A classic car’s odometer reading sometimes isn’t a consideration, particularly if it has received the TLC it richly deserves. This 1973 Datsun 240Z is a perfect example of that approach. It has 148,544 miles on the clock, but the fact that it has been meticulously maintained has left its bulletproof drivetrain in excellent health. It isn’t perfect, but is a tidy driver that someone can enjoy immediately. The seller has listed this 240Z here on eBay in Dickson, Tennessee. They set their BIN at $14,500 OBO and judging by the view and Watch List tallies, people seem to like what they see.

Datsun developed a reputation for producing affordable and economical subcompacts during the 1960s, with build quality as one of the company’s key focus points. However, like other manufacturers from the region, it harbored aspirations to move more upmarket. The sports car sector was a prime candidate to boost international sales, with the 240Z hitting North American shores for the 1970 model year. It remained on sale until 1973, with our feature car as a final-year example. The first owner ordered it in Code 905 Red, and with no mention of repairs or restoration, it could be a genuine survivor. The exterior holds a pleasant shine, and with no significant panel imperfections, this gem makes a positive first impression. Rust can be a bugbear with these vehicles, with the floors, lower rear quarter panels, and the rear hatch opening all prone to problems. However, I can spot no evidence of issues that might cause concern. The trim is in good condition, the glass is clear, and this Datsun retains its original hubcaps.

It is often said that cockroaches are one of the few things that could survive a nuclear blast, and I would place Datsun’s L-Series engine range in that category. These aren’t typically the most powerful motors on the planet, but they hold a well-deserved reputation for longevity. As the model designation suggests, this car’s engine bay houses the 2.4-liter six-cylinder version that sends 151hp and 146 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. Datsun also offered a three-speed automatic, but these cars lose their driving appeal when lumbered with a self-shifter. Outright performance was less of a consideration than creating an engaging motoring experience. Therefore, the four-wheel independent suspension and excellent brakes for a car of this size make the 240Z a blast to drive on twisting roads. The seller states that this Datsun has 148,544 miles on the clock, which isn’t a huge amount for this drivetrain combination. They claim that it has been meticulously maintained, meaning that it should offer the buyer years of trouble-free motoring.

If this 240Z has a weakness, that dubious honor could fall to its interior. It is clean and serviceable, but the first thing I noticed was the cracked dash above the center gauge cluster. If I had a dollar for every one of these that I have seen, I could probably afford to buy this car! Reproductions are readily available, but at over $800, they aren’t cheap. The seats appear to sport replacement seatcovers in non-original cloth and vinyl. Otherwise, it is clean, free from other major problems, and could be used in its current form while the buyer contemplates whether to undertake any changes.

Cars like this 1973 Datsun 240Z demonstrated to the world that Japanese manufacturers could produce more than inexpensive econoboxes. These classics were a sales success when new, and they remain desirable today. The seller’s BIN seems realistic, particularly if an in-person inspection confirms that it is rust-free. With over one hundred people placing it on their Watch list and nearly 250 views in the past day, I won’t be surprised if it finds a new home fairly easily. Will you?