A Classic Datsun, Two Turbochargers, And A Nissan Z Engine: What Could Go Wrong?

Nissan brought two very different kinds of trouble to this year's SEMA Show. One is a modern Z built to spend its weekends chasing lap times, while the other takes a classic Datsun S30 and gives it the heart of a current-generation sports car. Both are one-off projects, but there's some serious engineering behind them, and neither looks particularly interested in staying parked.

The first is the Project NAT2 SCCA Touring 2, developed by Nissan's own Acceleration Team. Based on the current Z, it was built to meet SCCA Touring 2 racing regulations. Its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 gets a Nismo cold-air intake, stainless steel exhaust, custom ECU tuning, and several cooling upgrades. The turbochargers also receive 38 mm restrictors to meet class rules.

Nissan has spent just as much time underneath the car. Nismo coilovers, upgraded control arms, sway bars, and suspension bushings help keep the Z planted through corners. Braking comes from Z1 Motorsports, with six-piston front calipers and 380 mm two-piece rotors. The rear setup remains largely standard to satisfy racing regulations.

Outside, 18-inch forged wheels and a white, blue, and red paint scheme give it a proper competition look. Inside, the regular cabin has made way for a roll cage, Sabelt racing seats, a racing steering wheel, and a custom dashboard.

The second project might appeal even more to fans of old-school Japanese sports cars. Built with Formula Drift champion Chris Forsberg, the Datsun S30 Concept keeps the classic shape but swaps its original engine for the current Nissan Z's twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6. Garrett turbochargers, upgraded cooling, a six-speed manual gearbox, and a Nismo limited-slip differential make the package considerably more interesting.

Wilwood brakes, aftermarket coilovers, upgraded suspension components, and a new steering rack handle the chassis side. Carbon-fiber fenders and bumpers add a modern touch, while Seiran Blue paint keeps the classic Datsun looking fresh. Inside, OMP racing seats and a Grip Royal steering wheel finish the job.

Nissan hasn't announced plans to sell either project. Still, between the track-ready Z and Forsberg's V6-powered Datsun, the brand has given SEMA visitors two pretty convincing reasons to look twice.