1971 Datsun 240Z

The Datsun 240Z was the first sports car from the Pacific Rim that achieved huge international success, especially in the USA. And Nissan's formula for sales success with this car was simple: imitate the British sports car such as the MGC and Triumph GT6, by accentuating their good points and eliminating the legions of faults.The 240Z's looks were spot on, thanks to styling influenced by a Count Albrecht Goertz concept developed for Datsun in the early 1960's. Performance from its sporty 2.4-litre straight six power unit, was more than ample. Being a Datsun, reliability was a given, but the agile (if tail-happy) handling was a pleasant surprise. During its five year run, more than 150,000 were produced, but survivors are now seriously appreciating in value. Rust has been its main enemy, which is why this particular car should be given serious consideration.

Offered today is a 240Z for the serious collector or enthusiast, which is in fantastic, unmolested, rust free, original condition. It has had just one owner from new in 1971 until it was recently imported to UK from Southern USA. Unused over winter and always garaged, the body is in great original shape. This must be one of the very few Datsun 240Z cars left remaining anywhere in the world still wearing it's original factory paint in code 905 Monte Carlo Red. The car has a great overall feel and patina that restored cars can never quite replicate.

Whilst the condition of the car speaks for itself, the odometer has just turned 56,000 miles and is believed to be the correct mileage as stated by the sole owner from new in the United States. Unfortunately, he has not kept the receipts and paperwork from earlier years. The 6 cylinder L24 series engine, which has recently been rebuilt by the respected Z specialists "Radatz Motorsports" Georgia, runs on its original twin Hitachi SU carbs, has great oil pressure and sounds really wonderful pulling strongly through all the gears. The wheels are fitted with the rare desirable early D hubcaps and shod with nearly new Michelin classic profile tyres all round.

Having just passed its first UK MOT (expiry 04/07/2015) with flying colours, prior to obtaining it's first UK correct period registration at the DVLA and with import duties paid, this 1970's icon is ready to experience the country roads of the Isle of Blighty with a new owner.