Lot details
Registration No: MHE171M
Chassis No: H530.100855
Mot Expiry: T.B.A.

The Nissan S30 (sold in Japan as the Nissan Fairlady Z and in other markets as the Datsun 240Z) was introduced in late 1969 as a 1970 model. Commonly held to be the car that killed off the MGC and Big Healey by beating them on all fronts in the UK and US export markets, it offered an appealing mix of crisp modern style with old-fashioned grunt, and was well-equipped. Powered by a lusty Mercedes-inspired 2.4-litre overhead cam straight-six engine, performance and handling, from the all-round independent suspension, by MacPherson struts at the front and Chapman-type struts with lower wishbones at the back, were excellent. Most export cars were sold into the US market and such was the original Z's impact there that when Nissan was preparing to launch the 350Z in 2002, it instigated a programme whereby surviving 240Zs were bought up, professionally restored and then sold at official US dealerships for $24,000 apiece.

Finished in orange with black upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" (manual gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim) or "very good" (engine, bodywork, paintwork) condition. Reportedly treated to much restoration at the hands of an enthusiast mechanic, 'MHE 171M' has clearly been inspired by the exploits of legendary Z engine tuner Spike Anderson, who created the Samuri Z cars through the 1970s and 1980s. Riding on Wolfrace wheels, like some of the original Samuris, and displaying that company's trademark insignia along its flanks, the two-door coupe is understood to have benefited from a bare metal respray and engine overhaul / upgrade to Samuri-style specification including a reworked cylinder head and triple Weber carburettors. Further boasting a stainless steel exhaust, the Datsun is said to have seen "little use since the work was completed".