The modern Nissan Z has earned praise for blending retro-inspired styling with contemporary performance, but one feature that longtime fans hoped to see never made it into production—a T-Top roof. Now, an automotive enthusiast is taking matters into his own hands by building a custom Nissan Z T-Top conversion that pays tribute to the brand’s iconic sports car heritage.
The project is being led by Nick Scherr, better known in enthusiast circles as NISMO Nick, who recently revealed the build through social media. Rather than creating a heavily modified performance machine, Scherr describes the project as a nostalgic tribute designed to capture the spirit of classic Nissan Z models.
Bringing Back an Iconic Sports Car Feature
T-Tops first appeared in the automotive world during the 1950s before becoming especially popular throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Unlike a traditional convertible, a T-Top design features removable roof panels separated by a central structural bar, allowing drivers to enjoy open-air motoring while maintaining much of the vehicle’s original roof structure.
Several generations of Nissan’s Z sports cars featured T-Top configurations, making them a memorable part of the model’s history. However, the latest generation Nissan Z arrived without such an option, and there have been no indications from Nissan that a factory-built T-Top version is under consideration.
As a result, Scherr’s project may become the closest thing enthusiasts get to a modern Nissan Z T-Top.
More Than a Modification
According to Scherr, the goal is not simply to cut the roof off the vehicle. Instead, he aims to create a conversion that feels as if it could have come directly from a manufacturer.
That ambition brings significant engineering challenges.
Among the key issues being addressed are:
- Maintaining structural integrity
- Ensuring weather-resistant sealing
- Preventing water leaks
- Reducing wind noise
- Preserving cabin refinement
- Integrating roof panels securely
A major focus of the project is developing effective seals around critical areas including:
- Windshield frame
- Side windows
- Rear roof section
- Center T-bar connection points
Creating a watertight and durable design is essential if the conversion is to deliver the quality and usability expected from a production-level vehicle.
Safety Remains a Key Consideration
Beyond weather protection and structural strength, the project also requires careful attention to safety systems.
Modern vehicles incorporate numerous technologies within the roof structure, including side-curtain airbags and impact protection systems. Modifying the roof can affect how these safety components function.
Although the vehicle is a one-off build rather than a mass-produced model, Scherr is reportedly working to ensure that the modified Z remains safe and practical for road use.
Achieving this balance between nostalgia, engineering and safety represents one of the most complex aspects of the conversion.
A History of Ambitious Nissan Projects
This is not Scherr’s first unconventional Nissan build.
Previously, he created the Sentra SE-RS, a custom turbocharged six-speed sedan inspired by performance-oriented Nissan models that never reached production.
His projects often explore alternate versions of Nissan vehicles that enthusiasts wished had existed, combining factory-inspired design with extensive custom engineering.
The Nissan Z T-Top continues that philosophy by bringing back a feature strongly associated with the brand’s sports car legacy.
The Beginning of an “Open Air Collection”
The Nissan Z project is reportedly only the first chapter in a larger vision.
Scherr plans to create what he calls an Open Air Collection, a series of unique Nissan-based vehicles celebrating some of the company’s most unusual products and concepts.
Among the proposed projects are:
Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet Revival
The Murano CrossCabriolet remains one of the most distinctive vehicles Nissan has ever produced. Combining SUV practicality with convertible styling, it developed a cult following despite its unconventional appearance.
A heavily customized version is reportedly part of Scherr’s future plans.
Nissan Juke Convertible Concept
The enthusiast also intends to build a one-off convertible version of the Nissan Juke.
Although Nissan never sold a production Juke convertible in most markets, the crossover’s unconventional design has long inspired enthusiasts to imagine alternative body styles.
A roofless Juke would undoubtedly become one of the most attention-grabbing vehicles on the road.
Why T-Tops Still Matter
While retractable hardtops and modern convertible systems have become more advanced, T-Tops continue to hold a special place among enthusiasts.
Their appeal comes from offering:
- Open-air driving experience
- Distinctive styling
- Greater body rigidity than many convertibles
- Strong connection to classic sports cars
For many enthusiasts, T-Tops represent a defining era of automotive design that remains difficult to replicate with modern vehicle architectures.
Outlook
Nissan has shown no signs of bringing a factory-built T-Top version of the current Z to market. However, projects like this demonstrate the passion that still surrounds the legendary sports car.
If successful, NISMO Nick’s Nissan Z T-Top could become one of the most talked-about custom Nissan builds in recent years, combining modern performance with a feature that helped define generations of Z cars.
For enthusiasts who have long wanted to see a T-Top return to the Nissan Z lineup, this one-off creation may offer a glimpse of what could have been.
