European sports cars shouldn't get all the glory. At least, that's what Nissan thought back in 1969. It's this line of thinking that the world was thankfully blessed with the Datsun 240Z. The Datsun 240Z burst onto the sports car scene beginning in the model year 1970, to explicitly compete with its European rivals.
With a streamlined yet aggressive body style, lively handling, and the reliability of Japanese automotive engineering under the hood, the Datsun 240Z earned its way into the hearts of sports car fans and diehard gearheads. In America, the Datsun 240Z helped bridge the gap between the more popular muscle cars at the time, and the sprightly sports car.
True gearheads really should think about adding the Datsun 240Z to their garage, and we are here to make a case for that. Although, the Datsun 240Z hardly needs our help in convincing you to own one of Nissan's coolest cars.
Datsun 240Z: The Original Z Car
The Datsun 240Z, also known as the Nissan Fairlady Z back in its native Japan, is the first in the Z car line. The Z cars have now become iconic – bringing Japanese sensibility and performance car roots to the mainstream. Many credit the Datsun Z cars, such as the original 240Z, as having a halo effect on the automotive scene. Gone were the days when Japanese cars were only regarded as economical and no frills. With the thrilling Datsun 240Z making its debut, Japanese automakers soon showed the world that they could be a sports car force, like their European counterparts.
Production of the Datsun 240Z began in 1969, and lasted until 1973. The early 1969 models sport a 2.4-liter engine with a manual choke, and a four-speed manual transmission. Fun fact – Datsun did produce a five-speed manual transmission version of the 240Z as well, but it was not available in the US. By 1971, a lesser known three-speed automatic transmission was available until 1973 when production of the 240Z stopped. Don't worry, though, the 1970s brought with them the 260Z and the 280Z, respectively. As we move into later decades, we soon begin seeing other cars in Nissan's Z line of top performing, brisk sports cars.
Back to the Datsun 240Z – this beauty is ready to compete with other sports cars of the era. The 240Z expects to produce around 150 horsepower, has a top speed of 125 miles per hour, achieves speed from 0 to 60 in 8 seconds, and its fuel economy clocks in at about 21 miles per gallon.
What Makes The 240Z So Desirable
We doubt that the Datsun 240Z needs anyone's help to make a case for why true gearheads would want one, but we can't help ourselves. I mean, just look at it.
Datsuns originally weren't among America's favorite list of cars, let's just be honest. In the 1970s, Americans were overcome with the need for big cars and big engines. When the Datsun 240Z got introduced, the US (not to mention the world) quickly took notice, in the best way.
The 240Z donned design features that were ahead of the curve, and we appreciate this car's curves. A long hood compliments the coupe end, with an elegance in between. The general design is so iconic that no car has come close to it, making it a unique and special car to own. The Japanese design made for an American market is the perfect marriage of what we hold iconic as a sports car. Whether you’re looking to keep a stock and true to the original 240Z, or modify it with a lowered suspension and new paint, it will always stand out in a crowd.
One could easily put a Datsun 240Z next to a Porsche from the same era, and not feel that the Datsun was lacking.
Now, let's take it to the interior. Looking at the Datsun 240Z from the outside, one may not guess that it is actually quite roomy behind the wheel and in the seats.
Datsun 240Zs only weigh about 2,500 lbs, making them perfect for conquering tight corners and getting up to speed at a fast pace. The Datsun 240Z also graces us with precision handling and a spry feel – two attributes that have since stood the test of time through the new millennia.
The Lasting Legacy Of The Datsun 240Z Sports Car
We know now that the Datsun 240Z is a pioneer – revolutionizing sports cars and the Japanese approach to them as we know it. The Datsun 240Z made itself right at home as a staple in the world of car enthusiasts and gearheads.
The Datsun 240Z unveils a new line of cars that is still going strong to this day. Introducing a different type of sports car pedigree with successors found in the Nissan Z line, the Datsun 240Z is a must-own for gearheads looking to have their own piece of motoring heritage pie.