1972 Datsun 240Z Unrestored Survivor For Sale
100% original / ONE owner
This is a true TIME CAPSULE example that is completely original including the paint, interior and drivetrain which is all numbers correct (matching). If you’re looking for a 1972 Datsun 240z for sale… this is an excellent choice!
It has effectively had only one owner from new who put all but the last few hundred miles on it (those miles were me enjoying it). The lifelong owner, now deceased, was a former US Air Force officer who fussed over this car for decades and maintained it in excellent original condition. The paint which is now over 50 years old still has a nice shine along with some of the patina that comes with time and use. It has always been in a dry southern climate, consequently it has none of the pervasive rot/rust issues so common in these cars (one dog leg has some blisters). The interior is super impressive from the original carpet to the headliner. The dash has the seemingly mandatory crack (just one) but is otherwise outstanding.
Mechanically excellent
This is a “get in and go” 240Z. It starts easily, pulls strong and is super tight. If you know these cars, you will instantly know you are in a quality example. I had a compression test done and the results were excellent (recorded on video). Everything works except the clock and the experience behind the wheel is extremely satisfying including tight crisp shifts and excellent clutch action.
Recent major sorting
After the original owner passed away, the car sat in the garage undriven for an extended period of time. Consequently, as an abundance of caution, the car underwent a major sorting to insure it was ready for on demand reliable use. Included in the sorting was the following;
– rebuild the SC Carburetors
– full Tune Up including Balance Tune the carbs
– new brake Master Cylinder & Brake Proportioning Valve
– new Brake Lines
– new Brakes
– new Fuel Tank & new filter
– replace ALL hoses & hose clamps ( cost $1,000 for correct OEM style )
– replace lower water inlet tube
– replace ALL fresh fluids
– new Tires
– new Battery
– rebuild Shifter, replace inner shifter boot & inner bearing seal
– TEST DRIVEN to insure adequacy of all the above items
…………. And likely some things I have forgotten
“Survivor status” & Best Year
There is an ever-growing appreciation for the unrestored survivor. This is particularly true in a mark that seems to have so FEW examples in this condition. The old adage is true … “you can only be original once”. This is a rare opportunity to own a true high quality survivor example of one of the most sought-after collector cars in today’s market. It will only go up in value while you enjoy it.
For the guys that are knowledgeable about these cars, they will quickly agree that the 1972 is the most refined year for the 240Z run, and, in the minds of many, the best year to own. I know there are a few “collectors” that get more focused on the rarity of the early vin# cars and pay premiums for that. However, in my opinion, the 1972 is the best VALUE and the one to own (NOT the most valuable, but the best VALUE in that it’s the most refined while not being the most expensive = “best value”). See below list for the refinements found in the 1972 240Z.
Improvements in the 1972 over early vin “Series I” 240Z’s
- New IMPROVED 4 speed Transmission Design (stronger, better reliability)
- Rear End Moved Rearward 35mm (about 1.4 inches) for better handling,
- Elimination of hatch door ‘rear vents’ which could trap water leading to rust issues AND also allowed exhaust to penetrate the cabin,
- Replaced the ‘vertical’ rear window defroster elements with ‘horizontal’ to eliminate blind spots
- Update with Flip Forward Seats for easier access to the rear,
- Redesign the Center Console for better functionality,
- Addition of Auto Seat Belt Retractors & Added Belt Warning Buzzer & Seat Belt Warning Light,
- 5 Inch Wide Wheels made standard
