Nissan Z Gets an Aston Martin Makeover—and It Surprisingly Works

In the world of custom car builds, few transformations manage to strike a balance between bold creativity and cohesive design. But one Australian enthusiast has done just that—by giving a Nissan Z the face of an Aston Martin. The result? A head-turning fusion of Japanese engineering and British elegance that somehow feels harmonious despite its unlikely pairing.

🛠️ The Vision Behind the Build

Jordan Harper, a car enthusiast based in Brisbane, Australia, is the mastermind behind this unique project. Starting with a facelifted Nissan 370Z that had been accident-repaired and bought on the cheap, Harper set out to create something truly one-of-a-kind. His goal wasn’t just to restore the car—it was to reimagine it.

The Nissan Z has long been a favorite among tuners and customizers, thanks to its sleek proportions, rear-wheel-drive layout, and potent V6 engine. Harper saw an opportunity to elevate the Z’s aesthetic by borrowing design cues from the pre-facelift Aston Martin Vantage, a car known for its timeless elegance and aggressive front fascia2.

👀 A New Face: Where Z Meets Vantage

The most striking transformation is undoubtedly at the front. Harper replaced the stock 370Z headlights with compact, custom-built units that echo the Aston Martin’s sleek design. These headlights, still awaiting their high beams and indicators, nestle into widened fenders that give the car a more muscular stance.

The front bumper has been reworked with aerodynamic extensions, a modified central intake, and additional vents that enhance both form and function. The result is a nose that feels more refined, more aggressive, and unmistakably Aston-esque.

Interestingly, Harper also drew inspiration from the Mazda MX-5 ND, blending elements from multiple marques to create a front end that’s both familiar and fresh. The matte paint job and black 18-inch alloy wheels with yellow brake calipers complete the look, adding a touch of motorsport flair.

🔄 Mixing and Matching: Rear-End Reinvention

The rear of the car is just as inventive. Harper sourced a boot lip from a Mercedes-AMG C63 and a modified rear wing from a BMW M3—both crafted from carbon fiber. These elements, combined with aftermarket taillights connected by an LED strip, give the car a distinctive rear profile.

A rear diffuser and centrally-mounted dual tailpipes are still under development, and recent photos suggest Harper is experimenting with different spoiler designs. It’s clear that the build is a work in progress, but even in its current state, the car exudes a sense of purpose and personality.

⚙️ Under the Hood: Performance Potential

While the exterior has undergone a dramatic transformation, Harper hasn’t revealed much about performance upgrades. The factory-spec Nissan 370Z comes equipped with a 3.7-liter V6 engine producing 332 hp and 366 Nm of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic transmission.

Photos of the build do show a Nitrous bottle, hinting at potential track use and performance enhancements down the line. Whether Harper plans to upgrade the chassis or engine remains to be seen, but the foundation is certainly solid.

🎨 Why It Works: Design Harmony in Contrast

At first glance, the idea of merging a Nissan Z with an Aston Martin face might seem jarring. After all, these are cars from different continents, built with different philosophies. But Harper’s build proves that with thoughtful design and careful execution, such a fusion can work beautifully.

The Aston Martin-inspired front end adds a layer of sophistication to the Z’s sporty demeanor, while the rear modifications inject a dose of European flair. The result is a car that feels both exotic and grounded—a testament to the power of creative vision.

📸 The Road Ahead

As Harper continues to refine his build, the automotive world watches with curiosity. Will the final version include more performance upgrades? Will the rear design settle into a definitive form? Whatever the outcome, this project has already made waves for its boldness and originality.

In an era where factory designs often play it safe, custom builds like this remind us of the joy of automotive expression. Harper’s Nissan Z with an Aston Martin face isn’t just a car—it’s a statement. And it’s one that’s resonating with enthusiasts around the globe.