Z32 Soft Top Survivor: 1993 Nissan 300ZX Convertible – SOLD!

Update: This one got away, but if you have your heart set on something similar, email us the details of what you’re looking for or call Rudy directly at (908)295-7330

When considering which sports car to buy, it’s important to remember that the absence of a fixed roof does not mean the car underneath is no longer sporting. In fact, convertible versions of desirable models are often a good bit cheaper than their hardtop siblings, while offering the bonus of being a ton of fun when the weather turns pleasant. This 1993 Nissan 300ZX convertible listed on Craigslist in Forest Hill, Maryland with 89,000 miles and supposedly owned by a longtime Nissan Z-car enthusiast, who claims he is “motivated” to sell.   Checking the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool tells us that this seller has priced his example slightly above the “Good” condition rating of $6,500 with an asking price of $7,000.

The Z32 chassis cars are part of that emerging class of collector vehicles that previously sat under the radar, with the exception of incredibly well-preserved turbocharged models that always commanded a premium. The Z32 featured a bevy of technological innovation, including an exterior designed with the help of CAD software, an industry first at the time, along with Nissan’s own version of four-wheel steering called “Super HICAS.” Convertible models like this one made do with the naturally-aspirated six-cylinder, which pumped out a respectable 222 horsepower. With an integrated roll bar and the sharp exterior styling preserved, a 300ZX with its roof off is a stand out in the early 90s convertible marketplace, and a rare find today. Buying one that hasn’t been modified is a must, as unloved Z32s have often tumbled down the slippery slope of cheap modifications and ignored service intervals.

The seller claims he is an “…experienced Z32 tech” who can help with any maintenance related questions or issues down the road, and that he is the third owner of the 300ZX. It sounds like this car was purchased as a weekend-only vehicle, as the listing claims the motivation behind the sale is lack of seat time. The car supposedly comes with service records from the previous two owners, and the big 60,000-mile service was performed in 2009. Some flaws that are noted include a soft top that can leak slightly in the usual places despite having been replaced in 2007 and faded upholstery that was replaced at some point with a material that doesn’t take well to sun exposure. Overall, the divulged issues seem minor, and if the paperwork that accompanies the car paints a picture of fairly consistent repair and servicing, this 300ZX convertible seems worthy of a follow-up – but we’d recommend attempting to negotiate closer to what Hagerty says it’s worth. Good luck with the purchase if you decide this rare drop-top is for you.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“Selling our red z32 300zx convertible. It’s super rare, only about 3k convertibles were made for the US market. Sadly, we hardly ever drive it and it’s time to move on. Asking 7k or best offer. We are motivated to sell. About 89k miles, automatic, v6, non-turbo, starts runs and drives great

Condition:
– For it’s age, it’s in great condition.
– Seats were reskinned in s a suede material which unfortunately wasn’t UV safe and have faded into a brown color. Apparently dye is a good cheap fix for this.
– Paint is pretty good considering everything
– Top is in like new condition, it does leak a bit in the rain around the usually places on this car. Rear window is in great shape. Top was replaced when we got it in 2007ish. Top window is smoked

Modifications from stock
– Aftermarket radio, 2 amps and a 12 inch subwoofer, plenty of volume to still hear on the highway with the top down
– Some minor cosmetic stuff under the hood, powder coated valve covers, intake manifold, etc
– intake
– everything else is pretty much stock

Service history
– have records from the previous 2 owners (i’m the 3rd). We bought it with 75k miles
– i’m also a very experienced z32 tech and have tons of spare parts and specialized tools for this car if you ever get in a bind or need a cheap fix
– fresh battery with tender included.
– full 60k was done around 2009. It really hasn’t been drive a whole lot since then.

For sale separately, but are for this car
– bolt on kyb agx + eibach lowering springs
– a nice set of 18×9,18×10 wheels with like new tires
– 99 jdm tail lights”

Do you have a Nissan 300ZX story you’d like to share?  Comment below and let us know!