Automotive
There’s something special about seeing a classic Japanese sports car brought back to life with modern performance hardware, especially when that car happens to be the legendary Datsun 240Z. Nissan is giving enthusiasts plenty to get excited about at the 2026 SEMA Show with two wildly different interpretations of its iconic Z sports car. One is a beautifully executed Datsun S30 restomod packing modern twin-turbocharged V6 power, while the other is a track-focused Nissan Z built to compete in SCCA Touring 2 racing. Together, these two creations demonstrate how Nissan’s performance heritage continues to inspire everything from old-school restoration projects to serious modern race cars.
Let’s start with the Datsun S30 Concept, which might be our favorite of the two simply because of how well it blends the original Z’s timeless styling with contemporary performance. Developed with Formula Drift champion and longtime Nissan collaborator Chris Forsberg, the restomod retains the unmistakable proportions of the original 240Z while replacing its aging powertrain with the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 from today’s Nissan Z. The engine receives upgraded Garrett PMAX turbochargers, NISMO cold-air intakes, and an upgraded heat exchanger. Power is sent through a six-speed manual transmission paired with a NISMO twin-disc clutch and flywheel, while a NISMO limited-slip differential helps put the additional performance to the pavement. Nissan hasn’t announced an official horsepower figure, but considering the standard Z already produces 400 horsepower, there’s clearly plenty of potential here.
The classic Datsun also receives extensive chassis and braking upgrades to handle its newfound performance. Techno Toy Tuning supplies adjustable coilovers, upgraded control arms, sway bars, steering components, and chassis bracing. A Wilwood braking system features six-piston front calipers with 300-mm rotors and four-piston rear calipers with 280-mm rotors. The exterior remains faithful to the original Z’s beautiful lines, although lightweight carbon fiber replaces the front fenders, hood, bumpers, hatch, and several aerodynamic components. Finished in Nissan’s striking Seiran Blue paint with NISMO anniversary graphics, the car rides on 17-inch forged NISMO wheels. Inside, OMP racing seats, a Grip Royal steering wheel, custom gauges, and a NISMO shift knob complete a cabin that mixes vintage character with modern motorsports equipment.
On the opposite end of the spectrum is the Nissan Project NAT2 SCCA Touring 2 Z, a purpose-built race car developed by the Nissan Acceleration Team. This group of Nissan employees shares a passion for motorsports and wanted to create something capable of competing in actual sanctioned racing rather than simply looking impressive on a show floor. Based on the current Nissan Z, Project NAT2 retains the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 but adds 38-mm turbo inlet restrictors to comply with SCCA Touring 2 regulations. Additional performance upgrades include a NISMO cold-air intake, a GT4-inspired stainless steel exhaust, custom engine tuning, upgraded cooling systems, and a modified oil pan. Nissan has also added dedicated engine oil and differential coolers to help manage temperatures during extended track sessions.
The suspension and braking modifications are equally serious. Project NAT2 features NISMO coilovers, upgraded front upper control arms, adjustable sway bars, and stiffer suspension bushings, along with reinforced engine and transmission mounts. Stopping power comes from a Z1 Motorsports big brake package featuring six-piston front calipers and massive 380-mm two-piece rotors. Interestingly, the rear brakes retain their factory calipers and rotors to satisfy class regulations, although upgraded racing brake pads and stainless steel lines improve performance. The car rides on forged 18-inch NISMO-designed RAYS wheels wrapped in 275-section Maxxis racing tires. With these modifications, the goal is clearly to create a Z capable of delivering consistent, predictable performance during demanding racing conditions.
Inside the Project NAT2, almost everything unnecessary has been removed in the pursuit of lower weight and competition readiness. The stripped cabin features a full SCCA-specification roll cage, a Sabelt racing seat and six-point harness, a racing steering wheel with paddle shifters, and a custom dashboard. Additional equipment includes a fire suppression system, racing data logger, and onboard camera system. Outside, a striking white, red, and blue livery designed by NISMO Design Japan pays tribute to Nissan’s racing history, while functional hood vents improve engine cooling. It’s the kind of build that reminds us how capable the current Z platform can be when engineers focus on lap times rather than everyday comfort and convenience.
Both vehicles will be displayed at Nissan’s booth during the 2026 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, November 3 through November 6, alongside the equally interesting 300-horsepower Sentra Spec-V Concept. Unfortunately, neither Z creation is intended for production, although Nissan has indicated that some of the ideas and performance components showcased at SEMA could influence future vehicles or accessories. From our perspective, the Datsun S30 restomod is the standout because there’s something almost irresistible about classic 240Z styling backed by a modern twin-turbo V6 and a proper manual transmission. The track-ready Project NAT2 is equally impressive for completely different reasons, demonstrating what enthusiasts can accomplish with the current Z platform and the right collection of NISMO performance parts. We’re glad to see Nissan continuing to celebrate its performance heritage, especially at a time when affordable, enthusiast-focused sports cars are becoming increasingly rare.
Mike Floyd is a finance executive by trade and a car enthusiast at heart. As a CFO with a keen eye for detail and strategy, Mike brings his analytical mindset to the automotive world, uncovering fresh insights and unique perspectives that go beyond the surface. His passion for cars—especially his favorite, the Porsche 911, fuels his contributions to Automotive Addicts, where he blends a love for performance and design with his professional precision. Whether he’s breaking down industry trends or spotlighting emerging innovations, Mike helps keep the site both sharp and forward-thinking.
