This 1971 Datsun 240Z appears to be in respectable, unrestored condition with no obvious modifications from stock. The paintwork is glossy, it retains the oftentimes missing OEM hubcaps, and the bumpers still shine nicely. The 240Z is described as being “all original” and “rust-free”, and there’s certainly nothing in the photos that would convince me otherwise. The Datsun is equipped with an automatic transmission, which may have something to do with how it’s survived to such a high level. Find it here on craigslist in West Orlando, FL for $20,000.

The automatic transmission is often the bane of enthusiast existence. Some of the reasons are obvious, like the decrease in raw performance which is a legitimate complaint with an older slushbox that doesn’t have any of the F1-inspired logic of today’s autoboxes. There’s also the potential for additional maintenance costs, as replacing a clutch is far cheaper than rebuilding an automatic, particularly a vintage one that may be loaded with obsolete parts. But you have to admit, it’s not surprising to see one in a survivor car like this 240Z, and it lends support to the notion that automatics just aren’t as often to be driven hard and put away wet when found in a sports car. The interior of this car is largely excellent, barring the tear in the driver’s seat upholstery.

The familiar inline-six that resides in the engine bay is clean with no evidence of oil leaks or poorly-executed modifications. The seller reports that it “runs great” and while it has a few needs, nothing major will be required to take it to the next level. He doesn’t specify what the needs are, but there’s nothing visible in the photos that would concern me too much. The wonderful thing about vintage Z cars is that if they have been loved, they are generally pretty robust cars that don’t come with excessive maintenance budgets. Buy a rusty one, however, and that all changes.

The muffler is an interesting design, and while part of me recalls seeing this stacked-tip configuration in the past, I can’t recall if it’s stock. It’s certainly period-correct if nothing else. The bodywork looks good from every angle, and as the vents in the rear hatch show us, this is indeed a desirable Series 1 car. With that in mind, the asking price is actually quite reasonable given how much this car would be worth if it had three pedals. I’m not sure what a manual conversion would cost on a vintage Z car, but it may be worth looking into if you can get this one home for $20,000 or less. Thanks to Barn Finds reader Patrick S. for the find.