Nissan Z240 Fairlady — not just a car, but a symbol of the era. This model, known outside Japan as Datsun 240Z, became the first swallow in the legendary line Nissan Z, which took the world by storm in the late 1960s. A sports coupe with elegant lines, a reliable engine and an affordable price, it changed the perception of Japanese cars, proving that they could compete with European brands.

Released in 1969, Fairlady Z (S30) quickly gained popularity due to the perfect balance of power, handling and design. Its 2.4-liter inline-six engine L24 developed 151 hp - an impressive figure for that time. But the main advantage of the model was its lightweight body (less than 1 ton) and rear-wheel drive, which made it a real driver's car.

Today Z240 Fairlady - a rare and sought-after collector's item. Prices for original copies in good condition reach tens of thousands of dollars, and restoration projects require serious investments. In this article we will analyze the history of the model, its technical features, weaknesses and give practical advice to those who dream of becoming the owner of a legend.

The history of the Nissan Z240 Fairlady: how the Japanese conquered America

The idea of creation Fairlady Z belongs Yutaka Katayama - to a legendary Nissan engineer who dreamed of creating an affordable sports car that could compete with Porsche 911 And Jaguar E-Type. The project started in 1965 under the code name S30, and four years later the world saw the first episode.

The debut took place at the Tokyo Motor Show in October 1969, but the model made a real splash in the USA, where it was sold under the brand Datsun. American dealers were skeptical - Japanese cars were then associated with cheap and unreliable economy cars. However, test drives on the track Riverside Raceway debunked all the myths: 240Z ahead of many European competitors, including Alfa Romeo GT And Triump TR6.

  • 📅 1969 - start of mass production in Japan (model Fairlady Z 432 with engine S20 for the domestic market).
  • 🌍 1970 - export to the USA under the name Datsun 240Z; sales exceeded all expectations (more than 15 thousand cars in the first year).
  • 🏆 1971 - victory in rally East African Safari Rally, which strengthened the model’s reputation.
  • 🔄 1973 - switch to engine L26 (2.6 l) due to stricter environmental regulations (model 260Z).

Fun fact: name Fairlady was given in honor of the Broadway musical "My Fair Lady", which was popular in Japan in the 1960s. A letter Z chosen as a symbol of the highest category in the Japanese car classification (analogous to the German S-Klasse from Mercedes).

📊 How do you feel about classic Japanese sports cars?
  • I love it and want to buy it
  • I like it, but I prefer modern models
  • I'm interested in history, but not as an owner
  • Not mine - I only like European cars

Specs: Why the Z240 Fairlady was ahead of its time

With my heart Fairlady Z240 became the engine L24 - 2.4-liter inline six-cylinder unit with overhead camshaft (SOHC). This motor was developed specifically for sports models and had several unique features:

  • 🔥 Aluminum cylinder block with cast iron sleeves - a rare solution for that time, reducing weight.
  • ⚙️ Two Hitachi carburetors (on earlier versions) or injection system EFI (since 1972 for the American market).
  • 💨 Power 151 hp at 5600 rpm and a torque of 198 Nm - enough to accelerate to 100 km/h in 8 seconds.
  • 🔧 Timing chain drive (instead of a belt), which increased reliability.

Transmission offered a choice of: 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic (optional for the US market). The suspension was classic for sports cars of that time: in the front - independent on double wishbones, in the rear - dependent with springs. The brakes are disc brakes on all wheels (ventilated front), which was an innovation for Japanese cars.

Parameter Nissan Fairlady Z240 (S30, 1969–1973) Datsun 240Z (export version)
Engine L24 (2.4 l, R6, SOHC) L24 (since 1972 - with the system EFI)
Power 130–151 hp (depending on market) 151 hp (carburetor) / 139 hp (EFI)
Gearbox 4-speed manual transmission or 3-automatic transmission 4-speed manual transmission (optional 5-speed manual transmission from 1973)
Acceleration 0–100 km/h 8.0–8.5 sec 8.3 sec (s EFI)
Max. speed 200 km/h 193 km/h (limited by environmental regulations)

A unique feature of the Fairlady Z240 is that its body was designed using a wind tunnel, which was an innovation in the 1960s. Drag coefficient (Cx) was 0.38 - better than many modern sports cars of that time.

