Description
This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The Iconic Sale at the NEC Classic Motor Show 2024 - Cars on Saturday the 9th of November, NEC, Birmingham, B40 1NT. The Datsun 240Z was unveiled to the press in October 1969 and made its public appearance a few days later at the Tokyo Motor Show. To say it was well-received would be an understatement with its stylish modernity, well set-out interior and torquey six-cylinder engine.
As had become apparent during its creation, the Datsun 240Z represented all the requirements of sporting drivers by fulfilling their desires for superb styling, power and safety whilst providing them with the most thrilling and enjoyable ride available in any car at the time. According to Classic and Sportscar, the 'Z' was "In a different technical league" whilst Road and Track Magazine noted "Datsun have reinvented the sports-car with the sleek, civilised, sexy and sporty 240Z".
The new car was powered by a lusty 2. 4-litre, straight-six, overhead cam engine developing around 150bhp, resulting in a 0-60 time of eight seconds and a top speed of 125mph. The well-spaced, 5-speed gear ratios made the most of the engine's torque whilst retaining the ability to achieve in excess of 30 mpg, a figure that put the 'Z' ahead of many of its contemporaries and on a par with Porsche 911s of the time. The car featured independent suspension all round, with MacPherson struts at the front and Chapman links at the rear. Rack and pinion steering and front disc brakes meant that the 240Z was a thoroughly modern package.
As time passed, the 240Z evolved into the 260Z and later the 280Z. However, it's the original 240Z that continues to captivate enthusiasts with its timeless elegance and minimalist design. The 240Z not only established Datsun (now Nissan) as a credible Japanese sports car brand in the early 1970s but also solidified its presence on the American automotive map. Today, the 240Z holds a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts and collectors alike, representing the epitome of the Japanese classic car.
Dating from late 1972, although first registered in 1973, the 240Z we present here has been subject to a sympathetic, photo-documented, bare-metal restoration by its long-term owner, retaining as many original parts as possible. It now presents in, what we believe is Grigio Silverstone, with a black leather and needle cord interior, an impressive engine bay and refurbished Wolfrace alloys. Our vendor states that "after twenty years of ownership that there are no gremlins anywhere, it is and has always been garaged, fully Waxoyled, matching numbers and a comprehensive history dating back to the 1970s".
Worthy of a space in any collection or enthusiasts hands, whether as a confidence-inspiring driver, or a simply stunning showpiece, this 240Z represents the perfect opportunity to own what is one of the finest examples we have seen for some time.
