Lot 213: 1973 Datsun 240Z Super Samurai Competition

Launched in 1969, the Datsun 240Z was destined to become the best-selling sports car of the '70s. What the badge lacked in romance and cachet, the 240Z more than made up for with its well-balanced muscular lines, penned by Albrecht Goertz, father of the beautiful BMW 507. With its long bonnet, recessed lights and those flowing, tense rear haunches, the Z clearly took its styling cues from the E-Type Jaguar fixed head coupe, yet it was pure and elegant enough to have an appeal of its own. A well-equipped two-seater with a rear hatchback, the 240Z concealed few surprises beneath its skin, yet lacked for nothing. The engine, a smooth, punchy, straight-six cylinder producing 151bhp from 2,393cc, drove through a five-speed gearbox to a well-sorted strut-and-wishbone suspended rear end. There were struts at the front too, and precise rack and pinion took care of the steering. The car handled superbly, if traditionally, and went like the wind, topping 125mph with ease. Sales took off and Datsun never looked back, selling 150,076 before the 260Z took over in 1975. The 240Z was thus destined to form a part of any serious collection representing, as it did, the most significant coupe ever to reach the mass market. Presented here in a classic colour of the era, orange over bronze with red and black interior trim, SGF 27L has had a quantity of remedial work carried as and when necessary over the years, including fitment of a stainless steel exhaust system. With just three previous owners, a MoT test certificate and the striking addition of Nissan sport wheels, this great straight six cylinder sports coupe deserves every plaudit attributed to this performance icon.