FYI: Nissan’s iconic heritage collection offers a glimpse into the automaker’s storied past and its remarkable achievements in automotive history.
Rediscovering Nissan’s Rich Legacy
Despite economic challenges, Nissan’s legacy in Japan’s automotive history remains unmatched. Nestled within this heritage is a collection of iconic vehicles that have defined the brand over the decades. Nissan’s dedication to preserving its automotive legacy can be seen at the Zama Heritage Car Garage, where a select group was granted an exclusive hour of exploration.
A Tour Through Time
Visitors were welcomed by Shirasaka’s R33 GT-R LM edition and two R35 GT-R Nismos belonging to Meme-San, symbolizing a harmonious blend of manufacturer precision and aftermarket creativity. The journey began with a brief history of Nissan and its motorsport division, Nismo, enlightening guests about the brand’s evolution.
The collection unfolds with production cars from the early open-wheel Phaeton to the celebrated models of the early 2000s. Notable highlights included the Fairlady Z models, like the 1969 S30 Z432, showcased in bright orange, and its 1970 counterpart, the S30 ZL. Nearby, the early Skyline models, from 1971’s C10 base to the celebrated KPGC10 GT-R, mark a period when Nissan’s innovation truly soared in the 1970s.
The Motorsport Heritage
Nissan’s prowess on the racetrack is immortalized through their vast lineup of race cars. From Le Mans to GT1 series and JGTC, the automaker has left an indelible mark on motorsports. Highlights from the collection include the Super Silhouette race cars from the late 1970s and early 1980s, flaunting the boxy designs that inspired today’s Kaido Racers.
Of course, Nissan’s illustrious Skyline models didn’t go unnoticed, with the RB-powered R32s displayed in their GT-R, GTS-T, and Autech variants. The R33 and R34 Skylines stood proudly alongside the formidable GT1 racers, with the Pennzoil GT-Rs drawing significant attention.
Embracing Nissan’s Unique Concepts
Among these historic vehicles was the rare R33 GT-R 400R. With only 44 units produced, it stands out with its robust 400 horsepower RB-X GT2 engine. Also notable was the 1987 Mid4 II concept, featuring groundbreaking all-wheel-drive and mid-engine design, which introduced technology that would later appear in the legendary R32 Skyline GT-R.
An Ode to Enthusiasm
This exclusive insight into Nissan’s automotive marvels wouldn’t have been possible without passionate enthusiasts. The exhibit reflects Nissan’s innovative spirit and celebrates its lasting impact on the automotive industry.
For more insights and updates, reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi, or on Twitter @automotivefyi.
Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
Nissan’s Heritage Collection remains one of the most comprehensive automotive history exhibits, offering admirers a unique peek into the evolution of one of the most revered automakers. Each visit reaffirms Nissan’s enduring legacy and crafts an enriching experience for every car enthusiast.
