1990 Nissan 300ZX Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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Nissan redesigned the 300ZX, part of the company's beloved Z sports car line, for the 1990 model year. The new car included a turbocharged trim. Two body styles were available: a two-seater and a "2+2" four-seater. The turbo came with a T-top roof, and the other trims were available with removable roof panels. Starting in 1990, this generation of Zs made Motor Trend's top ten list for the duration of its production.
The 1990 300ZX was available in three trim levels: the 2+2 hatchback, the GS hatchback, and the turbo hatchback. All trim levels came similarly well-equipped, with power windows and doors and air conditioning. The main differences among the trims were body style and engine. The GS and the 2+2 shared a 3.0-liter, 222-horsepower V6, and the turbo had a 3.0-liter, 300-horsepower V6. Fuel economy was about 18/24 mpg.
Nissan's Z-series has a loyal following, and the 1990 300ZX was no exception. Drivers appreciate its classic, sporty looks, smooth handling, powerful engine, and solid reliability. Some drivers complain about the small backseat in the 2+2, but admit that they can't expect much more in a sports car. Other drivers complain that parts can be expensive, but fans contend the expensive parts are key to the car's reliability. The price of a part and how long that part will last do tend to be related.
Published Aug 9, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
User reviews for 1990 Nissan 300ZX
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by Gabriel Q
Mar 26, 2015
I got this as my second car and it was my dad's. He had done the basic intake, exhaust, ECU but also done wheels, springs, shocks, and lower control arms/tension rods. So it was good handling car with decent power. But needed more. In the end, it was just drinking gas too much for me.Mar 26, 2015
by Imani R
Sep 17, 2014
It has great looks and turns heads everywhere I take it. It is fairly comfortable for a sports car and has decent front seat leg room. Maintenance needs to be performed utilizing OEM parts, aftermarket parts do not seem to mesh well.Sep 17, 2014
by Anonymous
Jan 27, 2014
I like it, some days are better than others but on those good days driving it i feel more alive than ever. Good car to own for a little while. Not too bad on gas either, even though it'll only take premium. I've enjoyed having this car a lot.Jan 27, 2014
User rating:
by Gabriel Q
Mar 26, 2015
I got this as my second car and it was my dad's. He had done the basic intake, exhaust, ECU but also done wheels, springs, shocks, and lower control arms/tension rods. So it was good handling car with decent power. But needed more. In the end, it was just drinking gas too much for me.Mar 26, 2015
by Imani R
Sep 17, 2014
It has great looks and turns heads everywhere I take it. It is fairly comfortable for a sports car and has decent front seat leg room. Maintenance needs to be performed utilizing OEM parts, aftermarket parts do not seem to mesh well.Sep 17, 2014
by Anonymous
Jan 27, 2014
I like it, some days are better than others but on those good days driving it i feel more alive than ever. Good car to own for a little while. Not too bad on gas either, even though it'll only take premium. I've enjoyed having this car a lot.Jan 27, 2014
by Dana B
Nov 26, 2013
I do love this car I just need to do some work and fix what others broke, Do a few add ons and really make this car my dream car. I can't wait till my work is all finished and she runs like a dream.Nov 26, 2013
by Oscar A
Jun 21, 2013
A great car that was way ahead of its time! Has a timeless look and is really fun to drive. Every time you accelerate, it will pull your head back. A head turner that gets you many compliments from strangers. Everyone always asks if I would sell.Jun 21, 2013
by Kenny O
Oct 02, 2012
Super fun car. Fast and reliable. Had no trouble out of the car. Mine did not have the twin-turbo, but it was nothing to cruise at about 140 MPH down the interstate. I blew Chevelles off the road in this car. The car was awesome. I recommend this car to anyone looking for a fun weekend car. Find a good mechanic if something goes wrong though. This car is no fun to work on.Oct 02, 2012
by Wes B
Nov 29, 2011
It has a V6 3.0L. For bing a 1990 i tell you the styling of the car fits in with the
newer styling of cars these days. I love this car, its a blast to drive and gets
decent gas mileage.The only down side to this car is if you are not mechanically
inclined and patient on finding car parts it will cost u when stuff goes wrong. This
car has one flaw in it from the factory other then that its a amazing car. Nov 29, 2011
by Michael E
Oct 19, 2011
Twin Turbo Swapped 2+2 Z32. Performing a complete twin turbo swap was no easy task but was definitely worth it. This allows u to keep the best of both models of z. Extra 2 rear seats not available in left hand drive twin turbo models, also no hicas and lower geared rear end kept from the NA. All these features coupled with the power of the Twin Turbo model result in the ideal ZOct 19, 2011