Modifications and rare versions: which Fairlady Z240 are worth millions

During production (1969–1973) several modifications were released Fairlady Z240, but some of them are considered real rarities today. The most valuable specimens are:

  • 🏁 Fairlady Z 432 (1969–1970) - version for the Japanese market with engine S20 (2.0 l, DOHC, 160 hp), developed with the participation of Prince Motor Company. A total of ~420 pieces were produced.
  • 🇺🇸 Datsun 240Z HS30-H (1971) - a special version for the USA with power steering and air conditioning (a rarity, since most buyers thought this was an overkill).
  • 🏆 Fairlady Z Racing (1971) — racing modification with a lightweight body and a 180+ hp engine. Participated in Japanese Grand Prix.
  • 🔥 240Z "Long Nose" (1973) — a prototype with an extended hood for installation of more powerful engines (only 2 copies survived).

The model stands apart Fairlady Z-L — luxury version with leather trim, electric windows and improved sound insulation. These cars are now valued at 2–3 times more expensive than standard versions.

⚠️ Attention: There are often fakes on the market Fairlady Z 432. Original copies have unique VIN numbers (starting with S30-00xxx) and a special plate on the body with the inscription 432-R. Please check the history through Japanese archives before purchasing!

Prices for rare versions today reach astronomical amounts. For example, in 2021 at auction Bring a Trailer Datsun 240Z 1971 in perfect condition went for $120 000, and Fairlady Z 432 in 2023 it was sold for ¥35 000 000 (about $250,000).

Weaknesses and typical problems: what to look for when purchasing

Despite its legendary status, Fairlady Z240 - The car is 50 years old and has a number of "illnesses" that any potential owner should be aware of. The main problems are related to:

  1. Body — Rust on the sills, arches and bottom. The mounting areas of the bumpers and rear panels are especially vulnerable.
  2. Engine - camshaft wear, oil leaks through the valve cover gasket, problems with carburetors (on early models).
  3. Electrics — oxidation of contacts, generator malfunctions, problems with the ignition system.
  4. Suspension — wear of silent blocks, ball joints and shock absorbers (spare parts often have to be made to order).

The most dangerous problem is side member corrosion. On many examples, rust eats away from the inside, which makes the body unrepairable. Before purchasing, be sure to check:

Check the VIN number to match the year of manufacture (on the plate under the hood)

Inspect the sills and arches for traces of welding or putty

Start the engine "cold" - there should be no knocking or blue smoke

Make sure all electrical devices (headlights, turn signals, fan) are working

Check the steering wheel play and the condition of the brake discs -->

Another critical point - engine authenticity. Many Fairlady Z during the history of operation received swaps for motors from Nissan Skyline or 280ZX. Original L24 must have a number corresponding to the vehicle's VIN (the first three digits are the same).

⚠️ Attention: If the seller claims that the car is “all original” but refuses to provide a service history or photos of restoration, this is a reason to be wary. Many "original" specimens are actually assembled from multiple donors.

Restoration and tuning: how to bring Fairlady Z240 back to life

Restoration Fairlady Z240 - a task not for the faint of heart. Due to the age of the car, most spare parts are no longer produced, and original parts cost incredible amounts of money. However, enthusiasts find a way out:

  • 🔧 Body panels can be ordered from specialized companies (for example, Black Dragon Auto Works or Z Car Depot). The price for a wing or hood starts from $1,500.
  • ⚙️ Engine often restored with an increase in volume to 2.8 liters (the so-called L28 lineman). Swaps on RB25 or VQ35 from modern Nissans.
  • ⚡ Electrics - many owners switch to modern wiring with relays and fuses, and also install electronic ignition.
  • 🎨 Interior - original seats and dashboard are restored by specialists (for example, Z Therapy in the USA). Alternative - replicas from Schroth or Corbau.

One of the most popular tuning projects is engine installation. SR20DET from Nissan Silvia. Such a swap adds 200+ hp, but requires serious modifications to the suspension and braking system. A more conservative option is to force the standard L24 using:

  • 🔥 Turbo kit (for example, from TurboKits.com)
  • ⚙️ Lightweight flywheel and clutch OS Giken
  • 💨 Exhaust systems Megan Racing or Borla

The cost of a complete restoration from scratch can exceed $50 000, but the result is worth it - properly restored Fairlady Z240 not only pleases the eye, but also brings driving pleasure.

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If you're planning a restoration, start by finding a donor with the most complete body possible - even if the engine and interior are in poor condition. Metal is the hardest to restore!

Fairlady Z240 in racing: how a Japanese sports car proved its superiority

Nissan Fairlady Z240 not only looked beautiful, but also showed impressive results on the track. From 1970 to 1973, the model competed in dozens of races, including:

  • 🏁 East African Safari Rally (1971) - crew victory Edgar Herrmann / Hans Schüller on Datsun 240Z with number 18.
  • 🏍️ 24 Hours of Daytona (1972) — 6th place in the GTU class (out of 60 participants).
  • 🇯🇵 Japanese Grand Prix (1971–1972) — victories in the GT-II class.

