The Datsun brand was founded as part of Nissan, with production beginning in 1931. From 1958 to 1986, all Nissan export vehicles were labeled Datsun models. The famous 1973 Datsun 240Z was included in that range.

It is famous for being one of the smoothest and most enjoyable Datsun models in the lineup. To this day, it's still considered one of the greatest sports cars to ever come out of Japan. Not only that, but it was also a great sports car for its cost. There wasn't much else around at the time that could top its performance for such a decent price tag.

There's plenty of reasons to love the Datsun 240Z, from its racing heritage to its smooth performance and value for money.

Let's take a closer look at the 1973 Datsun 240Z and how much it costs today.

RELATED: 10 Reasons Why We Love The Datsun 240Z

Here's What A 1973 Datsun 240Z Costs Nowadays

1973 Datsun 240Z
Via: Flickr

Today, the 1973 Datsun 240Z might not be as affordable as it once was. In their heyday, Datsun models were known to be incredibly affordable in comparison to its rivals. Now with the 240Z being such a classic, it's seen a spike in price.

If you can find a good condition one with average mileage, you would likely be looking to pay around the $30,000 to $40,000 mark. If you want to find one that's a little more affordable, like back in its heyday, then you will probably need to do some work on it. Nonetheless, there are still a lot knocking around the market that are of fair quality with the prospect available to amp them up and make them look new again.

In our opinion, the 1973 Datsun 240Z is quite a bargain in this day and age. It's almost half a century old, and it stands out as being one of the best from the brand. To find one for around $30,000 in good condition is a pretty fair deal for such an iconic sports car.

The 1973 Datsun 240Z Was A Fast Ride For Its Time

Blue 1973 Datsun 240Z
Via: Wikimedia

At the time of the 240Z' release, Nissans that were exported were all under the brand name Datsun, hence its name. Otherwise, we could have been discussing the Nissan 240Z right now.

Regardless, the 1973 Datsun 240Z is a great-looking high-performance sports car that, at the time of its release, didn't cost a whole lot in comparison to its rivals. It featured an inline 2.4-liter petrol L24 engine that produces a maximum top speed of 125 mph.

Although that doesn't match the expectations for sports cars in the 2020s, it certainly did in those days. The 240Z also produced an impressive 151 hp, which exceeded its rival at the time, the Porsche 911. In comparison to a Porsche, Datsun models were considerably cheaper. Thus, it made it a great option for those looking for a powerful sports car on a tight budget.

For safety and convenience, the 1973 Datsun 240Z features an easy-to-handle suspension and chassis as well as high-performance front and rear brakes. Thus, if someone did want to zoom this beauty around a track, they'd in a safe ride to do so.

RELATED: Watch This LS7-Swapped Datsun 240Z Shred An Autocross Course

It Offered Brilliant Performance

1973 Datsun 240Z
Via: Flickr

As well as beating the Porsche 911 of the time, the 1973 Datsun 240Z was also a great comparison to the Jaguar E-Type. Even by looking at its body, you could tell that the designers took inspiration from Jaguar.

Not only does it look the part, but it also drives the part too. The 1972 Datsun 240Z is amazingly smooth; it's easy to handle, offers sharp steering, and the power is immense given its weight.

Datsuns are known to be incredibly reliable. The only issue you might face is rust. Due to cheaper materials being used in comparison to its competition, the body is prone to rust if not well maintained; the same applies to the interior. The best way to prevent this is to make sure to stay on top of its cleaning and oiling, both inside and out.

It's an ideal everyday car as well as a great option to impress your friends. It looks cool driving down the highway, no matter if it's hitting its top speeds or not. It's great around a track and won't disappoint even the most experienced drivers.

In addition to its impressive handling, the 1973 Datsun 240Z is reportedly great during revs too. The car can handle a high rev count and sounds pretty beautiful when it does.