Z Prototype on display in Los Angeles.

[psdenno]

A search didn't turn up any mention of a Z prototype that I recently saw, so I thought I'd post a picture. The Automobile Driving Museum in El Segundo, near the Los Angeles International airport has a full sized styling prototype of the 350Z on display. I was surprised at how it appeared to resemble the original Z a bit more than the final production model 350Z. Smoother lines, recessed headlights, rounded shape. It was made in 1999.

Here's a link to the photo:

http://www.classiczcars.com/forums/album.php?albumid=496

Here's a link to the Museum:

http://www.automobiledrivingmuseum.org/

It's an interesting museum that gives rides in its cars on Sundays. I got a lengthy ride in a 1926 Pontiac that had only 15,000 original miles. The Z is behind glass. Excuse the cell phone camera picture quality.

Dennis

[72 OJ]

That is sweet, I made a copy and will take it to a photo studio for a quality hard copy and frame it. Thanks

[psdenno]

The next time in the area, I'll take a better camera and get a clearer shot. You can see the rear of the car reflected in the mirror behind it. The museum will soon be opening two additional display buildings - one with cars from Hot Rod Magazine and the other with Hot Wheels and the cars that inspired the models. The Petersen Museum in LA has some of their cars on display loan there, too. A nice Tucker was one of them.

The museum hosts club meetings and events, gives free rides in their cars, and only charges $5 admission. An interesting hidden pleasure.

Dennis

[72 OJ]

I am in the hunt for a ROADSTER, and a few candidates are in LA , if I end up picking it up there I will visit this museum.

[Carl Beck]

Hi Dennis:

See:

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/nissan-350z-concept-cars3.htm

and

http://www.autoworld.com/news/Nissan/Z_Returns.htm

FWIW,

Carl B.

[psdenno]

Thanks, Carl. The card leaning against the car in the museum picture details some of its background. It's interesting to know its current "parking place" as well as its history.

Dennis

[d240zx2]

I certainly like the "concept" 350Z better than what was actually produced.

[bluezcrazy]

I have the "Road & Track" featuring that concept. If I remember right it was going to be a 4 cylinder? I might be mixing it up with some other car, I'll have to see if I can find that magazine and report back.

Bryce

[SteveJ]

You are correct. It was supposed to be a 4 banger. Nissan sent out a survey to Z owners. I know I panned the concept for the 4 cylinder engine and poor styling of the rear of the car.

[mlc240z]

From what I can see, that almost looks like a Porsche (928?) rear end.