1978 Datsun 260Z - 8,150mls

The Datsun 260Z was the second generation of 'Z' two-seat coupés produced by Nissan in Japan from 1975 to 1978. Its dramatic looks owed a considerable amount to a 1960's styling concept drawn by Count Albrecht Goertz for Datsun, presumably at a time when they were considering ways to break into the European sports car market.

The 260Z coupé replaced the 240Z. The engine was enlarged with a longer stroke to 2.6 litres with a consequential increase in power from 150bhp to 165 bhp and the car was stiffened by the extension of the chassis rails and the addition of a rear roll bar. Much like the 240Z, the car was fitted with a five-speed manual gearbox as standard and the car featured independent suspension all round with MacPherson struts at the front and Chapman links at the rear. Rack and pinion power steering and front disc brakes meant that the "Z" cars were a thoroughly modern package indeed.

The Datsun 260Z offered here is an original UK, RHD car first registered on 10/3/1978 and has only had two owners having been purchased from the original owner by our vendor in 1994. At the time of purchase, our vendor had spent a long time trying to source the best 260Z possible and ended up selecting this car because of its very low mileage and long term ownership.

After purchasing the car it was used sparingly for just one year before a change in circumstances meant that the car was put into storage in 1995 showing just 8,150 miles on the clock from new. It would remain there for a further 21 years, untouched, until being revealed in May of this year.

When the car was pulled out of storage it underwent a thorough inspection by specialist Richard Thorne Classic Cars. The engine was turned by hand and then connected to a small auxiliary fuel tank to bypass the fuel tank/lines and briefly started and run with no obvious issues. In order for a new owner to fully run the car, the condition of the inside of the tank and fuel lines would need to be inspected and old fuel drained. It would also need a full mechanical service including thoroughly going through the braking system.

Finished in a striking shade of Copper Bronze Metallic, the bodywork is generally in very good condition with small, localised bubbles of rust here and there and some surface rust on the chrome work. There are some minor paint blisters in various places, mainly on the roof. The underside looks fine with some minor surface rust, however, it appears to wear its original paint and has been 'Waxoyled' in the past. Inside the car is in very good original condition showing no obvious signs of excessive use.

Offered with a history file containing past MoT's, original hand book and service book featuring 2 services, original tool roll, jack and wheel chock. Presented as it was the day it left storage, this car is possibly an unrepeatable opportunity to own what could be one of the lowest mileage "Z" cars in existence. Ready for recommissioning or preserving, this rare car would be a very rewarding and straightforward project.