In America the Z-car went on hiatus from 1997 to 2002, as Nissan focused more on SUVs and was also in some financial trouble. To keep Z-car interest alive, Nissan launched a restoration program in 1998 for which they purchased original 240Zs, professionally restored them, and re-sold them at dealerships for about $24,000.

Nissan next launched a concept car at the 1999 North American International Auto Show, the 240Z Concept. Clearly a throwback to the original, it was a bright orange two-seater with classic swept-back styling. In addition, it was fully functional, with the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder KA24DE engine from the Nissan Altima featuring 200 bhp (150 kW) and 180 lb•ft (244 N•m) of torque. The designers used an original 240Z to provide inspiration and the concept was created in only 12 weeks. Unfortunately critics said “it would be cool but get a new model.”[11]

The running concept, featuring a 4-cylinder engine compared to the Z-car’s traditional 6-cylinder engine, was eventually thought a less than a worthy successor to the line.[12][13]