Datsun 240Z/260Z

Datsun was founded in 1933 as a lower-cost division of Nissan for the Asian market, but all of the company's models were sold in North America as Datsun until the early 1980s. The pre-war period is not overly interesting, but after the war, Datsun was one of the companies with the highest sales growth in the American market, then the largest in the world.

By the mid-1960s, Datsun had overtaken Volkswagen to become the best-selling car import in the American market thanks to its line of small pickups and the popular 510 model, which was sold as a sedan and wagon.

Despite good sales, the Japanese vehicle manufacturer was unhappy that it did not have a single car in its lineup that would raise the company's reputation. His cars were mostly simple, high-quality, and cheap, but the American public also wanted style, image, and equipment.

The first Datsun that was done with such an idea was the 1959 Fairlady roadster. But with only 37 hp under the hood, only 300 examples were sold over the next three years. Next in line was the 1962 1500 Sports Roadster, which was a copy of British roadsters, but despite the attractive design and low price, it still failed to leave a significant mark.

It can be said that the 1968 2000 Sports represented a breakthrough as it had 135 hp and then an exotic five-speed manual transmission. At the time, Nissan president Yutaka Katayama was considering how to win over Americans the Japanese way.

Given that Mr. Katayama lived and worked in California, he knew the taste of Americans to a great extent. He ordered drawings for the next generation roadster in the mid-1960s, but they had to be available as a coupe as well.

Presentation

In the end, the choice fell only on a coupe with two seats because the president of Nissan thought that the chances of success were the highest, and the official presentation was taken at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1969. It's an understatement to say that the audience was surprised by what they saw.

Photo: "Datsun 240Z" by FotoSleuth

The new 240Z offered everything that the performance models of Porsche and Jaguar did, but for a fraction of its $3,526 price. The Volvo P1800E cost $4,500, the Chevrolet Corvette $5,000, and the Jaguar E-Type $5,800, so Datsun's price seemed quite low, although the dealerships demanded even higher premiums for those who wanted this coupe.

Some claimed that the 240Z was a copy of the E-Type; others saw the lines of the Ferrari 250 GTO, but there is no doubt that the car was special in its own way.

Specs and Sales

Under the hood was the 146ci (2.4L) I6 engine from the 510 sedan that developed 150 hp, while the power was transmitted to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. That was enough to pull this 1,068 kg (2,355 lb) coupe to 100 kph (62 mph) in just 8 seconds and reach a top speed of 125 mph (201 kph).

Photo: "Grüner Datsun 240Z" by KaliTipps

Sales got off to a slow start, and Datsun delivered 10,000 units in the first year, but by mid-1971, Datsun was unable to produce enough to satisfy the market. In addition to the powerful engine, the market also liked the sports suspension, so during 1971, 26,733 copies were delivered to American customers.

In the same year, Datsun added a three-speed automatic transmission to the line, although even 90% of customers opted for the manual. By 1973, the price had risen to $4,400, but even so, 52,556 240Zs were sold.

Emissions Laws = 260Z

In 1974, Datsun introduced the new 260Z after the older 2.4L engine could no longer meet strict emissions laws. The new 156.5ci (2.6L) engine developed 139 hp, but due to its slightly higher weight, it was unable to record better acceleration.

The weight was increased to the greatest extent thanks to the new safety standards as well, and this was also reflected in the design of the vehicle after Datsun had to insert new bumpers. In the same year, an extended 2+2 version with rear seats was also offered, but it was never overly popular with customers.

Photo: "1974 Datsun 260Z" by kieranwhite599

The 260Z survived without changes for the next two years, when another increase in engine size followed, but that's another story...

240Z in Today's Market

Are you in the market for a Datsun 240Z? Well, strap in because you're in for a wild ride - both figuratively and literally!

These classic beauties from the 70s are like the rockstars of the automotive world. With their sleek lines and smooth curves, they're guaranteed to turn heads wherever you go. And let's not forget that iconic Fairlady badge that just screams style and sophistication.

Photo: "Datsun 240Z Fairlady" by Hugo-90

But let's talk turkey - or in this case, cash. The price range for a Datsun 240Z can vary wildly depending on factors like condition, mileage, and whether or not it comes with a unicorn horn attached (just kidding, but wouldn't that be cool?).

On the lower end of the spectrum, you might be able to snag one for around $10,000, but be prepared to shell out some serious dough if you're looking for a mint condition, fully restored model. Six figures can be waiting for you here.

Of course, owning a Datsun 240Z isn't just about the price tag - it's about the experience. From the exhilarating thrill of hitting the open road to the inevitable headaches of trying to find rare parts for that quirky engine, owning one of these classic cars is a journey all its own.

And What About the 260Z?

When you compare these two graphs, you will notice how much less the 260Z offer is than the 240Z. Considering that this model, unlike the 240Z, is less popular, you can count on finding it cheaper. But not much cheaper! The price ranges from $5,000 to $95,000, depending on the condition of the vehicle.

So, if you're thinking about adding a Datsun 240Z or 260Z to your garage, just remember - you're not just buying a car, you're buying a piece of automotive history. And hey, if nothing else, at least you'll look damn good cruising down the street in one of these bad boys.