Is there a single factor that can make a car desirable? Perhaps it’s the performance of the vehicle, how fast it can go and how well it can handle whatever life throws at it? Or maybe it’s versatility, what this particular model can do that other cars simply cannot? Maybe a hint of luxury could turn the attention of some buyers? Whatever that factor is, one can be sure that the 1988 300ZX has it, as this is simply one of the best cars that a person could drive. Although the body styling may be showing it’s age, and you should expect some problems when purchasing a 20 year old car, the 1988 300 is almost always an excellent buy for the money, and it should give the buyer years and years of enjoyment.
When it comes to appearance, few cars really have the potential to match the Z31. While the previous generations (1984 to 1986) suffered from a style that was a little too “sharp” and had quite a bit of edges, the 1988 model embodies Nissan’s change to a rounder and more stylish body. With the change comes a rounded front bumper, smaller and more functional flip up headlights, and redesigned tail lights that do not dwarf the back bumper. The car also gets somewhat of a stock body kit, and its ground clearance is effectively lower. All of this combines to create a body which is both powerful and unique. It is very difficult to compare the 300ZX to any other car, and that is a very good thing. The 300 harkens back to a day when automobile manufactures attempted to make their products look different from their competition, and this car is a perfect embodiment of how Nissan wanted their Z car to stand out from the crowd. While some may still find the appearance of the 300 to be somewhat blocky, the lines flow smoothly on the car, and everything seems in direct proportion to everything else, creating a visual style which is both unique and appealing on any number of levels.
However, perhaps the category where the 300ZX loses most of its points is on the interior. Even though Nissan perhaps attempted to create a car which had a functional, yet stylish interior, it seems that they put a little too much emphasis on function. While the blocky inside does seem somewhat harsh at first glance, it tends to grown on the driver very quickly. All of the controls are a breeze to operate, and the eight-way power seats found on the GS model are a joy to sit in. Even after 20 years, the leather on the GS models still feels comfortable, the seats look modern, and the controls tend to have a very long lifespan. However, certain controls may seem a little strange in their placement, such as the power windows and locks. Also note that one of the most common problems associated with the Z31 are the power window motors, and those who are planning to purchase a 300 should be ready to replace at least one of the window motors. The interior does tend to grow on the driver, and the incredibly versatile seats and numerous options that come in the cabin really do enhance the driving experience, but those expecting modern sports car style will doubtlessly be disappointed.
While interior design may not be the 300’s strong point, driving definitely is. To find a car that drives like the 300 today is a rare feat indeed. Even though the non turbo (GS) model was only rated at 165 horse power for 1988, there is no lack of either power or torque to be found in the VG30E motor. While those seeking something a little faster may wish to pursue one of the turbo models, there really is no need of it, the N/A motor performs just fine, and it takes very little money to turn the car into a performance machine. Besides from actual engine performance, however, the 300 drives with an amazing amount of grace and fluidity for a 1988 car. The rear while drive grips the road and provides even acceleration, and the stock t-tops on the vehicle are a joy to take out in good weather and cruise around in. The stock clutch feels a bit soft at times, but it does perfectly match the driving style of the car. Other options such as heated side mirrors, a rear wiper, and steering wheel mounted volume controls only enhance the fun and overall coolness of the 300ZX.
Of course, no car is perfect, and the 300 has it’s faults just like anything else. Namely, expect to perform regular maintenance on the car, however, this is to be expected from something which is going on twenty. The 300 though, being rear wheel drive, is not designed for operation in snow, and drivers are strongly advised not to attempt driving through winter conditions, the Z is a summer car, and for the low prices it can be attained at, it should not be treated as anything else. Gas mileage is reasonable, hitting between twenty and twenty three miles per gallon, and one would honestly be hard pressed to find a car that is as much fun as a 300ZX.
While the style may not agree with everyone, and it does have some quirks, the 1988 300ZX GS 2+2 is an incredibly enjoyable car. Nothing can compare with the feeling of cruising down a windy road in the summer, t-tops out and the stereo turned up, it is simply one of the best feelings in the world.
