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240 Rides Again?

24 August 1998

Nissan 240Z Concept Car Captured Exclusively On

    DETROIT, Aug. 24 -- Call it the rebirth of a legend.  The
240Z is back -- and it's been captured on the Internet on The Car Connection.
Point your browser to  for exclusive photos of the
Z car prototype that will be posted on Monday, August 24th at 9 a.m. EDT.
    The original 240Z, introduced in 1970,  was a true sensation, opening the
door for a wide range of small, yet swift import sports coupes, including
Toyota's Celica (later the Supra), the Mazda RX-7 and Isuzu's Impulse.  But
none had the panache and performance of the Z.  Unfortunately, over the years,
the car got longer, less distinctive -- and exceedingly expensive.  And with
sales dropping down to zero, the Z was pulled from production.
    Ironically, loyal fans have been paying thousands more than the original
cost to get their hands on a restored 240Z.  Someone at Nissan seems to have
noticed, and now the automaker is studying the idea of putting the Z back into
production.  The reaction this concept car gets will help Nissan decide.
    Forget the swoopy, high-tech look of the last 300Z.  There's no mistaking
the hard-edged retro styling of the new 240Z's classy chassis, from the
recessed headlights to its sweeping fastback.  Considering how well other
retro cars, like the New Beetle, Prowler and Viper, are doing, Nissan hopes
this "everything-old-is-new-again" Z-car will kick off its comeback.
    The Car Connection, , is the nation's premier
automotive "e-zine."  Turn to it for the latest news, reviews, and often-
controversial reviews.  You'll find driving tips from racing instructor Bob
Bondurant, helpful maintenance advice from On-Site Mechanic Bob Weber, and
"spy shots" of tomorrow's hottest products Caught in the Web.  The Car
Connection also offers a timely car calendar and the web's most expansive
automotive Yellow Pages.  And starting at 9 a.m. EDT on Monday, August 24th,
you'll find exclusive photographs of the new Nissan 240Z concept car.
Watch this space.  Next time, we may have spy shots of the production version!