Japanese manufacturers developed a reputation during the 1960s for creating solid and reliable cars featuring excellent build quality and impressive fuel consumption figures. However, companies like Datsun wished to push the envelope with cars providing motoring excitement. One of the products of this thinking was its Z-Car models. This 1971 240Z Series 1 is an example of that philosophy. It is a solid, clean, dry-climate classic that runs and drives well. It needs a new home, with the seller listing the Datsun here on eBay in Pacoima, California. Bidding has raced to $10,200 in a No Reserve auction. The listing is approaching its conclusion, so you may need to act fast to park this gem in your driveway.

The 240Z first appeared in North American showrooms in 1970, and many drew immediate comparisons with Jaguar’s legendary E-Type. This was understandable because both shared similar styling attributes and a six-cylinder powerplant under the hood. The 240Z received an update in mid-1971, bringing subtle styling changes. This car pre-dates the changes, making it a more desirable Series 1 machine. However, it has undergone a few changes that purists may choose to reverse to return the car to its former glory. The seller admits that the Green paint gracing its panels isn’t original. They state it originally wore Orange, and a check of the company’s color charts suggests it would have been a shade called New Sight Orange. It can be seen peaking through in a couple of places, making the idea of stripping the panels and returning it to its original form look pretty attractive. That would provide an opportunity to tackle the few minor panel bumps and marks, but the reassuring news is that life in a dry climate has left this Datusn rust-free. The trim is in acceptable condition for a driver-grade restoration, and there are no visible glass issues.

This Datsun’s interior is begging for love but is serviceable in its current form. New Sight Orange paint brought Black vinyl trim as a default, although White was available for a limited time in 1972. The seats are in good order, as is the desirable “quilted” vinyl that is often prone to physical damage. The wheel and door trims show deterioration, and the seller confirms the cover hides the typical collection of pad cracks. Addressing this defect could be one of the most expensive single items, depending on the new owner’s desire for originality. Reproduction pads retail for around $800, but a restored genuine replacement will lighten the new owner’s wallet by an eye-watering $2,000! The remaining plastic has survived remarkably well, and the carpet is new.

I have always considered Datsun’s L-Series engine range to be one of the unsung heroes of the motoring world. These OHC powerplants feature double valve springs and dual-row timing chains as standard, with many also scoring steel crankshafts. I have seen these engines clock over 300,000 miles with little more than routine maintenance. Their only weaknesses are valve stem seals that can become hard over time, and the timing chain can stretch and rattle with age. However, addressing those problems, should they occur, is easy and inexpensive. The L-Series in this car is the 2,393cc six that sends 151hp and 146 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. The company developed the 240Z as a genuine sports car with four-wheel independent suspension and highly effective power front disc brakes. The ¼-mile ET of 16.5 seconds isn’t spectacular, but these cars spring to life and offer a rewarding driving experience when pointed at a twisting ribbon of tarmac. The seller states that they recently replaced the master cylinders for the brakes and clutch and that this gem is in excellent mechanical health. It runs and drives perfectly, with no issues or vices.

This 1971 Datsun 240Z Series 1 won’t appeal to everyone, but no classic car does. However, it is ideal for enthusiasts seeking a vehicle that perfectly combines good looks with driving fun. The fact it is an early example enhances its desirability, which is confirmed by the thirty-six bids submitted at the time of writing. It is almost set to find a new home, but would you like to make it yours?