by Marcus K
Nov 29, 2010
For a non turbo the car is fast, the breaks are very good, even in the winter. It has a hint of under steer, but will corner with the best of them. The car is a challenge to work on, but that just makes the driving experience all the more rewarding. Being 21 years old it has it's squeaks and rattles, but with my aftermarket exhaust, you can't hear to much of it. the car is a looker, especially if you have the rear spoiler on it. I get about 20mpg on premium gas, (that's part highway part city). I have had to replace the fan belt on it and some other odds and ends but nothing serious. the car is a blast to drive especially with the roof off.Nov 29, 2010
by Callum C
Nov 19, 2010
GOOD at Everything. Lacking in handling but not to bad. Upgrade brakes and suspension and its all good! Owning cost petrol heavy for turbo with mods and some mods / servicing can be pricey. This car is incredibly fun to drive. Nov 19, 2010
by Aaron M
Aug 09, 2010
Love everything except all the tight fits, the body damage, and how i can not run 10% ethanol....either race fuel or 100% gas (unless it isn't turbo). Even with my dead suspension I can out handle most cars on the road. Gas mileage isn't that bad if you can control the urge to lay into it. Stock the car is well balanced all the way around except a brake upgrade is a must. Syncros in transmission are worn badly (common problem with factory syncros). Once I get the car were I want it, I would not trade it for anything short of another Z32.Aug 09, 2010
by Nara O
Apr 08, 2010
Performance is phenomenal, put your foot down if you dare. Being a 20 year old car it's had many problems, but preventative maintenance is as always the best way to go.
I haven't gone past anyone who could resist staring yet, and has been mistaken for both Lamborghini's and Ferraris.
Incredible fun, and much class. Girlfriend loves it of course.
Only downside is fuel and repairs, both have been a small fortune, and most mechanics refuse to work on it.Apr 08, 2010
by Bryan C
Apr 01, 2010
Performance: Ran 11.9 in the quarter mile...still on stock turbos.
Build Quality: Very reliable for a car of this age.
Appearance: 20 years old and still gets looks from others
Cost of Ownership: MPG stinks, but keep in mind its a sports car
Fun Factor: Best all around car I've ever driven/been in.Apr 01, 2010
by Adam S
Mar 09, 2010
it goes awesome for a standard road NA even when i raced it on the taupo track .good top speed for a NA( goes all the way to the top of the clock before the speed limiter in the ecu stops it and still has more rev range to go). great handling, awesome looks.
great to drive . very easy to drive over really trips.
Mar 09, 2010
by Mitch F
Dec 02, 2009
i love the looks, the feel and the cockpit like interior. even though its 20 years old it's mistaken as brand new. the costs are a little high but worth it. the car for driving is incredible and the handling is perfect.Dec 02, 2009
by Jeff S
Nov 30, 2009
Love everything about it. The sound, the feel, the acceleration, the interior styling, the exterior, extremely fun, no squeeks or rattles, good gas mileage, maintenance is high but with a well built car like the 300zx there isnt as much as a need to fix things.Nov 30, 2009
by Ahmed H
Nov 11, 2009
Above average performance: 222hp in a 19 year old car that sold for $30k new, great handling, decent braking. Great build quality: Every part of the car feels solid. The best appearance: its a beauty on wheels. 20-24mpg highway, very fun to drive!Nov 11, 2009
by Chao X
Nov 07, 2009
Performance - acceleration is good, braking is good, handling
is great
Build Quality - just need to replace timing belt every 60k
Appearance - both interior and exterior styling i s Awesome!
lots of head turners~
Cost of Ownership - gas mileage is great(24 avg mpg),
maintenance is just oil change!
Fun Factor - is this car fun to drive? AbsolutelyNov 07, 2009
by Tommy X
Nov 06, 2009
It is very fun to drive, alot funner than these new cars that are out today. You must test drive one to feel it. If you have a friend with one, ask them to try it out. The steering is tight, you can feel the road. Mine sits lower with a Sprint Sprint and Tokico Shocks lowering kit, and when i corner, it is very stable. I always get thumbs up from people of all ages.Nov 06, 2009
by Alex C
Oct 03, 2009
Great car! Very fun and FAST! Looks as if it was made in 00' or newer. Always turns heads. Always asked what kind of car this is. Stock turbos are great and responsive. Brakes could be better. T-top are awesome! Great car overall and is a blast to drive! Will beat g35, 350z, beamers, and more. Maintenance is not for the faint of heart. Parts are somewhat expensive but are reliable. Oct 03, 2009
by Anonymous
Sep 09, 2009
if you havent owned a 300zx, you have no idea what your missing.
one of the most respected cars to this day, after its debut in the early 90's. considered the poor mans ferrari.
