With 100% certainty it is base coat, with NO pearl coat, only clear coat. No PEARL is added (because it is much more expensive, I am guessing it was a really dumb way to save a few $), thus the absolutely stupid looking underhood paint on every pearl color Z, especially yellow. It makes every pearl Z look as cheap as a junkyard repaint when you pop the hood...stupid move Nissan. If you can't tell this is my biggest pet peeve about the 300ZX...