S30 Decoding your Vin
Each S30 Z-car is fitted with several information plates located in various positions, ranging from the firewall to the door frame. These plates contain key details about the vehicle’s identity, including VIN, production date, paint code, and other factory specifications.
Below is an example of a model plate and guidance on how to read it.
S30 Chassis Prefixes Explained
There is often confusion about what the S30 chassis prefixes mean. While this guide aims to be accurate, it may contain errors — input from experts is always welcome to ensure correctness.
American Market
- HLS30 — Datsun 240Z with L24 engine. Build dates start in 1969. “L” = Left-hand drive.
- RLS30 — Datsun 260Z with L26 engine. Build dates began in 1974.
- GRLS30 — Datsun 260Z 2+2 with L26 engine and two extra seats. Left-hand drive.
- HLS30 (later) — Datsun 280Z, same prefix but later chassis numbers. L-Jetronic fuel injection and US 5 mph bumpers.
Australian & European Market
- HS30 — Datsun 240Z. First car believed to be HS30-0004. L24 engine, 5-speed or automatic. Build dates from 1970.
- RS30 — Datsun 260Z, 2-seater only. L26 engine.
- GRS30 — Datsun 260Z 2+2. “G” = 4-seater. L26 engine. Produced until late 1977.
Japanese Domestic Market (JDM)
- S30 — Nissan Fairlady Z with L20A (carbureted).
- S30 — Nissan Fairlady Z with L20E (fuel injected).
- GS30 — Nissan Fairlady Z 2+2 with L20E.
- PS30 — Nissan Fairlady Z 432 with S20 engine (4 valves, 3 carbs, 2 cams). More info
- PS30-SB — Nissan Fairlady Z 432R, S20 engine, built for racing. “SB” not stamped on chassis, factory reference only. More info
- HS30-H — Nissan Fairlady 240ZG with L24 engine and G-nose package (headlight covers, fender flares). “H” suffix factory reference only.
Braking the VIN Down
On the S30, the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) or car serial number is located in two places: on the far-left edge of the dashboard and on the firewall above the brake booster.
The VIN can be decoded as follows:
| VIN Position | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1–3 | Chassis Prefix | HLS (US 240Z) |
| 4–5 | Engine & Body Type | 30 (S30 Chassis) |
| 6+ | Sequential Production Number | 123456 |
ID Plate
On the left side of the engine bay, there is a Car ID plate containing key specifications.
- Car Type
- Engine Capacity
- Maximum Horsepower
- Wheelbase
- Engine Serial Number
- Car Serial Number / VIN
Color Code Label
The body color number plate is attached to the top of the radiator core support.
More information on paint colors can be found here.
Sources Used
- 1970-1978 Datsun Factory Service Manuals
- Zhome.com