Featured on AutoHunter is this 1972 Datsun 240-Z, one of the first Japanese cars to capture enthusiasts’ hearts, as well as one of the first Japanese collectibles in America. Car and Driver said in 1970, “The difference between the Datsun 240-Z and your everyday three-and-a-half thousand dollar sports car is that about twice as much thinking went into the Datsun. It shows.” Power comes from a 2.4-liter inline-six paired with a four-speed manual transmission. Other features include center console, air conditioning, aftermarket AM/FM/cassette stereo with digital tuner, and sunroof. Finished in red over a white vinyl interior, this classic Japanese sports car is offered by the selling dealer with service records and a clear title.
The red hue is bright, just like you’d want in a sports car. The 2018 repaint is complemented by black side mirrors, longitudinal protective trim, chrome rear bumper guard, and other assorted brightwork. Twin chrome exhaust tips exit from the left rear. A dual-panel sunroof helps you enjoy the rays while carving corners in the backroads. A set of 14-inch aftermarket wheels (not specified, but they look like Appliance Dia-Mag wheels) are wrapped in 205/70 Toyo radials.
The white vinyl interior is complemented by black components. A pair of bucket seats are divided by a center console housing the shifter. Other interior features include air conditioning, three-spoke steering wheel, and aftermarket JVC AM/FM stereo with cassette.
The instrument panel features a 160-mph speedometer and 8,000-rpm tachometer, with gauges for the oil pressure, temperature, amperage, and fuel, plus clock. The odometer shows 92,470 miles, though the title reads mileage-exempt.
The OHC six-cylinder measures 2393cc and put out 150 horsepower on 8.8:1 compression. Fuel is delivered by a pair of single-barrel carburetors. Power is transmitted through a four-speed manual transmission.
The undercarriage features a fully independent suspension, power front disc brakes, 3.36 gears in the rear differential, and a dual exhaust system.
Nissan . . . er, Datsun set out to do the Italians and Brits one better, and it succeeded. The 240-Z would be a stellar collectible no matter who built it, but it so happens that it is from the Land of the Rising Sun. The red and white color combo is just right, and we all should be thankful this isn’t a post-1972 car with bumpers that ruin its grace. Get your bid in for this 1972 Datsun 240-Z by 11:00 a.m. (PDT) on September 5, 2025, or you’ll miss out on a sports car that keeps you from cursing under your breath.
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