Nissan’s legendary GTP ZX-Turbo, a 1980s motorsport icon, will make a special appearance at Monterey Car Week
The Nissan GTP ZX-Turbo, a standout in 1980s motorsport, will use the Monterey Car Week to make a rare public appearance as part of the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion.
The Nissan GTP ZX-Turbo was a dominant force in the IMSA GT Series from 1985 to 1990.
Developed by Electramotive Engineering in California and originally built by Lola Cars in the UK, the car symbolised Nissan’s commitment to motorsport.
Its notoriety grew in the 1988 season when drivers Geoff Brabham and John Morton drove the GTP ZX-Turbo to a series of victories – on their way to securing the IMSA Constructor’s Championship in 1989 and defending the title in 1990.
“It was unbelievable. We won at Atlanta, then at West Palm Beach,” said Ashley Page, the team crew chief who joined the project in 1984.
“I knew from the start that this project was going to be something special.”
Chris Willes, who joined Electramotive Engineering in 1986, said: “We were constantly pushing the limits, especially enhancing the car’s aerodynamics.”
The GTP ZX-Turbo’s Monterey appearance comes at a time of notable anniversaries for Nissan.
This year marks 35 years since the GTP ZX-Turbo’s IMSA Championship win – and also coincides with the 55th anniversary of the Datsun 240Z, the 35th anniversary of the Nissan 300ZX (Z32), and the 15th anniversary of the Nissan 370Z.
In honour of those milestones, a Nissan Z Heritage Edition will be showcased.
Specifications
| Overall length / width / height | 4,800/2,000/1,016mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,705mm |
| Tread (front/rear) | 1,571/1,530mm |
| Curb weight | 860kg |
| Engine | VG30ET (V6, DOHC), 2,966cc |
| Engine Max. power | Over 478kW (650PS)/8,000rpm |
| Engine Max. torque | Over 686Nm (70.0kgm)/5,500rpm |
| Transmission | Weismann (5-speed) |
| Suspension | Special A-arm & coil (front & rear) |
| Brakes (front, rear) | 13in. 4-pod, ventilated disc |
| Tires (front) | 325/625-415 |
| Tires (rear) | 350/680-415 |
| Note: Chassis: Lola T810 (1985 only), Nissan chassis (1986-89) | |
Legacy and Restoration
Chassis #8801 of the GTP ZX-Turbo, one of the most celebrated in its series, is currently undergoing restoration at Z Car Garage in San Jose.
Nissan says the restoration project will ensure the car’s legacy will continue for future generations. Its significance will also be recognised with an upcoming induction into the 2024 IMSA Hall of Fame, alongside Geoff Brabham.
“Our journey with the GTP ZX wasn’t just about building a race car. It was about pushing the limits of what was possible, both on and off the track,” said Willes.