2k: This Won’t Last: 1971 Datsun 240Z
The Datsun 240Z was the first mass market Japanese sports car to hit the US market and it was fantastic. Low driving position, peppy 150hp inline-6 up front, and communicative steering make for a great sports car. Prices of the first generation Z-car were low for years, but recently the market for good, original condition examples has boomed and finding one owner examples that just need some carb sorting for less than $3k…yeah…that doesn’t happen every day. Find this 1971 Datsun 240Z offered for $2,900 in Los Angeles, CA via craigslist (posted 14 hours ago…so…you might be able to get it).
The seller claims to be the original owner, but says it needs some work from sitting 10 years, however the engine was only a year old when it was parked. It is hard to tell in the pictures, but the body doesn’t look bad and while these cars do rust easily, a California example shouldn’t be that bad.
A quick peak inside shows steering wheel wrap, felt dash cover and sheepskin seat covers…which either have worked to preserve the original interior or are hiding a massacre. With a 4 speed manual trans and at this price, who cares!
See a cheaper way to get into a Z car for less? tips@dailyturismo.com
Someone who appreciates these cars please, please pick this one up. I don't want to see it flipped and back on the CL next week for double the price.
I'm fairly certain I looked at this car in late February when it was sitting on flat tires in the gentleman's garage. I passed on it, but he also wanted double what he's asking right now. It did turn over but it leaked fuel pretty badly over the exhaust manifold and didn't fire… not something I wanted to dig into at the time but in hindsight, I probably should have made an offer.
RyanM – I thought about you and the story of your recent Z purchase when I saw this car. These one owner Zs aren't going to be around much longer.
EIC Vince
Thankfully, it's a '72 and not the smog-strangled '73! In other good news, this never needs a smog test in CA, just like my '75 with a 3.1L stroker…
CL listing is g-g-gone