will never ever find another car to top this.Sep 09, 2009
by Paul D
Aug 14, 2009
21st century looks with 20th century drive... a real jap muscle car, with power, looks, and handling. In all.... a real drivers car..... built proffessionally, and nice clean lines, with a plush interior.... your mum loves it, your dad wants it... simplesAug 14, 2009
by Tyler D
Aug 09, 2009
FR set up makes for a fun car. the twin turbos make good top end power but kind of weak low end torque. a bit heavy of a car but it can be lightened if need be. t tops are a plus alsoAug 09, 2009
by Anonymous
Jul 19, 2009
I love my car. Bottom line. I drive a red 2 door 1990 Nissan 300zx. It drives like a champ. The cost of upkeep and gas is a little steep, but the car is a thrill to drive. It's a manual with auto windows and a/c, the works, etc etc. Love it!Jul 19, 2009
by Mitch A
May 19, 2009
I love this cars styling and handling. I hate working under the hood. I dropped a twin turbo engine in and a manual tranny. Pain in the Butt!! Everything went ok until it came down to the vacuum system too. Im still having problems.May 19, 2009
by Toby G
Dec 03, 2008
Comfortable, driving position is awesome, Not many people own one, Love the targa top, 222bhp atw is excellent but it weighs a bit so it's not at it's full potential. I love how the car was one of the first in the revolution of luxury electronics, such as cruise control, auto climate control, etc.
Performance, 222bh/p ATW, 0-100 6sec, 400m in under 15sec
Build-Heavy, 2-door hatch, 2 seater, targa top. Unsure of specific specs
Appearance - It looks similar to the Lamborghini is a Japanese way i guess, some people like them some don't, but its defiantly a shape I've come to love.
Cost - The engine bay is compact, and to do some simple things to the engine means pulling most of it apart, which is time consuming so unless you do the work yourself it can cost a bit in labor, the N/A version, which is what i have is quite reliable, the only issue i have has is cooling system hoses cracking, which have been pretty simple to fix. The car is worth around $7-11k depending on condition and year, the turbo is worth a bit more, also different options such as leather interior, hard top, and the rare soft top can also vary in price. It's not the best thing for fuel consumption but with a few mods and weight reductions it can average about 600km to 70L
Fun- It's amazingly fun, especially in the wet. In summer there's nothing better than going on long road trips with the top down.Dec 03, 2008
by Andrew L
Oct 18, 2008
This car is amazing. Only problem is I don't have enough money to make it faster. But with the mods I have making it stage 3 is well worth the money. Everyone should have a chance to drive a 300zx. So basically if you don't like a 300zx then you are a fool.Oct 18, 2008
by Brittany G
Sep 03, 2008
Great car! Fun to drive! The perfect weekend cruiser! My 300zx was roomy inside, sporty outside, and fun. T-tops, 5-speed, leather seats, power everything. Easy to maintain. And I could actually fit a lot inside that hatchback trunk too! I would recommend this car to anyone. (No cup holders though)Sep 03, 2008
by Anonymous
Aug 02, 2008
my car is 18 years old and has plenty of power for what it is. ive always loved nissans Z cars. its the best car ive owned and makes me happy every time i drive it. a very well put together car inside and out. has some of the most comfortable seats for a sports car. power everything. it couldnt be any better.Aug 02, 2008
by Tyler Z
Jul 17, 2008
FAST and POWERFUL. waiting for my new turbos since my seal is starting to go on my passenger side. once i get time to install it it will be around 365hp. but it is still a great drive. it is a very comfterable ride. but you get good looks and have lots of funJul 17, 2008
by Kyle C
Jun 24, 2008
The VG30DETT Engine is with out a doubt one of the funnest engines, and while the engine bay is very compact, everything is easily accessible. The engine responds well to modifications, and the body is such a sleek piece of art. Lots of technology on the inside, including a two-stage electronic controlled suspension, all-wheel steering with the HICAS system, and power everything. Considering it is an 18 year old car, that is outstanding.Jun 24, 2008
by Aidan J
Jun 20, 2008
Amazing acceleration, extremely good handling, great throttle response, tight steering, amazing lines.Jun 20, 2008
by Lorne R
Jun 17, 2008
Powerful car from the showroom floor with 300hp and 300ft lb's. 3500lb curb weight makes it a tad heavy. 4 wheel disc breaks give great stopping power, 4 wheel steering and rear wheel drive give fantastic handling characteristics, and a Twin Turbo V6 provides good thrust and fuel mileage at the same time.Jun 17, 2008
by Ashton R
Jun 11, 2008
I Like how my car has hard racing suspension,after market exhaust and rims,and a cold air intake.Only thing i dont like is it takes premium gas and only has 2 seats.Jun 11, 2008
by Justin F
Jun 11, 2008
