abstract
| - The impact of the first generation Z was so phenomenal. So much that even the third generation Z appearing 14 years later, still kept the basic form of the first Z. This 3rd generation Z however, was equipped with a new V6 engine. Seeing as how the Skyline did not change to a V6 until 20 years later, you can tell that the Z was given a global position from its very beginning. The exterior appears long-nosed, but the shortened engine was mounted further towards the rear, improving the forward/rear weight distribution. This gave it an agility more suited for a sports car. The 3L turbo VG30ET boasted the highest Japanese domestic power output of 227 HP and 245.9 ft-lb of torque, but it was actually tuned for acceleration rather than maximum power, and designed to produce torque across almost all rpm ranges. There was also a 2L V6 turbo, which produced 168 HP and 159.1 ft-lb of torque. However, the Z had a good share of die-hard fans who preferred the natural feel of the straight-6 engine. In 1985, a straight-6 turbo model called the 200ZR was offered for this niche. This engine was he new generation RB20DET, a legendary unit which powered a large variety of Nissans until the end of the 20th century. The RB engine in the Z put out a modest 178 HP, but it was incredibly lighter and more natural than the type L engines in the past. It was engine that would make you want to keep shifting, just to enjoy the short burst of engine revs. The 3rd generation Z received a minor model change in 1986, where the exterior was changed drastically. A 187 HP normally aspirated model called the 300ZR was added, completing the wide range of variations offered for the 3rd generation Z.
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