If you have never driven a Datsun 240Z, you have missed out on one of classic motoring’s great pleasures. While the 240Z doesn’t possess the outright performance of a muscle car, its suspension configuration endows the car with handling that rewards enthusiastic drivers. This 1971 Datsun is a one-owner vehicle that is in excellent condition. With 71,000 miles on the clock, it should offer many years of motoring enjoyment to its new owner. Located in La Habra Heights, California, you will find the 240Z listed for sale here on Craigslist. You could drive away in this gem by handing the seller $59,000. Barn Finder Pat L has a well-tuned classic radar, so thank you for spotting this one for us, Pat.
When considering Datsun’s “Zed” car range, I’ve always preferred the early examples of the 240Z. They offered the purest motoring experience, with their overall light weight providing excellent performance. The twin grilles below the rear window indicate that this is one of those early vehicles, and its condition is remarkable for its age. The car’s sole owner indicates that they treated it to a repaint in its original color around eighteen years ago. That shade allows us to place a more accurate build date on this classic because the company only offered it until August of 1971. It shines impressively, with no fading, significant flaws, or signs of UV exposure. The panels are as straight as an arrow, and the lack of visible rust is no surprise considering the Datsun’s current location. Although the owner emphasizes its rust-free status, I would still advise an in-person inspection. The floors, lower rear quarter panels, and the area around the rear hatch can be prone to rust. It is worth checking those areas to ensure that all is well. The trim and glass look excellent, and while the wheels are aftermarket additions, they suit the car’s character perfectly.
The 240Z drew its model name from its engine capacity, with its OHC six-cylinder engine having a capacity of 2.4-liters. That six inhaled deeply through a pair of twin Hitachi HJG 46W carburetors to produce 151hp. The owner indicates that while things look stock under the hood, he upgraded the drivetrain to an L28 engine and five-speed manual transmission. This undermines any potential claims of this being an original survivor, but it was a common upgrade due to the simplicity of the engine swap. Outright power was never the 240Z’s trump card because, in stock form, it took 16.5 seconds to cover the ¼ mile. The company designed the car with relatively large brakes for its size, and when combined with four-wheel independent suspension, it made the 240Z one of the best handling production cars of the 1970s. Few motoring experiences are more satisfying than pointing one of these classics at a twisting ribbon of road. They provide extraordinary grip levels and reward drivers who put in some effort behind the wheel. This Datsun has 71,000 miles on the clock, although that claim has little relevance considering the engine and transmission upgrades. It runs and drives like a new car and is begging for a new owner to slip behind the wheel to sample this Japanese beauty.
The Datsun’s interior makes a positive first impression that is undoubtedly helped by the owner installing new seat upholstery around fifteen years ago. These covers still present in as-new condition, while the remaining upholstered surfaces and plastic show no signs of wear or UV damage. The exception is the dash pad, which appears to have cracked in the usual spot on either side of the central gauge cluster. I would love a dollar for every one of these I’ve seen with this issue, and the bad news is that addressing the problem is not cheap. Reproduction pads are available, but they sell for around $800. If the next owner craves originality, some companies offer restoration services. However, these leave no change from $2,500, which is enough to make your eyes water. There are no obvious aftermarket additions, with items like the factory AM radio remaining intact.
During the late 1970s and early 1980s, it was possible to buy some tidy examples of the 240Z for modest figures. The car was recognized by many as a brilliant vehicle, but it took years to develop cult status. The asking price for this 240Z isn’t cheap, but given its overall condition, it isn’t unprecedented. They frequently change hands for more than $60,000, although higher figures are not unusual. With values climbing at an unrelenting rate, it may not be many years before they follow the legendary Jaguar E-Type into territory beyond the reach of the average enthusiast. My only qualm with this Datsun is the engine and transmission change. They will impact its potential value, but determining the extent isn’t easy to say. However, if you crave a classic Japanese sports car that offers a rewarding driving experience, this 240Z is worth a closer look.
The best Z cars are the early ones with twin carbs.
It looks like Adam and Pat L. teamed up for a nice hat trick today!
I had a 1971 Z with the 240Z emblem on the rear windshield pillar. As I remember, it’s manufacturing date was November, 1970? Adam, you may say they’re not muscle car performance vehicles but I can tell you at least one of them was able to run over 100mph. How much over? Umm, ….
The 1936 Buick Century was so named because it could achieve the century mark, 100 mph.
Nice car. The reference to the aftermarket wheels is of interest as the original steel wheels and nondescript hub caps did nothing to support the great design of the body. Over the years I’ve seen very few early Zs with factory wheels. We bought a set of American Libre wheels for ours before the car was even delivered.
neat car but the engine swap spoils it for me. therefore, the price is just silly.
I loved my 1971 240Z so much I traded it in on a Brand Spanking New Silver 280z – My CB handle was the “Silver Bullet” of course. Wish I still had one one them – paid $3,100 for the 71 in 1972, and paid $7200 for the 1976.
Bobhess is right about the stock wheel covers; they were UG-Leee! I wonder why so many Japanese cars of the 70s were that “pumpkin” body color. Did the paint manufacturer have an overstock sale?
My wife had a 71 Z . Nice car, but my 914-6 handled better and was faster after Ralph Meaney, 914 Guru work on it. RIP Ralph!
C2
240Z
Learn to surf.
I am more likely to learn to surf than to ever own either of these cars.
Unfortunately.
My 1972 Z was $3443 delivered to St. Joseph, MO. Waited exactly 9 months for it. I handed out cigars when it arrived…..
hmm
Far too good a car to be of value to MZE Roadsports.
This car is a survivor only because it’s still here. Been painted , wheels changed, engine / trans swap. Don’t get me wrong it’s fantastic to look at but not a true survivor. How do we know this wasn’t some rag pieced together years ago. I’ve done it.