Nissan has always walked a fascinating line between building practical cars for everyday buyers and creating some of the most iconic performance machines in automotive history. While Canadians and Americans often associate the brand with models like the Altima, Rogue, and Sentra, Nissan’s true legacy is far richer. Across decades, it has produced game changing sports cars, innovative sedans, and rugged off roaders. Some of these masterpieces were sold in North America, while others became forbidden fruit that enthusiasts imported years later. Here are ten of Nissan’s greatest creations, expanded with more detail on their engineering brilliance, cultural significance, and why they still matter today.
Nissan GT R R35
When the GT R hit North America in 2008, it sent shockwaves through the industry. Powered by a hand built 3.8 liter twin turbocharged V6, producing around 480 horsepower in its earliest form, the R35 packed supercar performance into a car that cost a fraction of what Ferrari or Lamborghini were charging. Its ATTESA all wheel drive system, dual clutch transmission, and sophisticated computer controls gave it otherworldly grip and speed. Nicknamed a “PlayStation on wheels,” it earned lap times that embarrassed six figure rivals. Over the years, the R35 has evolved to over 600 horsepower, cementing its reputation as a technological masterpiece and showing that Nissan could build a world class supercar under its own badge.
Nissan Skyline GT R R34
The R34 Skyline GT R is the stuff of legend. Produced from 1999 to 2002, it featured the RB26DETT twin turbo inline six, a motor that could be tuned to ridiculous levels of power. With ATTESA all wheel drive and Super HICAS four wheel steering, it was as advanced as anything on the road. While it was never officially sold in North America, the R34 gained cult status through appearances in video games like Gran Turismo and films like Fast and Furious. Canadian enthusiasts, thanks to the 15 year import rule, were among the first in North America to legally own them, turning the R34 into one of the most prized imports on Canadian roads.
Nissan 300ZX Z32
Sold in North America from 1990 to 1996, the 300ZX was a showcase of Nissan’s engineering at its peak. Its sleek, low slung design looked futuristic in the early 90s, and under the hood the twin turbocharged 3.0 liter V6 delivered 300 horsepower, pushing the car into serious performance territory. The Z32 also featured multi link suspension and advanced aerodynamics, giving it superb handling balance. It competed with the likes of the Toyota Supra and Mazda RX 7, holding its own as one of the best Japanese sports cars of its time. Even today, well preserved 300ZX models are highly sought after by collectors who appreciate its blend of speed, comfort, and design.
Nissan 240Z Datsun 240Z
The car that changed everything for Nissan in North America was the Datsun 240Z, launched in 1970. Affordable, stylish, and reliable, the 240Z delivered European sports car flair at a fraction of the price. Powered by a 2.4 liter inline six producing 151 horsepower, it offered brisk performance, sharp handling, and timeless styling with its long hood and short deck proportions. It instantly became a hit in the U.S. and Canada, selling over 150,000 units in just a few years. The 240Z helped redefine Japanese cars in North America, proving they could be sporty, desirable, and not just economical. Today, it stands as one of Nissan’s greatest masterpieces.
Nissan Silvia S15
The Nissan Silvia S15, produced from 1999 to 2002, was the ultimate expression of the Silvia line. With sharp, aggressive styling and the legendary SR20DET turbocharged four cylinder, it combined lightweight balance with turbocharged power. Drifting legends made it a favorite on the track, and tuners embraced its potential to deliver massive horsepower gains. Unfortunately, it was never sold officially in North America, leaving enthusiasts to envy Japan and Australia. The North American market got the Nissan 240SX instead, but the S15 remains the crown jewel of the Silvia family, and Canadian collectors have increasingly brought them over under import laws.
Nissan Patrol
The Nissan Patrol is one of the most respected off road vehicles in the world, often compared to the Toyota Land Cruiser. Known for its rugged durability, solid axles, and powerful engines, the Patrol has conquered deserts, mountains, and jungles across the globe. While never officially sold in North America, it became a legend in the Middle East and Australia. Canadian importers have brought over select models, giving enthusiasts a taste of its legendary capability. If Nissan had ever sold the Patrol widely in North America, it could have been a serious rival to Jeep and Toyota in the off road market.
Nissan 350Z
In the early 2000s, Nissan needed to revive its Z car heritage, and the 350Z did just that. Launched in 2003, it brought back the spirit of the original 240Z with a simple formula: rear wheel drive, a powerful V6, and an affordable price tag. Its 3.5 liter V6 produced up to 306 horsepower in later models, giving it plenty of punch for enthusiasts. The 350Z was also a favorite among tuners and drifters, with a huge aftermarket scene that kept it relevant for years. For North America, it reignited excitement about Nissan sports cars and paved the way for the 370Z and beyond.
Nissan Maxima 4DSC
In the 1990s, the Nissan Maxima earned the moniker “4DSC” or Four Door Sports Car. With a smooth and powerful V6 engine, manual transmission availability, and handling sharper than most family sedans, it was one of the most fun midsize sedans of its era. It appealed to Canadian and American buyers who wanted practicality without giving up driving enjoyment. While the Maxima later evolved into a more comfort oriented car, its 90s era versions remain classics among enthusiasts who remember when Nissan made a family car that could also put a smile on your face.
Nissan Figaro
Perhaps Nissan’s quirkiest masterpiece, the Figaro was produced in 1991 as part of a limited retro styled project. With pastel paint colors, a convertible roof, and a turbocharged 1.0 liter engine, the Figaro looked like nothing else on the road. It was never sold in North America, but Canadian collectors have imported them, and they now enjoy cult status at car shows. The Figaro represents Nissan’s creative side, proving the brand was willing to experiment with style and charm rather than just chasing performance or utility.
Nissan GT R R32
Nicknamed “Godzilla” by the Australian press, the R32 GT R arrived in 1989 and dominated motorsport throughout the early 90s. Powered by the RB26DETT twin turbo inline six and equipped with ATTESA all wheel drive and four wheel steering, it was decades ahead of its time. In Group A touring car racing, it destroyed the competition, earning its fearsome nickname. Though not sold in North America originally, Canadian enthusiasts began importing R32s under the 15 year rule, and they quickly became icons among JDM collectors. The R32 cemented the GT R legend and remains one of Nissan’s greatest creations.
Why Nissan’s Masterpieces Matter
From affordable game changers like the Datsun 240Z to engineering marvels like the R35 GT R, Nissan has proven time and again that it can build cars that change the way people think about performance, design, and value. Some of these masterpieces, like the Maxima and 300ZX, became part of everyday life for Canadian and American drivers. Others, like the Skyline GT R and Silvia S15, remained legends overseas until import laws brought them to new shores. Together, these ten cars show the breadth of Nissan’s history, from humble economy to breathtaking performance, reminding us that this brand has always been more than just practical transportation.