The secret of success was light weight (950 kg) and reliability. For example, on Safari Rally 240Z overtook Porsche 911 And Ford Capri thanks to better handling on unpaved areas. Racers noted that the car could easily withstand long-term loads without breakdowns - a rare quality for that time.

Interestingly, many racing Fairlady Z had modified engines with an injection system EFI and reinforced brakes. Some examples were equipped 5-speed gearbox from Nissan Skyline GT-R, which gave an advantage on long straights.

How did Fairlady Z win the Safari Rally?

In 1971, the Nissan team prepared three 240Z for the Kenya Off-Road Marathon. The cars had reinforced suspensions, additional fuel tanks and crankcase protection. Pilot Edgar Herrmann chose a conservative strategy, avoiding risky overtaking, and finished first with a 20-minute lead over his nearest rival. This victory became a sensation - for the first time a Japanese car won such a prestigious competition.

How much does a Nissan Fairlady Z240 cost today and where to buy it?

Prices for Fairlady Z240 vary greatly depending on condition, originality and history. Here are the estimated prices for 2026:

Condition Price (USD) Where to look
Restoration project (rusty body, no engine) $5 000 – $15 000 eBay Motors, Facebook Marketplace, local showdowns
Running condition (requires cosmetic repairs) $20 000 – $40 000 Bring a Trailer, ClassicCars.com
Restored (original engine, rust free body) $50 000 – $80 000 Specialized auctions (RM Sotheby’s), classic car dealers
Competition condition (full restoration, documentation) $100 000 – $200 000+ Gooding & Company, Bonhams
Rare versions (432, Racing) $250 000 – $500 000+ Closed auctions, private collections

Best search sites:

  • 🌐 Japan — Goo-Net Exchange, CarSensor (many original Fairlady, but high export prices).
  • 🇺🇸 USA — Bring a Trailer, Hemmings (the largest selection, but there are many “repainted” copies).
  • 🇪🇺 Europe — Mobile.de, ClassicDriver (rare examples, often with rally history).

When purchasing, pay attention to documentation. Original Japanese cars have Shaken (technical inspection certificate), and American - Title with owner history. Without these documents, the risk of running into a stolen or damaged car increases significantly.

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Before purchasing, be sure to order an independent examination (for example, through JDM Inspection for Japanese cars or Classic Car Appraisal Network for American ones). This will save you thousands of dollars in hidden problems.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Nissan Fairlady Z240

❓ Why was the Fairlady Z240 called differently in Japan than in the USA?

In Japan the model was sold as Nissan Fairlady Z (title taken from the musical "My Fair Lady"), and was exported under the brand Datsun (a subsidiary of Nissan for foreign markets). It was part of a marketing strategy - a brand Datsun was already known in the USA thanks to the models 510 And 240Z.

❓ Is it possible to install a modern engine in the Fairlady Z240?

Yes, this is a popular modification. Most often installed:

  • RB25DET (from Nissan Skyline R33) - power up to 300 hp, but requires modification to the suspension.
  • VQ35DE (from Nissan 350Z) - reliable and compact, but difficult to install due to electronics.
  • SR20DET (from Silvia S14) - a budget option, but less powerful.

Important: a swap will require replacing the gearbox, brake system, and possibly modifying the side members.

❓ What oil to pour into the L24 engine?

For the original L24 semi-synthetic oil recommended 10W-40 or 20W-50 (depending on climate). Popular brands:

  • Penrite HPR 20W-60 (for hot climates)
  • Castrol GTX 20W-50 (universal option)
  • Valvoline VR1 10W-40 (for temperate climates)

Oil volume - 5.5 liters (including filter). Change every 3,000–5,000 km, as older engines are more sensitive to the quality of the lubricant.

❓ Where can I find spare parts for Fairlady Z240?

Main sources:

  • Specialized stores: Z Car Depot (USA), Black Dragon Auto Works (Australia) Z Therapy (Japan).
  • Forums: ClassicZcars.com, HybridZ.org — used parts are often sold there.
  • Universal donors: some parts fit from Nissan 510, Skyline C10 or 280Z.

Tip: Before purchasing, check compatibility by VIN number - details for Japanese and American versions may differ.

❓ Is Fairlady Z240 worth buying as an investment?

Yes, but with reservations. Prices for Fairlady Z240 are growing steadily (by 10–15% per year), but only for:

  • Original copies with documentation.
  • Models with rare options (432, Z-L).
  • Cars with racing history.

If you are purchasing a restoration project, expect a long payback period (5+ years). The main risk is fakes and hidden body defects.