Datsun
Datsun's iconic sports car (1969-1973). 2.4-liter L24 inline-six. Launched the affordable sports car category in North America.
The Datsun 240Z is a sports car produced from 1969 to 1973. The 240Z (called Fairlady Z in Japan) launched the Z car nameplate and the affordable Japanese sports car category in North America. Light, fast, beautifully styled, and inexpensive (under $4,000 new), the 240Z gave buyers Jaguar E-Type performance for less than half the price. The 240Z used the L24 2.4-liter inline-six naturally aspirated engine making 151 horsepower (gross). Front-engine, rear-wheel drive, four-speed manual transmission. Curb weight around 2,300 pounds. The 240Z became the best-selling sports car in the world by 1972. The 240Z is one of the most influential Japanese cars ever made. The styling, the lightweight chassis, and the accessible price point established a formula that subsequent Z cars (260Z, 280Z, 280ZX, 300ZX, 350Z, 370Z, current Z) have continued. The 240Z is also the foundation of the Japanese restomod scene; many 240Z restomods use modern engines (RB26, LS swaps, VQ swaps) while preserving the original chassis. On WhipJury, 240Z submissions are common, particularly restomod and engine-swap builds.
L24 2.4L naturally aspirated inline-six. 151 horsepower (gross). Four-speed manual. Curb weight around 2,300 pounds. 0-60 in around 8 seconds. Top speed around 120 mph. Production: about 524,000 cars total.