1990 nissan 300zx n/a T-top, with Cold air intake, nismo cam shaft, Visonic sub, 1000 watt amp, and a full custom suede interior.Jun 11, 2008
by Andrew N
Jun 11, 2008
Costs a lot to maintain but is a blast to drive, even in NA form.Jun 11, 2008
by Corey D
May 03, 2008
The Nissan 300zx is everything you could as for in a Sports car. The engine, 225hp on the non Turbo, and 300+hp on the Twin Turbo, 4 wheel disc brakes, and the solid suspension gives you performance to spare. The interior is clean and comfortable, but still manages to retain the sporty look and feel that the luxury cars all seem to be lacking. The exterior has a sleek look that turns the heads of all those you pass by, and with this car, you can pass almost anyone!May 03, 2008
by Kyle K
Apr 12, 2008
I have only had the car since this year, but so far it is amazing. The two seaters don't have a whole lot of room, but that isn't the reason you buy the car. There is also a lot of road noise from the rear wheel wells. If you want a fast, reliable car that isn't too costly, I definetly recommend.Apr 12, 2008
by Wes H
Apr 11, 2008
the 300zx is a great bargain for the performance you get. Expensive exotic looks at a fraction of the cost. Great all around street performer. Handles even better with aftermarket suspension.Apr 11, 2008
by Luke C
Apr 08, 2008
Maybe i'm a little biased but the best car i've ever owned, very underated.Apr 08, 2008
by Jake S
Mar 29, 2008
This car is amazing. I love it. T-tops are awesomeMar 29, 2008
by Andrew M
Mar 09, 2008
Even when the 300zx was launched back in 1990 and I was just a young wipper snapper it was the car I wanted. 10 years later I could actually afford one. Put a huge amount of effort and cash into this car. A superb example and always a pleasure to drive. Gave outstanding comfort, performance and reliabilty when I drove her the 3500KM across Canada.Mar 09, 2008
by Dan T
Feb 27, 2008
Ran well when i first had it and was pretty quick. brakes always were an issue would squeak n such. interior was coming apart slowly but surely. other than that i loved it. ttops were great in the summer had an awesome sound system and people always asked if it was an 06 07 etc LOL.Feb 27, 2008
by Anonymous
Feb 18, 2008
Timeless looks, unparalleled performance, handles like a dream, comfortable ride - drives like a luxury sports car.
"The 300ZX is a dance; it's a song; it's rolling, roaring automotive art. There is no color that doesn't suit it. There is no mood-lifting chemical it can't replace."
- Automobile MagazineFeb 18, 2008
by Hiran A
Feb 16, 2008
Love this car. But expensive to maintain.Feb 16, 2008
by Colin G
Feb 06, 2008
Handles like a dream, quick, and guaranteed to take you down in the twisties!Feb 06, 2008
by Angelica C
Jan 31, 2008
Once you get a chance to take it for a spin, you'll never want to let it go.
A timeless car that always turns heads.
Jan 31, 2008
by Jon M
Jan 02, 2008
The '90 version of the Z32 300ZX was a good step in the right direction. Years following did have slight improvements in many areas but this doesnt mean pass up on a '90. I didnt.Jan 02, 2008
by Johan G
Dec 20, 2007
Comfortable interior, nice handling, lots of fun to drive take it for a drift Dec 20, 2007
by Anonymous
Jun 28, 2007
I own a 1990 300zx 2+2 n/a 5 speed with just under 95k miles. The car is a dream to drive. It does not have back breaking speed but its still a quick car. The only down side is you have to run high grade gas. The gas milage is not bad i get about 20 miles per gallon with about that same time spend on highway as city. I posted some pictures of my Z. enjoyJun 28, 2007
1990 Nissan 300ZX Pricing
Original MSRP
$27,560 to $33,260Price range
N/AAverage price on CG
N/AYoY price change
N/ATrims & specs
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Audio System
Antenna Type: power · Premium Brand: Bose · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: trunk release · Power steering: hydraulic · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Drivetrain
Limited slip differential: rear
Exterior Features
Paint: special factory paint
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Roof
T-Tops: glass
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Audio System
Antenna Type: power · Premium Brand: Bose · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: trunk release · Power steering: hydraulic · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Drivetrain
Limited slip differential: rear
Exterior Features
Paint: special factory paint
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Roof
T-Tops: glass
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Audio System
Antenna Type: power · Premium Brand: Bose · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Power steering: hydraulic · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Drivetrain
Limited slip differential: rear
Exterior Features
Paint: special factory paint
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Roof
T-Tops: glass
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
