Editing S30/transmissions php (section)

=== Manual Transmissions ===

Datsun/Nissan offered several 4- and 5-speed manual transmissions for the first-generation Z cars. While a European 5-speed was available for the 240Z, it was rarely seen in the US market. It wasn’t until 1977 that a 5-speed became part of the US Z-car lineup.

The 1977–1978 5-speed is a '''wide-ratio''' transmission, meaning the gear spacing is further apart. In contrast, the 1981–1983 280ZX came with a '''close-ratio''' five-speed transmission, preferred for road racing because it keeps the rev range tighter between shifts.

Choosing the “optimum” transmission depends on your driving goals. For most owners, the best option is often the one already in the car. However, if you upgrade your 240Z, 260Z, or 280Z to a 3.90 or higher rear-end ratio, consider a 5-speed swap for improved highway cruising.