Nissan released the Datsun 280Z model for the U.S. market in 1975. To comply with US federal safety laws, Nissan fitted the car with an impact-absorbing bumper. The cars also did not get a full-size spare tire and instead had a "space saver" spare and a larger fuel tank. The cars came with an optional 5-speed manual transmission, 4-speed manual and an option for a 3-speed automatic.