As we step into the exhilarating world of automotive design and racing history, there's a spectacle waiting for us at the 2023 SEMA show that is bound to captivate enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Nissan, a name synonymous with innovation and racing heritage, is set to pay homage to its storied past and present with two remarkable vehicles: the Nissan Safari Rally Z Tribute and a replica of the iconic Datsun 240Z Safari rally car. These masterpieces, showcased at the Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall, booth #52141 from October 31 to November 3, 2023, promise to be a highlight of the event.

A Legacy of Success

Nissan's journey through the world of rallying is nothing short of legendary. The Safari Rally Z Tribute, an ode to this legacy, envisions how the seventh-generation Nissan Z could take its exhilarating performance beyond the confines of the racetrack. In a nod to the Datsun 240Z rally car that triumphed at the 1971 East African Safari Rally, this tribute vehicle boasts a design that pays homage to its glorious predecessor.

Embracing the Safari Spirit

In an era where rugged, go-anywhere "safari" builds are gaining popularity, Nissan, in collaboration with Tommy Pike Customs, and their skilled team from South Carolina, has elevated the game. The Safari Rally Z Tribute has undergone a remarkable transformation, equipping it for the dusty trails and demanding terrains of rally racing. Let's delve into the key modifications that make this vehicle truly exceptional.

Suspension and Wheels

To tackle challenging off-road conditions, the custom KW Safari suspension and NISMO suspension parts have lifted the coupe's ride height by 2 inches. This modification not only enhances ground clearance but also accommodates the impressive 17 x 7.5-inch prototype NISMO Safari wheels wrapped in the dirt-ready Yokohama GEOLANDAR M/T G003 tires. These enhancements ensure that the vehicle can conquer rugged terrains with ease.

Protection and Illumination

To safeguard vital powertrain and chassis components, a new front bumper guard and skid plate have been added. Additionally, an array of NISMO Off Road LED lights deliver enhanced visibility in dusty conditions or during night racing. These modifications not only improve the vehicle's aesthetics but also its functionality, allowing it to shine in challenging environments.

Interior Upgrades

Inside the Safari Rally Z Tribute, a custom roll bar equipped with 4-point harnesses and custom-trimmed Recaro Pole Position seats ensures driver and passenger safety and comfort during extreme rallying. These modifications not only showcase the attention to detail but also underscore the vehicle's commitment to both performance and safety.

Powertrain Prowess

The heart of any rally car is its powertrain, and the Safari Rally Z Tribute doesn't disappoint. Featuring an AMS-tuned, 400+ horsepower, VR30DDTT engine, combined with a NISMO Track cat-back exhaust system, cold air intake, carbon fiber engine cover, coolant expansion tank, heat exchanger, and street twin-disc clutch and flywheel, this vehicle offers impressive power and performance, making it a force to be reckoned with on the rally circuit.

Rallying Triumphs

To fully appreciate Nissan's racing heritage, we must acknowledge the remarkable victory of driver Edgar Herrmann and navigator Hans Schüller in the 1971 East African Safari Rally. The #11 Datsun 240Z race car secured the top position in the grueling 3,800-mile race, marking a significant milestone in Nissan's history. It's worth noting that this victory was the second consecutive win for a Datsun racer, with a Datsun Bluebird 1600SSS taking the overall win in the 1970 event.

A Glimpse into History

As a testament to the enduring legacy of Nissan's racing and sports car heritage, the SEMA show will feature a vintage replica of the rally-winning 240Z. This iconic vehicle offers enthusiasts a unique opportunity to witness the rich history of Nissan's racing endeavors up close. Restored to its period-correct condition in 2013, this vehicle is a testament to the commitment to preserving the brand's storied history.

The Seiko Safari Z Watch

Nissan's tribute to its racing heritage extends beyond the vehicles themselves. At SEMA 2023, Nissan will introduce a limited-edition Seiko Safari Z watch. This exclusive timepiece pays homage to the Seiko sponsorship graphics that adorned the original race-winning 240Z rally car. Limited to just 240 pieces, the watch features "Safari" and "Z" branding, along with the iconic Nissan "23" race number on its face. Each watch is individually numbered on the caseback, making it a unique collector's item.