn’t quite a production model, but looking at the less-than-showy nature of the exterior and interior, this car cannot be far from production reality.

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Retro-futuristic

Nissan’s current RWD sportscar, the 370Z has been on sale for well over 12 years. The company must’ve been in discussions to decide on the future of its entry-level sportster and this new ‘concept’ gives us the clearest indication that the Z-car heritage will continue.

Nissan Z car family

The Nissan Z Proto combines: a retro theme with one that also projected futurism, said Alfonso Albaisa, head of design at Nissan. Teardrop-shaped LED headlights are supposed to be a reminder of the original Z while the rectangular grille dimensions are similar to the current model as is the roofline, The rear takes inspiration from the 300ZX taillights(and also reminds us of the rear-end on this Aston Martin). 19-inch alloy wheels and dual exhausts complete the Z Proto’s road presence.

Cabin treatment

Nissan says the Z Proto’s cabin has been designed to fit driver and passenger like a glove. The company states that its design team sought advice from motorsport legends to give the Z Proto an ideal sportscar cabin. A new, deep dish steering wheel carries over a vintage feel. Vital driving information is conveyed by a 12,3-inch digital instrument display. Yellow accents are found throughout the cabin, including stitching on the instrument panel.

Twin-turbocharged manual

The next-gen Z will be powered by a twin-turbocharged V6 engine. However, none of the press material divulged the engine size or power output. Nissan would have to target around 300 kW to remain competitive against the likes of the Toyota Supra and BMW M2. Big news for many enthusiasts is that the motor will be mated to a six-speed manual transmission. In true sportscar fashion drive is sent solely to the rear axle.

Check out the 50^th anniversary celebration of the Nissan GT-R at this link.

In his own words

Nissan CEO Makoto Uchida: “With the Z, we’re bringing drivers the excitement of a pure sportscar. For more than 50 years we have been creating the legend of Z together. I’m glad you’re with us for the next exciting chapter. The new Z is on its way.”