1973 Datsun 240Z Works Rally Replica

The Datsun 240Z, (latterly the 260Z and 280Z) was the first generation of 'Z' two-seat coupés produced by Nissan in Japan from 1969 to 1978. Its dramatic looks owed a considerable amount to a 1960's styling concept drawn by Count Albrecht Goertz for Datsun, presumably at a time when they were considering ways to break into the European sports car market.

The early cars were powered by a lusty 2.4 litre, straight six, overhead cam engine, developing around 150bhp resulting in a 0-60 time of 8 seconds, and a top speed of 125mph. A five-speed manual gearbox was standard and the car featured independent suspension all round with MacPherson struts at the front and Chapman links at the rear. Rack and pinion power steering and front disc brakes meant that the 240Z was a thoroughly modern package.

The car complies fully with 'MSA Stage Rally' regulations. The body shell has been reinforced with additional heavy-duty chassis legs, added gussets, and has been double seam-welded to ensure it's as strong as it can be.

Mostly steel, the bodywork is finished in the correct shade of Red with Matt Black and is enhanced by a 'Works' style GRP bonnet, tailgate and "drop' front bumper. The power train consists of a freshly rebuilt 2.9ltr engine producing approximately 240bhp, fitted with a 'Nismo' spec rally camshaft, a lightened flywheel, triple Weber 45DOCE carburetors on a Mangoletsi inlet manifold, and a Nismo exhaust manifold with a Tony Law competition exhaust. A 6mm Dural sump guard protects the engine and gearbox, and the fuel tank is protected by a 4mm version of the same.

All this power is transmitted to the back wheels through a heavy duty clutch, a close-ratio five-speed gearbox and an R200 4.3 ratio, plate-type limited slip differential.

Currently sitting on 6J 'Minilite' alloy wheels and Kumho gravel tyres, the running gear includes a quick-ratio 'Star Motorsport' steering rack, Bilstein adjustable MacPherson struts, and reinforced wishbones. Braking is handled by 4-pot alloy brake calipers all round, fitted with Mintex M1155 pads squeezing vented discs up front with solid discs at the rear. The brakes are connected via Aeroquip hoses to an adjustable bias bar and a hydraulic handbrake.

This potent machine is fully furnished in rally trim with 'Motordrive' rally seats, four-point 'Sabelt' harnesses, and a custom designed 'rally' dashboard fitted with a Brantz Tripmaster.

UK registered and presented with a recent MoT and current MSA Historic Vehicle Identity papers, this car is a superb example and perfect for both accomplished and novice rally drivers.

Built by one of the best preparers in the business and seldom used, it simply would not be possible to build a car to such a high specification for this price.