1972 Datsun 240Z

The new, must have, 1970's sports car...The launch of the Datsun 240Z was well timed, as enthusiasts decided it was the spiritual successor to the much-loved Austin Healey 3000, and contemporary road tests reinforced the 'hairy chested' and 'proper sports car' image.

The lusty 2.4 straight six overhead cam engine delivered over 150bhp and gave the car a 0-60mph time of around 8 seconds and a 125mph top speed. The manual gearbox contained five-speeds and the car featured independent suspension all round, with MacPherson struts at the front and Chapman struts at the rear. Rack and pinion power steering and front disc brakes enhanced the package still further.

Imported from the States in March of this year, this left-hand drive 240Z has now had all the necessary work carried out to bring it up to UK standards and is offered with an MOT certificate until July 2017 and a V5c. The production plate inside the car declares that it was built in October 1971 and the odometer currently reads 94,500 miles. Finished in Datsun Red Orange (110) with a Black leather interior. The vendor has told us that the paint “Looks like a respray but is mostly in original condition”. He goes on to describe the car as in “Lovely condition with excellent interior”. Obviously, this is his opinion, but certainly, the photographs suggest that it's in very good shape. These 240Zs handle and drive really well for the era, and this car is no exception so its vendor informs us.

Sensibly guided, this smart 1972, 'Z' car represents an excellent opportunity to acquire an increasingly well-regarded seventies' sports car that is now gaining momentum in the collector's market.