Nissan Z retrospective: From Datsun Fairlady to present day

The original 1969 Datsun Fairlady Z.

This is the 1970 Datsun 240Z.

This gorgeous little thing is the 1972 Datsun 240Z.

The Z continued to be offered as a Datsun in the '70s -- this is the 1976 Datsun 240Z.

The car has always carried the "Fairlady" moniker in Japan.

Japanese-spec cars also have the classic fender mirrors.

The Z's wedge shape carried on throughout the '80s.

This is one of the most recognizable sports cars from the 1980s.

This is the limited-edition 50th Anniversary Nissan Z.

Keep scrolling for more photos of Nissan Zs from the past and present.