1970 Datsun Fairlady Z432

Though the highly popular Datsun 240Z was targeted primarily at America, where it was enormously successful, Nissan produced a radically distinct version of their Fairlady Z strictly for its domestic market. Since their merger with Prince, Nissan had developed the former’s formidable S20 straight-six into a competition colossus, culminating with the launch of the indomitable twin-cam Skyline GT-R. It is this same race-derived engine that would be fitted into this rare and exceptional Z-car, along with other competition-oriented components, creating the ultimate production variant, the Z432.

Incredibly rare as only 420 units were produced, many of which have met their fates on the racing circuit or have been heavily modified beyond recognition over the years. As a result, it is extraordinary difficult to find any such example and harder still to find an authenticated and sympathetically restored car, even in Japan, let alone the literal handful that are known to have been imported elsewhere by enthusiasts.

Although its external appearance is unmistakably familiar, its heart - the GT-R drivetrain - lends this car a unique character, the high revving nature of the engine especially results in a supremely involving and highly entertaining performer. As with the Hakosuka GT-R, the Z432 is a legend at home and has a growing following amongst enthusiasts in the West. Despite its familiar looks, this limited production, high performance GT-R variant should never be confused with a 240Z - this is the 'Holy Grail' of all production Z-machines.

• Only 420 examples ever produced between 1969 and 1973 and 299 in 1969/1970, for the JDM only (so all RHD)
• The Z432 was almost twice the price of the base Z-car and got its name from the engine's four valves per cylinder, three carburettors and two camshafts
• 1,989cc DOHC 24-valve cross-flow alloy headed 'S20' inline six-cylinder unit with three triple dual-throat Mikuni-Solex 40PHH side-draft carburettors and transistorised ignition
• The Z432 also came with a close-ratio/heavy-duty 5-speed manual gearbox, a special exhaust system (tube headers and Fujitsubo dual pipes), magnesium wheels, independent (front) suspension with MacPherson struts, coil springs, telescopic dampers and an anti-roll bar; independent (rear) suspension with Chapman struts, lower wishbones, coil springs, telescopic dampers, and R192 limited-slip differential
• Some Z432 examples were used by the police in Japan

The car presented here is chassis #PS30-00326, supported by a Heritage Certificate/inspection by a Datsun (the company) specialist. It was finished in striking yellow paintwork when new and it remains so today, being an older restoration carried out in Japan before being imported into the UK in 2018, where it is now UK-registered. It has been in professional storage since but has recently had c.£7,000 spent on to it (with Z-car specialists) to get it ‘match-fit’ and set up correctly.

Unsurprisingly, there is some evidence of ‘track-prep’ – remnant fixing-points of roll-cage and the rear arches are perhaps slightly wider than a standard Z432, and that it's magnesium wheels have been replaced at some point.

The Datsun Fairlady Z432 stands tall as an automotive legend. Its remarkable engine, exceptional performance, limited production numbers, and timeless design elevate it to a realm of distinction. From the moment it graced the roads, the Z432 captured the hearts of those fortunate enough to experience its power and grace. Today, it remains a testament to Nissan’s engineering prowess and an enduring symbol of automotive excellence. This particular car is very sensibly guided, given the rarity and desirability of the model - some examples selling in recent times, in the US, for $170,500 and $253,000 respectively -  going to show that a Z432 belongs at the pinnacle of collectability when in comes to Japanese sportscars.

Professional images and video to follow soon.