One of the evergreen sports cars from the past has to be the Datsun 240Z. This was manufactured by Nissan, but the model was completely sold by Datsun. It was a 2-door fastback sports coupe in production between 1969 to 1973. It was made using Japanese technology with designs inspired by European cars. What’s special about the vehicle is it made the world look back at Japanese cars. The dominance of Japanese vehicles in racing reached the next level. Datsun 240z also made way for more Japanese sports cars in the future. Let us see about the 1971 Datsun 240z.
L24 Engines
The 71′ Datsun 240z was equipped with the most iconic L24 engine from Nissan. Built around a 2.6L inline-6 engine and SOHC, the vehicle resulted in aggressive performance. It was a sports car with a maximum speed of 125mph. Though horsepower and torque were low, Datsun 240z relied on its engines which delivered smooth performances. It was an ideal vehicle for motorsport events with RWD layout. Datsun 240z was another front-engine vehicle.
Sporty Features
1971 Datsun 240Z had both performance-oriented and luxury interior features as well. This was designed as a complete sports car, but Nissan incorporated some interior features like speedometer, clock, heater, tachometer, and bucket seats. Datsun 240z was made on lightweight chassis which enhanced handling. The vehicle had disc and drum brakes with independent suspension. Datsun 240z preferred the 4-speed manual gearbox option as it was a racing package. Overall, the performance was smooth and furious.
Stylish Look
The Datsun 240z was inspired by vintage European cars. As it was designed as a sports car, it had a mix of aggressive and boxy styling with a low roofline and long hood. The front end had a chrome grille, round headlights, circular gauges, and instrumentation. Datsun 240z was much akin to the Jaguar E-Type. The available paint schemes were White, Orange, Yellow, Green, Red and Blue. The vehicle’s rear had more aerodynamics with sporty looks.
Racing Heritage
Datsun 240z had the racing breed in it. It featured in many motorsport events during the 70s. Datsun 240z’s record in Safari Rally was huge. It was part of other major racing events like SCCA and Trans-Am Series. Being a lightweight vehicle with Inline-6 engine helped the vehicle compete in racing. The vehicle’s durability was great as it could go through mountains, terrains, and desert. Datsun 240z’s success in motorsports gave hope for other brands. This also helped Japanese vehicles compete in more racing events.
Great Sales
Although the Datsun 240z was not a mass selling vehicle, it did amazing sales. The 71′ model sold around 45,000 units. Overall, more than 1.5L units were sold between 1969 to 1973. The lightweight chassis, Japanese engineering, and designs helped Datsun capture the market. It did great sales in the USA market as well. Datsun 240z was expensive and sold at $3,200 USD on average. The vehicle’s racing DNA and Nissan’s brand image were enough for people to buy the model. It is available in selective collector markets now at a slashed price.
