Yutaka Katayama, 'father Of The Z' Nissan Sports Car, Dies At 105

[Mr Camouflage]

A sad day for Z fans everywhere.

 

http://www.wsj.com/articles/nissans-father-of-the-z-dies-aged-105-1424510374

 

 

TOKYO— Yutaka Katayama, a former president of Nissan Motor Co.’s U.S. unit who turned the Z sports car into a powerful global brand in the 1970s, has died. He was 105.

 

Known as the “father of the Z,” Mr. Katayama won international respect for the Datsun Z as an affordable sports car when Japan-made products were synonymous with slipshod quality.

 

Mr. Katayama, who died Thursday, retired from Nissan in 1977.

 

Carlos Ghosn , who has led a turnaround at the Japanese auto maker under an alliance with Renault SA of France, resurrected Mr. Katayama’s legendary status at Nissan and brought back the Z.

 

Inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame in both the U.S. and Japan, Mr. Katayama is revered by Z fan clubs around the world.

 

[240260280z]

It is a sad day. Prayers to Mr. K.

[Travel'n Man]

What a legacy he has left for all of us to enjoy. True success in life's accomplishments.

[Sean240Z]

Definitely a sad day.

[Zup]

Sad yes---but I will remember and celebrate his legacy every time I turn the key.

[HaZmatt]

R.I.P Mr.K

[S30Driver]

Sad news ... and what Zup said.

[sblake01]

I met him at the Classic Datsun Show at Doheny State Beach in 1999 and ran into him at various other events over the years.  He will be missed.

[rcb280z]

Sad day for sure. R.I.P. Mr. K. Will remember you every time I look at my Z.

[zKars]

I'm sad, but so very very thankful for the happiness his life's accomplishments have brought to the lives of so many and how that will continue for a very long time. Rest in Peace Mr K, and thanks for my most marvelous little Z....

[280~Master]

RIP Sir, we shall keep your legend alive for years to come.

[Patcon]

What a great full life. Designing great cars, 105 years old, just great...

C