This 1973 Datsun 240Z features a clean-presented, subtly-upgraded body and its original matching-numbers engine. It is powered by a naturally-aspirated 2.4-litre six-cylinder engine which sent 113kW/198Nm to the rear wheels when new. This example features a five-speed manual transmission. It currently shows 81,921 miles on its odometer. Through the 1960s Nissan wished to build a Japanese rival to the European sports cars which were incredibly popular for the time. Aimingg directly for MGs, the Jaguar E-Type, and Alfa Romeos of the era, Nissan spent much of the 60s creating various concepts and design studies in retaliation. The Datsun 240Z (also known as the Nissan S30, Nissan Fairlady Z, and simply Nissan Z) was the fruition of Nissan’s efforts.

It showed great promise with its sleek styling, modern engineering, relative low price, and impressive performance. It specifically broadened people’s horizons to realise that Japanese cars were much more than boring “white goods”, while a growing dealer network ensured customers could acquire and service their cars easily. In Australia the Z was only available as the 240Z. Today, the Nissan Z is one of the most successful sports car lines ever produced. Wearing a tidy silver specification on the outside and a black vinyl-upholstered interior, this 240Z’s specification is underlined by subtle visual and mechanical upgrades. Carbon-fibre overfenders can be seen around the wheel wells and the front bumper trim is finished in carbon. The parts were manufactured by Topstage Composites.

Other mods include Koni shocks with King springs, Whiteline sway bar, custom fabricated exhaust, and electronic fuel injection. Elements of the car such as the bonnet and headlight surrounds are remade in fibre-reinforced plastic. The car rides on a set of 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in mismatch Federal/Pirelli tyres. This car was manufactured in Japan, Australian-delivered, and complied in May 1973. The current owner purchased the vehicle from Toowoomba, QLD in 2011 and drove it daily until COVID hit in 2020. Gearbox and suspension work was completed by ex-Mugen Honda mechanic Grant Heywood and the car has been serviced at AJ Car Care in Clayton, VIC. The latter also worked on a reconditioned head, head gasket change, sump gasket replacement, and the EFI installation.

The seller notes the vehicle drives and idles nicely. Having been resprayed by SL Customs, this car’s paintwork shows in decent condition for its age. This outfit also performed some rust repairs, though some oxidation seems to be cropping up again in areas. Some paint cracking can be seen around window edging and on the chrome trim. Carbon elements appear in fine condition. Some light curb rash is observed around the wheel rim while the tyres show a good level of tread remaining. This car’s interior shows in fine order throughout.

Fabric seat inserts show without obvious staining or tears, while the vinyl seat outers appear to be in good condition. Some deterioration is identified around the car’s trimmings, though this should be considered commensurate with age. All gauges and switchgear appears to be in decent condition. The vehicle also has functioning air conditioning, installed by the previous owner. An important security modification by the previous owner will only be disclosed to new owner. As per Trading Garage’s Terms and Conditions, although Trading Garage have completed the following checks, bidders must satisfy themselves to the accuracy of the description and do any research, they feel necessary before bidding. All listings are sold in Australian dollars.

This vehicle is currently registered in VIC until 24/3/24. There is no security interests registered on the PPSR against the serial number and it is not recorded as written off or stolen.