The Fairlady Z was introduced in Japan in 1969, one year ahead of the US market 240Z. It was offered with 3 engine options, the 2.0 and 2.4 lter SOHC, with 125 and 140 horsepower respectively. And the rare Z432 DOHC engine with 150 horsepower. All three were inline sixes.
White exterior with black vinyl interior
Right hand drive
Fender mounted mirrors
2.0 Liter Inline six with 125 horsepower
Twin Hitachi SUV Carburetors
Five Speed manual transmission
Twin stacked exhaust muffler
14 inch black steel wheels
Tokico Shock Absorbers
Eibach Springs
Nismo steering wheel and shifter
Passenger foot rest
NOS Fairlady Z floor mats
Citizen clock with Date and stopwatch function
In 2010, this car was exhibited by Enkei wheels at the 2010 SEMA show, to showcase its new line of retro styled wheels. Then, in 2015 it was purchased by Jay Ataka, the owner of JDM Car Parts and Restorations. Over a multi year restoration, he subsequently stripped the car to bare metal, and repainted the car in white. The engine was overhauled, and a replacement 5 speed transmission installed. The suspension and braking systems were overhauled at this time, and Tokico shocks and Eibach springs installed to increase road holding.
Following completion of the project in 2022, the car won 1st place at the Japanese Classic Car Show in the 240Z category. Then, in 2023 it won best of Show at the Petersen Automotive Museum’s Japanese Cruise In car show. Also, it was featured on two episodes of Jay Leno’s Garage, including one with Brie Larsen when she was the spokesperson for the new Z.
The car is masterfully restored, and runs and drives like a new car. To start it, turn the ignition on and pump the gas pedal 3 times. Raise the choke lever and turn the key. The engine fires right up and settles into a high idle of 1,500 rpms.
The clutch is positive and has just enough pedal pressure, engaging first gear precisely. Once moving , the car is a delight to shift. Precise and just enough throw for a sports car. The Nismo shifter feels tight. The exhaust note is distinctly “Z”. The wonderful inline six is smooth, and has a great power band. Although down 15 horsepower from a 2.4 liter , you hardly notice it as the engine easily propels the lightweight of the Z.
Interior wise, everything looks and feels like new. It even has that distinct vinyl smell I can remember as a kid when I would climb in and out of the Datsun’s at my Dad’s dealership in the 1970’s.
Some cool, and unique Fairlady features are the optional passenger footrest bar, the Citizen Quartz clock with Date and stopwatch feature, and the optional Nismo leather wrapped steering wheel.
For me, the Z has always captivated my imagination. A beautiful design , the styling has power and grace. My favorite view is from the rear 3/4.
Still today, it looks fantastic . Better than many new cars. They really came up with a timeless design, and although prices have increased, it is still affordable compared to many other classic sports cars.