1973 Datsun 240Z Coupe
Before adopting the unified Nissan badge globally in 1983, Datsun represented the company’s exported vehicles for five decades.
Earlier Fairlady roadsters won acclaim, yet the 1973 240Z cemented Datsun’s reputation for broadly appealing Japanese sports cars with its universal competencies. Blending European aesthetic inspiration with robust accessibility, the trendsetting 240Z captivated worldwide enthusiasts.
Introduced for 1969 after extensive development, the Datsun 240Z resulted from the brand’s dedicated push into international markets riding surging demand for modern, affordable sports coupes. Its sleek silhouette reflected design input from Japanese and global contributors including consultant Count Albrecht Goertz, famed for stately European grand tourers like the BMW 507.
Beneath the low, purposeful bodywork lived a 2.4-liter single-overhead-cam inline-six producing 150 horsepower, sent rearward through four- and five-speed manuals or a three-speed automatic. Independent suspension, front disc brakes and abundant standard features complemented the powertrain at a reasonable price.
This compelling value proposition earned high praise from critics like automotive journalist Mike Lawrence, who declared in his book “A-Z of Sports Cars“:
“With a top speed of 125mph (0-60mph in eight seconds), a high level of trim as standard (options included air conditioning), a low price and new standards of reliability, the 240Z not only replaced the Austin-Healey 3000 but took sales from both the MGB and Jaguar E-Type.”
Enthusiasts relished the 240Z for nimble handling and free-breathing six-cylinder motivation good for 0-60 sprints in around eight seconds.
Alongside commanding showroom appeal, the Datsun proved equally capable on track, gaining class wins and podiums in international series like the East African Safari Rally. Annual improvements addressed evolving safety and emissions regulations while retaining core competencies.
By the 1973 model year, impact bumpers, pollution controls and other updates had moderately tempered output and weight. But the 240Z maintained appeal on inherent strengths like accessible serviceability, durability and sheer joy of driving.
When the related 260Z successor followed for 1974, the precedent for affordable, world-class sports cars was firmly cemented.
The original 240Z went on to become internationally revered, coveted by collectors for its beauty and role sparking Japanese sports cars’ rise to prominence. It was a pivotal ambassador signaling the industry’s coming of age.
Credit: Bring a Trailer
