1971 Datsun 240Z

This 1971 Datsun 240Z came from over 45-year ownership by a prior owner and was subject to a repaint over a largely rust-free, original body. An electronic PerTronix ignition system and an upgraded exhaust system have been added to the drivetrain, which is based around an L24 2.4-liter inline-six paired with a 4-speed manual transmission. Finished in New Sight Orange over a reupholstered black vinyl interior, this first-generation S30 240Z is now offered with an owner’s manual and a clear North Carolina title in the seller’s name.

Datsun’s first Z-car launched in 1969 on the S30 platform, and this example from two years later is considered a Series 1 based on design elements consistent with early models, including 240Z badging on the sail panels, a vertical rear defroster, and air vents on the rear hatch. This 240Z was subject to a respray in its original New Sight Orange in 2001 as part of a partial restoration at the time, and the resulting finish shows in good condition throughout although there is some cosmetic wear according to the seller. Brightwork includes chrome trim, a driver sideview mirror, bumpers with guards, badging, and window surrounds.

Machined alloy 14” wheels with color-keyed Z center caps are wrapped in Cornell 1000 tires with good tread life remaining. Suspension underpinnings up front are comprised of MacPherson struts with drag links, coil springs, and a sway bar. At the rear, handling is tasked by coil springs, Chapman struts, and telescopic dampeners. The braking system is power-assisted and features discs up front and drums in the rear.

The interior contains reupholstered black vinyl bucket seats which are color-matched to the door panels, dash, and replacement carpeting with floor mats. Some interior seals were replaced as part of the refurbishment, and the seller notes that the dash has two small cracks. Amenities include a wood-rimmed steering wheel with a Datsun-branded center hub, a factory AM sound system, and sound-deadening material in the rear cargo area.

Instrumentation is provided by full factory gauges with a 160-mph speedometer, an 8k-rpm tachometer, and gauges in the center stack for coolant temperature, oil pressure, voltage, and fuel level. The five-digit mechanical odometer reads 51k miles, although true mileage on the chassis is unknown.

The numbers-matching L24 2.4-liter single-overhead camshaft inline-six has received an upgraded PerTronix electronic ignition system and features an aluminum head as well as dual SU-style carburetors. The original factory rating for this powerplant was 151 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. The exhaust system has been replaced according to the seller, and manufacturing placards are present on the engine itself and the passenger side shock tower to provide legitimacy to the originality of the powertrain. Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a 4-speed manual transmission.

Photos showing the underside are available in the gallery.

The sale includes an owner’s manual.