The Development of a High-Performance Suspension for the New Nissan 300ZX

In developing the new suspension used on Nissan's 300ZX model, special emphasis was placed on improving high-speed driving stability and controllability, as this suspension was specifically intended for use on a sports car. To achieve these development targets, a high-speed concept car based on the 280ZX was trial-manufactured with the cooperation of the Central Engineering Laboratories prior to the development of the 300ZX. In tests on the concept car it was confirmed that the cornering power of the rear wheels had to be increased to improve high-speed driving stability and controllability.

The 300 ZX suspension has been developed around the basic ideas confirmed with the highspeed concept car. Other refinements made to the suspension include upgraded turning performance, a reduction of pitching motions caused by braking and driving forces and improved noise and vibration characteristics.