For Sale at Auction: 1971 Datsun 240Z in Carmel, California

Chassis No. HLS30-32598

In 1969, urged by Nissan's North American President Yutaka Katayama, Nissan returned to the performance car market with the Datsun 240Z, debuting at the Tokyo Motor Show. Priced at $3,626 in the U.S.-less than half the cost of a comparable Porsche 911-it offered a thrilling driving experience with a 2.4-liter, 150 horsepower engine, independent suspension, and front disc brakes. Its sleek design and affordability made it a hit, especially as American muscle cars struggled with emissions regulations, helping to change perceptions of Japanese cars in the U.S. market.

This 1971 Datsun 240Z has been tastefully enhanced with an arsenal of upgrades and refurbishments under both past and current ownership, taking advantage of the platform's celebrated modularity and aftermarket support that has made the Z car addictively customizable since its inception.

Under previous ownership, the car was completely stripped and refinished in its factory correct Silver (901). Its black vinyl interior was fitted with contrasting Porsche Pepita seat inserts. The 240Z's L24 engine was fully rebuilt and fitted with a five-speed manual transmission sourced from a Datsun 280ZX. Photos on file show that the suspension was rebuilt, powder coated, and fitted with Energy Suspension bushings and Vogtland lowering springs. The brakes were also refreshed, and the hydraulics were fitted with new bushings. Finally, 16-inch Konig Rewind wheels were installed to complete the 240Z's new OEM-plus theme.

The car was acquired by the consignor in October 2017, joining a renowned collection in Monterey, California, and emerging as one of the owner's most cherished cars in their stable. The owner has further enhanced the 240Z with a Pierce intake manifold and triple Weber DCOE 40 side draft carburetors tuned by "Weber Whisperer" Mike Pierce. Pierce reportedly used this example to develop his own emulsion tubes that eliminated off-idle stumble-a known intricacy of 240Zs equipped with triple carburetors.

In preparation for the sale, the car has also received a valve adjustment as well as a replacement of its motor, transmission, and differential fluids. The consignor notes that the radio and horn are inoperable.

Its well-documented restorative work and arsenal of enhancements ensure that this 1971 Datsun 240Z is equally loyal and rewarding on a memorable vintage touring event or simply on a relaxing Sunday drive down a favorite winding road, offering the classic Z-car experience that Datsun aficionados cannot recommend enough.