The 2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition makes its debut in the United States to celebrate 55 years of the iconic Z sports car lineage.
With retro-inspired styling and a limited production run, the Heritage Edition draws design cues from the renowned Datsun 240Z that established Z-cars in American roads back in 1969.
Priced at $60,275, the special model sits in between Nissan’s regular Z Performance and range-topping Z NISMO.
Designed to appeal passionate fans of the brand’s historical nameplate, the Heritage Edition carries over the 400-horsepower engine from other Z variants while standing out with model-exclusive color and graphics.
Debut and Evolution of the Fairlady Z Customized Proto
The Z Heritage Edition’s design concept traces back to the customized Fairlady Z Proto unveiled at the 2022 Tokyo Auto Salon. This prototype first previewed the retro theme with body stripes and “Z Customized” logos Nissan would adopt.
Later in mid-2023, the production Fairlady Z Customized Edition launched in Japan with similar orange color and graphics as its conceptual predecessor. While not available overseas initially, Nissan decided to introduce an equivalent model tailored for the American market as the Z Heritage Edition.
At around 9.5 seconds, it can sprint from 0-60 mph similar to the regular Performance trim. 57% of Z buyers have opted for the optional 6-speed manual thus far, finding it enhances the driving involvement over the automatic option.
Introduction of the 2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition in the US
Nissan unveiled the new 2024 Z Heritage Edition in the United States in June 2023. Paying homage to the iconic 1969 Datsun 240Z, the Heritage Edition was offered with special design cues and badging inspired by the original model.
At $60,275, the car gets its power from a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 putting out 400 horsepower. This is paired with either a 6-speed manual or 9-speed automatic transmission as with the regular Z Performance trim.
Available in limited numbers only for the 2024 model year, the Heritage Edition brings the classic Z charm to newer generations of buyers while commemorating 55 years of the nameplate.
Production is expected to conclude by the end of 2024 with an estimated figure of under 1,000 units allocated for the U.S.
Celebrating 55 Years of the Datsun 240Z Legacy
The 1969 Datsun 240Z revolutionized the affordable sports car scene when it first launched. With its 106-horsepower 2.4-liter inline-6 engine and rear wheel drive dynamics, the “Z” established a legacy of delightful driving that still resonates today.
Several milestone successors like the 280Z and 300ZX further elevated the brand’s performance credentials worldwide. Now in its sixth generation, the latest 2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition carries the torch of the past through its retro styling style and powerful yet attainable characteristics.
With the Z Heritage Edition, Nissan celebrates this rich tradition set forth by the pioneering 1969 Datsun 240Z. Paying it forward, the limited edition will undoubtedly serve as a cherished collectible for fans of Japan’s iconic “Fairlady Z” well into the future.
Exclusive Sight Orange Paint and Retro Design Elements
A standout feature of the 2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition is its Sight Orange paintwork, a color that pays homage to the original 240Z introduced more than five decades ago.
The bold orange hue draws attention and immediately identifies this special model. Additional retro styling cues include a black hood decal that replicates the graphics of early 240Z cars by extending to the roof and trunk lid.
Special “2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition” badges are affixed around both rear fender Z emblems. Subtle yet striking, these badging elements lend nostalgic vibes while preserving the streamlined profile of the modern Z.
2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition Exterior Enhancements: Decals, Grille, and Fender Extensions
Complementing the Sight Orange shade are black fender side stripes running from the front to rear. Graphic decals along the lower body panels further promote the car’s throwback theme.
Up front, the split grille takes after the 240Z’s design with its squared-off openings. Helping distinguish the Heritage Edition from a distance are eye-catching fender extensions wrapping the front and rear wheels in body color.
They add 40mm to the overall width for a bold stance while neatly covering a set of 19-inch matte black aluminum-alloy rims. Overall, Nissan’s designers have hit the right nostalgic nuances to satisfy 240Z fans both old and new with this homage model.
2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition Specs: Engine, Transmission Options, and Pricing
Powering the 2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition is the renowned 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 borrowed from other Z variants that produces 400 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque.
This gives the special model sub-5 second 0-60 mph runs matching the Performance trim level. Transmission choices include a traditional 6-speed manual or 9-speed automatic transmission.
The 2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition sits on P245/40R19 high-performance tires wrapped around 19-inch alloy wheels. With an MSRP of $60,275, it costs $6,165 more than the Z Performance.
Production will be limited in quantity with all cars pre-sold by Nissan dealerships for the 2024 model year.
Comparison Between the Nissan Z Heritage Edition and Z Nismo
While the 2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition draws exterior and interior design influences from the 1969 240Z, the range-topping Z NISMO variant focuses on optimized dynamic capability.
The NISMO features weight savings and aerodynamic tweaks along with standard carbon fiber spoiler and vented hood. Its 3.0-liter V6 receives a power boost to 414 horsepower versus 400 ponies.
Front brakes are upgraded further to 6-piston calipers for superior stopping strength. Only the 9-speed automatic is available at a higher base price of $65,750.
As a less-powerful yet beautifully nostalgic special series, the Heritage Edition carves its own niche for collectors beside the track-hungry NISMO.
Interior Features and Technology of the Z Heritage Edition
The 2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition offers an elegant cabin complementing its retro exterior. Premium semi-aniline leather and suede-like Dinamica upholstery cover the seats and door panels.
Heated front seats provide driver comfort while 12-way power-adjustable settings including lumbar ensure ideal driving positions. Unique heritage-branded aluminum pedals and sill plates with contrasting orange stitching add interior distinction.
Advanced technologies include a standard 9.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, a 9-speaker Bose audio system fills the cabin with crisp sounds.
Other standard features are navigation, wireless device charging and remote start functions. Overall, the luxurious interior satisfies both vintage and modern influencers.
Final Words
With the introduction of the 2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition, the automaker marks a stunning 55 years since the launch of the revolutionary original 240Z.
Drawing exterior and interior inspiration from that iconic Datsun model, the limited-edition car pays homage to its illustrious lineage in stylish fashion.
While priced above comparable Z trims, collectors looking to own a piece of Z heritage representing this important anniversary will value its exclusive orange-and-black looks and special touches.
With production capped globally, the Heritage Edition is certain to become highly coveted among longtime Z fans and a prime candidate for future appreciation.
Nissan leaves no doubt about the perpetual magnetism exerted by the storied “Fairlady Z” name through six decades and counting. Stay connected with the Auto Freak website as we will keep this post updated with more information about the 2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition. If you know something, then do share your views with us via the comments below.
