1973 Datsun 240Z 2.8-litre Manual (Nissan Fairlady Z / S30)
129
Winning bid
€36,250
1973 Datsun 240Z 2.8-litre Manual (Nissan Fairlady Z / S30)
Photos provided by the seller
Highlights
Extensively restored
Some choice upgrades
Triple Webers
US “dry State” car
Manual transmission
Will be provided with a fresh Greek MoT
The Appeal
In a list of the greatest cars to come out of Japan, the 240Z would be very high on that list indeed. Beautifully styled, low weight, well built and fitted with a potent 2.8-litre straight-six drivetrain, it’s easy to see why it was such a success. It proved especially popular in the United States, which is precisely where this example came from.
Finished in stunning orange paintwork, this 240Z was imported to Greece from Nevada in 2007 and has undergone extensive restoration work. Cosmetically kept in mostly factory specification, only a few mechanical upgrades have been made to make the car more drivable and responsive on modern roads. Presented in overall excellent condition, this is one lady that is very fair indeed…
Finished in a handsome combination of black vinyl and velour, the interior wears its sporting intent clearly. The seats are both in very good order, with no sagging, tearing or significant wear apparent.
Similarly, the vinyl door cards present very nicely, with no damage we could see. The vendor tells us the dash had some cracks, but that it has been professionally recovered in factory-correct black vinyl. In various places about the cabin, the black vinyl trim is stamped with an embossed diamond design, which is original and really does elevate the feel of the space.
Black carpets are fitted throughout the cabin and boot and look to be in nice condition, with no staining or threading we could discern. These are complemented with a neat set of 240Z branded rubber floor mats.
Unlike some 70s sports cars, the 240Z isn’t draped in wood and chrome internally, which helps maintain the sporty feel and makes the car feel more modern. There are some nice design touches though, including the thin, wood-rimmed steering wheel and wooden gear knob. They add a lovely touch of class while never looking “old fashioned”.
All of the switchgear and instrumentation looks to be in fine fettle, with a little wear showing in places, but much less than you’d expect in a vehicle that is now 50 years old. With the vendor reporting no faults at all, it seems that everything works just as it should.
The boot space is quite generous in a 240Z. It features a couple of sturdy luggage straps and, under the carpet, a full size steel spare wheel. We noted that the boot floor under the carpet looks very clean and solid, with no evidence of corrosion or damage repair.
As part of the restoration process, the car was resprayed in this brilliant shade of orange, which is both period correct and suits the car perfectly. Add to that the new brightwork that has been installed and the car really makes an impact visually. The paint is a few years old now, so a few minor marks and chips should be expected, but overall it’s in very fine condition and wear a dep shine.
The body panels all look to be straight, clean and undamaged, with neat panel gaps. We couldn’t identify any notable damage or corrosion to the body. No trim or badging is missing as far as we can tell, and all the external elements shop very well indeed, with the glass and light lenses being clear and bright too. We note that all of the door and window rubbers have been replaced too, meaning the cabin should be nice and dry, as well as quiet when on the move.
In a move we heartily approve of, the vendor has fitted a set of Compomotive 8x15” eight-spoke alloy wheels. They not only offer more traction with their wider stance, but they are also period correct in their styling too. All four of the wheels present in excellent condition and are shod in a matched set of Bridgestone tyres.
Underneath looks clean and straight, with no significant corrosion to mention, straight undamaged sills and drivetrain components that look clean and well maintained.f11998976.jpg1.5 MB
The Mechanics
2,753cc naturally aspirated inline-six (L28)
Four-speed manual transmission
Triple Webers
Rear disc brake conversion
Pertronix ignition
Benefitting from the larger capacity 2.8-litre engine, this handsome sports coupé pushes all its power to the rear wheels through a manual transmission, offering a truly tactile driving experience. That engine bay looks superb, having been detailed in 2022. There are no signs of leaks or other issues we could identify.
This is enhanced as the vendor has fitted triple Weber 45 double-barrel carburetors in place of the standard US-spec items, which strangle the engine somewhat. Not only does this liberate a few horses, but we can confirm after hearing it that it also sounds absolutely superb.
Also installed is a new exhaust, in the correct vertical double-stack design, as well as modern Pertronix ignition and a conversion to discs at the rear, which is a wise upgrade. The vendor tells us the car will also come with upgraded 22mm anti-roll bars and a full set of Kayaba dampers which they have purchased but not yet fitted.
In our opinion the finest classic sports car to come out of Japan, this 240Z is an excellent example of the breed.
Finished in a great colour with some choice upgrades and in overall superb condition, this delightful machine simply must be considered.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. Car & Classic may refer a shipping company that also deals with import/export paperwork. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.
