Non-Turbo Survivor: 1995 Nissan 300ZX Convertible – SOLD!

June 12, 2021 Update – we confirmed the seller of this 300ZX “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call Rudy directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

The Z32 Nissan 300ZX was a game-changer for Nissan, giving the company the serious sports car street cred it so yearned for after years of flagship models that never matched the fervor of the original Z-car. This 1995 non-turbo 300ZX is the convertible variant, originally listed in May 2021 on Criagslist in Orlando by what sounds like a long-term owner for $9,700.  Comparing this price against the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms this private seller has seemingly priced this specimen correctly, as a “Concours” example is valued at $24,600, and a “Good” condition model at $9,000.

When Nissan entered the 1980s, it, like many other companies, was feeling the ill effects of the malaise era. Gas-hogging performance cars were decidedly out of style, yet customers still expected there to be a sports model in the lineup. Nissan responded to this pressure by increasingly branding its iconic Z as a grand tourer more concerned with luxury than with blistering performance. The Z31 platform got heavier, and loaded up with comfort and convenience features, while the drivetrain was massaged here and there with no discernable impact on the perception that it was a shadow of what the original 240Z set out to be. The Z32 was a shot at redemption, and Nissan put it all on the line when it introduced a redesigned model with a slippery profile and the added thrust of an optional twin-turbocharged VG30DE engine that made enough power to make a contemporary Ferrari 348 nervous.

This example is closer to the Z31 in spirit than the 300ZX TT, as its equipped with the less powerful drivetrain, an automatic transmission, and of course, the weight and complexity of a convertible roof. But that doesn’t take away from the fact the Z32 is still a striking design, even all of these years later, and still looks quite fresh when parked against modern sports cars. When it comes to buying a Z32, finding one that hasn’t been modified and has resided in the care of a mature owner is key, and this example certainly seems to fit that bill. The seller notes the automatic transmission moves through the gears without issue, and that the manual soft top and electric boot lid both work as intended. Aside from a tear in the leather of the driver’s seat cushion, this 300ZX has clearly been loved, and with just 117,000 miles, it likely has plenty more left to give. Good luck with the purchase if you decide to take this drop-top Z home.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“My Beautiful 1995 Nissan 300ZX N/A convertible 2 seater is up for sale. The car has 117k original miles. Suede door panels and trim panels which give this car a luxurious feel and nice touch. Automatic transmission shifts smoothly through every gear. 3.0 liter V6 engine purrs and sounds great. With 222hp this car gets up and moves. Manual soft convertible top is in good condition. Electric boot opens and closes like it should. The paint is code LP2 (Deep Purple Pearl) shines nicely with a couple of minor imperfections for being a 26 year old classic. Front and rear bumpers have some sun damage but not to bad. There is one spot of chipped paint that’s also not bad. The car has ice cold ac. Working power windows locks and mirrors. Nice Bluetooth radio. Drivers side leather seat has 2 cracks in leather. Both power seats work. Overall a good example for a 300ZX that has many more years left in her. Gets great gas mileage for being a sports car. Always serviced on time. New tires and brakes were done a few months ago. New battery. Car is ready for the road wherever that might take you. Please do not contact me if you don’t know what this iconic 90s Nissan is. Looking for a good home time to let someone else enjoy her as we did. Clean title on hand. Ready to make a deal. Asking $9700 or best cash offer. Please call me directly for any more info or to make an fair weather appointment to see this awesome car. “

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