One to Buy: 80,000km from new 1971 Nissan Fairlady Z432 (PS30)
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In December 1969, Nissan presented the third iteration of their Japanese Domestic Market Fairlady Z. Although it looked broadly similar to the existing S30S (Fairlady Z) and the slightly better equipped S30 (Fairlady Z-L), the new PS30 Fairlady Z432 was created to to demonstrate the Z-car’s ability on-track.
Based on the pared down S30S, the Z432 most notably came with an engine from the C10 Skyline GT-R whereas other Fairladys used a two-valve, twin carb, single overhead camshaft engine.
By contrast, the Z432’s power unit was a four-valve, triple carb, dual overhead camshaft unit (hence the 432 moniker). Other upgrades were similarly driver-focused. They included a close-ratio gearbox, limited-slip differential and lightweight magnesium wheels.
At nearly double the price of an entry level Fairlady Z, the Z432 was aimed at those customers who wanted the ultimate Japanese GT car of the day. Dry weight was 1040kg and the Z432 had a peak output of 160bhp at 7000rpm (up from 130bhp at 6000rpm for the standard variant).
Just 420 examples of the Z432 were built between 1969 and ‘73, one of which is currently on offer with Bingo Sports in Tokyo, Japan.
Chassis PS30-00232 is a 1971 example (one of 98) and is presented in the trademark Z432 colour scheme of Orange over Black. It has covered a mere 79,550km from new and represents a superb example of easily the most desirable road-going Z-car.
