The Nissan Z concept is a modern version of the original Datsun 240Z launched in 1969. The concept has been produced by Nissan Design International based in California, led by Jerry Hirshberg, formally of GM. The idea of revisiting the Datsun 240Z to produce a modern car was something Hirshberg had been toying with when he suggested it quite casually to bosses from Nissan. Hirshberg provided Nissan with several sketches and a clay model that he had been working on.

Having passed on his idea to Nissan, bosses there quickly came back to him with the go-ahead for a full size clay model. However, it was decided that the model should be completed in less than four weeks. Reaction by Nissan to the clay model was very positive and additional funds were located to construct a fully functional car.

"It wasn't hard to get folks to work on a new Z. The original car was such a cultural icon. It represented the soul of Nissan in 1969. It was a car that connected to a whole generation of sports car lovers."

The links between the concept and the original Z are apparent, including the C-pillar and the overall sleek form. The headlight recesses, the form of the rear and the long bonnet and steep windscreen were significant features Hirshberg says he carried through.

"Because of the speed we built it, we're not there yet. This is a work in progress. I think we have the theme and the basic direction but there needs to be detail changes; like taking some weight from the lines of the rear and putting some more shape in the nose around the intake."

If the Z concept were to come to production, it would be heavily based on an existing model. Nissan's £13 billion debt means that making use of the same underlying components in different vehicles is the only economically viable way of producing the car. Correctly targeting its potential market is essential.

"In terms of performance and size it's spot on. It offers rear wheel drive, the right power, just the right dimensions and we could bring it in at the right price."