Datsun 240Z

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Launched in 1969 as a direct competitor to the Jaguar E-Type, Triumph TR5, Alfa Spider and Healey 3000, the Datsun 240Z amazed everyone by becoming the best-selling sports car of all time, clocking up over a million sales, the vast majority in America.

With a combination of Ferrari-esque styling, bullet proof mechanicals and a lusty 150bhp 2.4 straight-six engine, the 240Z's popular appeal was cemented by a highly successful career in international rallying. In 1974 it was replaced by the very similar 260Z, now with a 162bhp 2.6 engine, followed by the US-market only 280Z in 1975, now with a fuel-injected 170bhp 2.8 engine.

First registered in March 1972, this rare RHD 240Z has had just four owners from new and has been in the current ownership since 1980. In 1990 it was rebuilt to Post-Historic Rally Class C2 spec and was issued with MSA papers in September 2001. We are told that this included fitting a replacement shell from a rust-free 240Z California import and the engine and 5-speed gearbox from a 280Z fitted with triple Dellorto 45 carbs (the original 240Z engine and ‘box are also included but will need to be collected from the Bromsgrove area if desired).

The MSA papers detail several modifications including disc brakes all round with 4-pot front calipers and 2-pot rears, uprated suspension, adjustable at the front and a limited slip diff. It also has a Safety Devices roll cage, bucket seats with Sabelt harnesses, plumbed-in fire extinguishers, rear strut brace, alloy sump guard, additional front driving lamps and map reading lights.

On offer here from a deceased estate, we are told that it has only been lightly used on low level events, an online MOT history check showing that it has only covered 5,300 miles since 2005 and has never had any advisories, the current MOT being valid until April 2019, again with no advisories.

Japanese classics have soared in value of late and with top examples of the 240Z now making over £30k at auction, it looks mighty tempting at the sensible guide price suggested. No doubt it could also be converted back to road spec with relative ease, Z spares still being readily available at modest cost, especially in America.