Nissan Fairlady Z 240Z (S30)
The Datsun 240Z (sold as the Nissan Fairlady Z in Japan) is the car that proved Japan could build world-class sports cars for the masses. When it debuted in 1969, it offered a combination of performance, style, comfort, and reliability that no European sports car could match at its price point. It was, quite simply, the sports car bargain of the century.
Designed by Yoshihiko Matsuo at Nissan's design studio, the 240Z's styling was inspired by the Jaguar E-Type and the Toyota 2000GT. The long hood, short deck proportions, flowing fender lines, and hatchback rear created a shape that was elegant and sporty. It was beautiful — not as overtly stunning as the E-Type, but more practical and modern.
The 2.4-liter L24 inline-six was smooth, willing, and reliable — three adjectives that couldn't be applied to most British sports cars of the era. With 151 hp in US spec, the 240Z could sprint to 60 mph in about 8 seconds and reach 125 mph. These were comparable numbers to the Jaguar E-Type 4.2, which cost twice as much.
But the 240Z's greatest advantage was its reliability and ease of ownership. While British sports cars required constant attention (Lucas electrics, SU carburetors, oil leaks), the 240Z started every time, ran without drama, and required only routine maintenance. For the first time, sports car ownership didn't require mechanical sympathy or a personal mechanic.
The 240Z was a smash hit. It became the best-selling sports car in the world, with over 150,000 units produced from 1969-73. The subsequent 260Z and 280Z continued the formula (with larger engines and 2+2 seating options) but the original 240Z remains the purist's choice and the most collectible Z car.
The 240Z's impact extends far beyond sales figures. It launched the Japanese sports car revolution that eventually produced the NSX, Supra, RX-7, and GT-R. Every affordable sports car since — from the Miata to the BRZ — owes a debt to the 240Z's demonstration that sports car ownership could be accessible to everyone.
The 240Z is the most desirable Z car, with values rising steadily. Series 1 cars (1970 — first US model year) are most valuable. Rust is the 240Z's worst enemy — check floor pans, frame rails, rocker panels, rear quarter panels, spare tire well, and battery tray. The L24 engine is extremely durable and parts are widely available. SU-type carburetors are simple to maintain. The 4-speed gearbox is adequate; the 5-speed (available from 1971) is more desirable. Many 240Zs have been modified for racing (SCCA, vintage rallying) — a numbers-matching, original-condition car commands a significant premium.
Total S30 Z production (all markets, 1969-78): approximately 546,072. 240Z (1969-73): ~150,000. 260Z (1974-75): ~roughly 100,000. 280Z (1975-78): ~roughly 296,000. Japan-market Fairlady Z432 (with DOHC S20 engine from GT-R): just 419 produced — extremely valuable. US market accounted for the majority of sales.