Nissan has finally given the Fairlady Z what many enthusiasts have wanted since the current-generation RZ34 arrived: a manual gearbox for the range-topping Z Nismo.
The refreshed Fairlady Z and Z Nismo have now gone on sale in Japan, four years after the latest generation debuted. Until now, Japanese-market Z Nismo buyers were limited to a nine-speed automatic.
The new six-speed manual changes that equation. Nissan has fitted a dedicated short-throw shifter and strengthened clutch, while optimised throttle and ignition control ensure the twin-turbo V6 responds naturally to manual inputs.
The chassis has also received attention, with larger-diameter monotube shocks introduced across the range to improve ride comfort. Nismo models add bright red brake calipers and two-piece drilled rotors, giving the car some serious hardware to match its aggressive appearance.
Visually, the updated Nissan Fairlady Z Nismo gets a redesigned front bumper, and the familiar Z badge returns to the nose. Buyers can choose from 10 exterior colours, including a new Unryu Green and Super Black two-tone combination.
Japanese pricing starts at 5,737,600 yen (about $38,250) for the standard Fairlady Z and rises to 9,752,600 yen (about $65,000) for the Z Nismo.
