Nissan 370Z Fairlady 50th Anniversary Edition: A Legendary Icon Reborn

Heritage Ignited - For decades, the world of automotive design has seen countless innovations, but few vehicles have managed to leave a legacy quite like the Nissan Z series. Sports cars come and go, but some—like the Fairlady—remain etched in the hearts of enthusiasts. First introduced in 1969 as the Datsun 240Z, this sleek machine became a gateway for the world to witness Japanese performance cars that could genuinely challenge the best of Europe and America. Then rapidly the sports car was transform into one of Nissan's iconic cars which grab success in the world's automotive market besides the Nissan GT-R models. 

2020 Nissan 370Z 50th Anniversary Edition on display at the 2019 North American International Auto Show held in New York. (Picture from: TheGentlemanRacer)

As the years passed, the Z line continued to evolve while never straying from its identity. And to mark 50 years of this icon’s journey, Nissan unveiled something truly special: the Nissan 370Z 50th Anniversary Edition. Based on the 370Z Coupe, this anniversary model didn’t attempt to reinvent the wheel. Instead, it refined the details that matter.  

The inspiration car: 1970 Datsun 240Z #46 BRE (Brock Racing Enterprises) that won multiple SCCA National Championships (in 1970 and 1971) with John Morton behind the wheel. (Picture from: TheGentlemanRacer)

Its white paint is paired with bold red graphics that instantly call back to the BRE car’s striking look. Special ‘50th Anniversary’ badges on the fenders and beneath the rear 370Z emblem let onlookers know this isn't just another Z. There’s no over-the-top body kit or excessive flares—just timeless lines and confident detailing that connect past and present.

2020 Nissan 370Z 50th Anniversary Edition in another color scheme on silver with with a black combination. (Picture from: KabarOto)

Under the hood, Nissan kept things pure. A 3.7-liter V6 engine sits at its heart, delivering a potent 332 horsepower and 366 Nm of torque. For those craving even more punch, the NISMO version offers up to 350 hp and 374 Nm. Power is channeled to the rear wheels through a choice of two transmissions: a 6-speed manual for purists or a 7-speed automatic for those who prefer refined shifts. The engine sings when pushed, and the drive remains as engaging as ever—precisely what a Z car is supposed to be.

2020 Nissan 370Z 50th Anniversary Edition retains the sleek profile that has defined Zs of the past, characterized by its low roofline, upswept quarter-window design and slope of the rear hatch. (Picture from: JapaneseSportsCar)

Its performance is supported by 19-inch forged RAYS wheels that feature a two-tone design with a touch of red on the lips, reinforcing the car’s racing-inspired theme. These wheels are wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza S007 high-performance tires, sized 245/40R19, providing both grip and confidence on the road.

2020 Nissan 370Z 50th Anniversary Edition's dashboard red leather with red stitching, red accents on the gear shifter, a dark chrome ‘Z’ logo on the kick plates and a ‘50th Anniversary’ logo on the tachometer. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Inside, Nissan continued the tribute with tasteful flourishes that make the cabin feel special. The leather seats feature red accents and 50th Anniversary embossing, while floor mats and the center console also bear the emblem. Alcantara material wraps the steering wheel, delivering a premium feel, and metal pedals add a sporty touch. A six-speaker Bose audio system rounds out the experience, ensuring that every journey is as enjoyable for the ears as it is for the soul.

2020 Nissan 370Z 50th Anniversary Edition's seat has unique stitching, graphics and the 50th Anniversary logo embossed into the backrests. (Picture from: JapaneseSportsCar)

Buyers could choose between two color combinations: white with red or silver with black—both echoing the timeless racing spirit. Australia, a market with deep appreciation for the Z line, was chosen as one of the key regions for this edition. Pricing started at AUS $53,490 (approx. US $36,180), with the more performance-oriented NISMO variant topping out at AUS $71,076 (approx. US $48,075).

2020 Nissan 370Z 50th Anniversary Edition shows the integration of the boomerang taillights, rear spoiler delete and wide, flared fenders highlight the car’s strong, athletic shape. (Picture from: JapaneseSportsCar)

Stephen Lester, Managing Director of Nissan Australia, summed up the model’s appeal perfectly when he noted that nearly 22,000 Z cars had already found homes across the country. For fans old and new, the 50th Anniversary Edition wasn’t just another special model—it was a piece of living history.

Through the decades, the Fairlady has proven that sports cars don't need to be exclusive to the elite or the exotic. They can be accessible, reliable, and still pulse with passion. Nissan’s 50-year tribute isn’t just about looking back—it’s a reminder of how far a vision can travel when driven by purpose and performance. The Fairlady may have started as a dream, but today, it remains a legend in motion. *** [EKA [04012020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSCOOPS | JAPANESE SPORTS CAR | THEGENTLEMANRACER ]

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