The Datsun 240Z was produced in the Japanese Nissan factory between 1970
and 1973. The 2-seater car was designed by Yoshihiko Matsuo, the head
of Nissan’s Sports Car Styling Studio.The 1970 models received the L24
2.4 litre engine with a manual choke and a 4-speed manual gearbox. It
was also to become available with a 5-speed manual gearbox and from
1971, a 3-speed automatic version was another option.
The Datsun 240Z
was the first generation of Nissan’s Z GT two-seater coupé motors and
its sporty appearance with its distinctive slanted back was an instant
hit both in the company’s prime US market as well as the UK, where the
240Z’s modern design, relatively low price and growing accessibility
through an extending dealership network, made it doubly attractive. It
was a particular favourite with the young male drivers of the day,
providing a great deal of ‘street cred’ at an affordable price! The 1970
240Z, known as the Series 1, was introduced first to the American
market by Yutaka Katayama, president of Nissan Motors USA operations.
Small design and style changes were to be introduced subsequently
throughout the production period of the car.
Oxford's replica of this
original Datsun 240Z is registered AWU 491K from 1970/71. The detailed
interior is black. The exterior on this second release is different from
DAT001 as it features subtle details which were relevant in real life
to the cars aimed at the UK market, including a spoiler on the boot, UK
front indicators, the UK right hand drive dashboard, UK bumpers without
over-riders and UK right hand drive windscreen positioning. The Datsun
240Z badge sits on the front of the bonnet with the name printed
diagonally in silver across the side of the boot.