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| Lot number | 163 |
|---|---|
| Hammer value | £14,400 |
| Description | Datsun 260Z 2-Seater |
| Year | 1977 |
| Colour | Silver |
| Engine size | 2,565 cc |
| Chassis No. | RS30 021224 |
| Engine No. | L26 201324 |
Head of Datsun’s sports car design studio, Mr Yoshihiko Matsuo knew which buttons to press when he came up with the concept for the 240Z, or Fairlady Z as it was known in its home market.
A cross between a Ferrari 365 Daytona and a Maserati Ghibli with a bit of Triumph GT6 thrown in for good measure, its perfectly balanced and sharp ‘70s looks hit the big-time. By the time its final iteration, the rather more lardy 280Z, had run its course, over 1 million had been sold worldwide, the bulk of them in the lucrative US market.
Initially available with a 150bhp 2.4-litre super-smooth seven-bearing straight-six, a longer stroke version added another 12bhp and a dollop more torque from 1974 with the introduction of the facelifted 260Z. The chassis was beefed up, although it retained the all-round independent suspension from the 240Z, featuring MacPherson struts up front and unusual Chapman struts (named after Colin Chapman) at the rear, where the rear drive-shafts form the lower link in the suspension combined with long coil-overs supporting the top.
From 1974 a 2+2 version was marketed and at just a few pounds more than an MGB, Triumph TR5 or Austin Healey these ‘Z-cars’ found many new friends.
This lovely late 1977 2-seater has been in long-term ownership for the last 20 years or so and has recently undergone a substantial restoration programme. A large file of invoices accompanies the car which shows that many new genuine Nissan components have been fitted. The carpets have been replaced, along with a refurbished interior and the car sits on a set of period ‘Woolfies’.
Just serviced, its MOT expires in December 2015 and we are informed that it goes just as well as it looks. Now hard to find in this condition, the super-cool styling, solid engineering and 127mph performance has attracted a new generation to the charms of these Z machines so demand is high and prices are rising fast. This beautiful example could well prove a canny buy at the guide price suggested.
