The Datsun 240Z has been one of the star performers in the classic market over the past decade, with original and pristine examples highly sought by enthusiasts. This 1973 model needs plenty of TLC, but that hasn’t dampened interest. It spent years in storage and is one of a selection of cars needing a new home to settle an estate. The seller’s decision to list the Datusn with No Reserve means it is days away from heading off for a second chance at life.
Datsun always claimed that the Jaguar E-Type had no influence on the design of the 240Z, but if you are like me, you will find that line hard to swallow. The long hood, rear hatch, and two-seat configuration are all hallmarks of the British classic. Since imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, I remain quite comfortable with the design similarities. The seller has listed this 240Z to settle an estate, indicating it has spent years in dry storage. It isn’t the first classic we have seen from this source, suggesting the deceased owner had an eclectic motoring taste. It requires total restoration, with the faded and marked Code 112 Yellow paint the least of its shortcomings. The front fenders sport a couple of repairable dents, but it is the visible lower extremity rust that causes concern. The seller supplies no information on the floors, which are vulnerable to problems. However, the lack of significant rust in the rear hatch opening is encouraging. I think the winning bidder will need to employ a nut-and-bolt approach to this restoration, but the results should justify the effort and expense.
Rusting steel isn’t the 240Z’s only weakness, because interior trim and plastic are also prone to deterioration. This car hasn’t escaped the typical cracked dashpad, although the photos don’t reveal how severe the problem is. Replacement pads are readily available, but at $800, it might be worth investigating a DIY restoration with a product like Polyvance as an affordable alternative. The driver’s seatcover has split, meaning a replacement pair needs to go on the shopping list. It is a relief to discover that the diamond-pattern vinyl on the transmission tunnel is in good order. This is made from genuine “unobtainium,” and some owners have had to call on skilled upholsterers to recreate vinyl that closely matches the original. The 240Z doesn’t feature such luxuries as a throbbing stereo or power windows, but the factory air conditioning will be welcomed by those living in warm climates.
I’ve always considered the Datsun L-Series engine range one of the most underappreciated Japanese powerplants. I have wielded spanners on many different versions during my life, and have been impressed by how robust these engines are. They don’t produce the same level of power and torque of an equivalent twin-cam, but they will comfortably clock healthy six-digit odometer readings with nothing beyond routine maintenance. The 240Z, as the name suggests, features the 2.4-liter six-cylinder version that sent 151hp and 146 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission when the car rolled off the showroom floor. Datsun focused on a rewarding driving experience, equipping the car with four-wheel independent suspension. The seller indicates that this old girl has been meticulously maintained, but hasn’t seen regular action for years. Therefore, a thorough inspection, a comprehensive service, and a tune-up will be the first steps to finding its rightful place on our roads.
It is sometimes challenging to gauge the desirability of certain classics, but this 1973 Datsun 240Z leaves no doubts. It has received twenty-three bids since the seller listed it here on eBay in Cincinnati, Ohio. Throw in over 500 views during the past twenty-four hours and a Watch List total of ninety-two, and it is clear to see that this little Japanese sports car has generated interest. Bidding has pushed the price to $4,050, and with No Reserve to hinder progress, it is about a week away from finding a new home. I hope someone returns this classic to its former glory and rightful place on the road. It deserves nothing less.
Always loved the Zed’s (correct pronunciation), (Queens English, don’t argue).
The 240, in my opinion was the best Zed ever made.
Loved it had a bar on the passengers side footwell, for the passenger to place his feet firmly against it, you were left in no doubt that this car was meant to be thrashed (I mean have fun, lol).
Not a fan of the colour of this one, but hey, 240 Zed’s are hard to come by.
what a nice long term project this can be
Paint is cheap, relatively speaking. The rust is the challenge.
Big fan of these cars myself but always thought the Brits made a mess of the English language. Real problem areas are the rocker boxes. Bare metal on the inside and all sorts of overlapping panels to let moisture in. Aussie Dave called it…lots of fun. Good looks and good power.
Rust bucket, crap carbs. Spend more now and a lot less in the end.