Porsche and Nissan have both found success in the Kenyan rally, particularly the East African Safari Rally in the 1970s and ’80s. Porsche released its own rally-inspired version of the iconic 911 last year, known as the limited-edition 911 Dakar. However, Nissan also made a name for itself in the rally with victories in 1970 and 1971 using the Datsun Bluebird 1600SSS and the Datsun 240Z, respectively.
To pay tribute to the rally-winning 240Z, Nissan has created a modern interpretation called the Nissan Safari Rally Z Tribute. This one-off concept car will be showcased at the upcoming 2023 SEMA show. The concept car is based on the current-generation Z sports car and has been customized by Tommy Pike Customs, located in South Carolina. Tommy Pike Customs is well-known for their previous work on vehicles like the Datsun Sunny Truck, which incorporated a Nissan Leaf electric powertrain.
The Nissan Safari Rally Z Tribute features several upgrades to enhance its off-road capabilities. The custom suspension includes components from Nismo and KW, which raise the ride height by two inches. This modification allows for the fitting of prototype 17-inch Nismo Safari wheels wrapped in chunky Yokohama Geolandar M/T (G003) tires.
In addition to the suspension upgrades, the concept car also includes underbody protection such as a front guard and skid plate. The vehicle is equipped with additional lighting from the Nismo Off Road catalog as well. Inside the cabin, the Nissan Safari Rally Z Tribute boasts a custom roll bar with harnesses for added safety, as well as Recaro Pole Position bucket seats with custom trim for a sporty and stylish look.
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To enhance its performance, the Nissan Safari Rally Z Tribute has received a power boost. The Z’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine has been tuned by Illinois’ AMS Performance, resulting in an increased output of more than the stock 400 horsepower rating.
At the SEMA show, Nissan plans to showcase both the Nissan Safari Rally Z Tribute and a replica of the Datsun 240Z that emerged victorious in the 1971 East African Safari Rally. This replica serves as a historical reference point, highlighting the influence of the original 240Z rally car on the creation of the concept.
The SEMA show, which takes place from October 31 to November 3 in Las Vegas, will serve as the stage for Nissan to present its Safari Rally Z Tribute and other exciting vehicles. Alongside the concept car, Nissan will also showcase the recently revealed Sentra DET concept, which draws inspiration from the legendary SE-R model with additions from Nismo.
While the Safari Rally Z Tribute is a one-off concept, there is no confirmation from Nissan about plans for a production version or whether they will offer similar upgrades for the Z sports car in the future. SEMA attendees and automotive enthusiasts will have the opportunity to see this unique concept firsthand and imagine the possibilities for their own off-road adventures.
In conclusion, Nissan’s Safari Rally Z Tribute is a fitting homage to the rally-winning Datsun 240Z from the 1971 East African Safari Rally. This one-off concept car showcases the brand’s commitment to performance and adventure by combining modern technology and design with a nostalgic nod to the historic rally car. With its custom suspension, protective underbody features, enhanced lighting, and increased power, the Nissan Safari Rally Z Tribute is sure to turn heads at the 2023 SEMA show.
