1971 DATSUN 240Z

This 1971 Datsun 240Z is a wonderful example of the breakthrough Japanese sports car, presented in fantastic condition throughout following an extensive yet sympathetic bare-metal restoration. Under the bonnet is the car’s original 2.4-litre inline-six, which sends around 150bhp to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. The odometer displays 59,521 miles; however, this is not warranted.

Introduced in late 1969, the 240Z (or Fairlady Z in Japan) is widely regarded as a game-changing model which saw Nissan/Datsun’s first highly successful sports car bring reliability as well as better performance and sleeker design to the market, in contrast to the European car rivals of the day 

Built in 1971, this left-hand drive all matching numbers US-market example has had only two keepers from new, and was imported from Texas by the seller five years ago. On its arrival, it was subjected to a complete restoration, with the seller striving to use as many original parts as possible during the process. In June this year, it will celebrate its 50th birthday.

Today, the bodywork is in excellent condition, with no corrosion evident. During its restoration, the floors, sills and wheel arches were rebuilt. Having been fully resprayed in the original specification Datsun code 918 Orange, the paintwork presents particularly well, and has a smooth and glossy appearance all around the car. The brightwork – including the bumpers, window trims and door handles – is in very good order, and the light lenses are free of any chips or cracks. This 240Z rides on a set of 14-inch Shelby ‘Slot Mag’ alloy wheels, which are pristine. 

Inside, the cabin has been completely retrimmed using a combination of new materials and original parts. Both of the seats have been re-upholstered by Aldridge Trimming in OEM black vinyl, with pleated, textured centre sections and the correct metal breather vents on their lower backrests. In line with the car’s limited use since its restoration, the seats are unmarked, and the original dashboard is similarly smart.

Ahead, the restored wood-effect steering wheel and matching wooden gear knob are also in very good order, while the gauges and ventilation controls have a charming, time-earned patina. Clad in the same vinyl as the seats, the door cards are in excellent condition, though the upholstery on the driver’s-side item is sagging slightly. All of the switchgear is reported to work without fault, and there are no warning lights displayed on the dashboard.

This classic Japanese sports car’s most recent routine maintenance was carried out in February 2021 at an indicated 59,501 miles by ACE Classic Restorations, who changed the fluids and filters. Prior to this, all of the car’s service items were addressed during its restoration, including the water pump, hoses, seals, spark plugs, leads, filters, gaskets and belts.

While it is exempt due to its age, this Datsun’s last MOT test was conducted on 3 September 2019 at an indicated 59,440 miles, which resulted in a clean pass without a single advisory. The seller will also have a new MOT test carried out prior to the car’s handover to its next owner. All four wheels are fitted with Vredestein Sprint Classic tyres, which are brand new and unworn. The car will be accompanied by its tool kit and original handbook.

This Datsun 240Z is a stylish and engaging classic Japanese sports car, which is presented in superb condition following a full restoration. This example is about to mark its 50th birthday and will make a great addition to any collection; though it will be best enjoyed from behind the wheel, where its next owner can relish in its agile handling and characterful six-cylinder engine. 

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All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.