Nissan Z SEMA coverage rarely feels this purposeful. Two one-off cars drawn from 60 years of the Z landed in Las Vegas, and both hint at where the brand’s performance focus is heading. One is a track-ready current Z. The other is a Datsun restomod that trades its original powertrain for modern muscle.
Nissan Z SEMA Project NAT2 Track Weapon
Engineered by the Nissan Acceleration Team, Project NAT2 targets SCCA Touring 2 specifications. On paper, it should outrun the Nissan Z NISMO, which uses the Z NISMO six-speed as its benchmark. Still, the twin turbos carry 38 mm restrictors, and Nissan has not said how much power survives that cap.
Chassis work is where this build looks most serious. Nismo coilovers, adjustable sway bar links, and polyurethane bushings tighten the car considerably. The standout is a Z1 Motorsports brake package with 380 mm two-piece front rotors. Rear hardware stays stock to meet class rules, which is a sensible concession.
Datsun S30 Restomod Meets Modern Turbo Power
Built with Formula Drift champion Chris Forsberg, the Datsun S30 Concept keeps its classic silhouette intact. Inside, Garrett turbochargers feed the same twin-turbo V6 from the current Z. A six-speed manual, twin-disc clutch, and Nismo limited-slip differential handle the delivery.
Stopping power gets equal attention. Wilwood six-piston calipers clamp 300 mm discs up front, while four-piston rears work 280 mm discs. Coilovers at all four corners and a new steering rack complete a chassis that feels built for drifting rather than museum display.
Production Strategy Behind Nissan’s SEMA Sandbox
Both cars are one-offs, and that matters. SEMA builds let Nissan test parts and gauge enthusiasm without committing factory capital. Ultimately, the real question is whether the Nismo brake package or the Forsberg-approved suspension reaches showrooms. Expect a limited Nismo-badged option before any full production program.
Ultimately, Nissan Z SEMA is less about two show cars than a brand testing its enthusiast credibility. The NAT2 suggests that future performance Zs will sell on track hardware, not just straight-line numbers.
Liam Campbell
Industry Intelligence & News Editor at Auto News Magazine. Tracking prototype spy shots, Nürburgring development mules, automaker corporate moves, and breaking global automotive scoops.
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