Left behind in Idaho: ’71 Datsun 240Z

We really like an original, unmodified early 240Z. For some reason, many became a blank canvas for owners who took liberties with what Datsun engineers thought was perfect. Let’s face it, the folks at Jaguar, Alfa and Porsche do not look back to 1970 with fond memories. That was the year Datsun lowered the boom and introduced the 240Z. It had derivative but pleasant styling, a smooth inline-6 and at a great price. With a top speed of 125 mph, it was no slouch either. What the Z-car did was turn people’s heads around when it came to their opinion of Japanese cars. This one featured today looks like a winner. The original owner was an older gentleman from Idaho. He insisted on A/C and the kits for the Z weren’t ready yet. The dealer service department worked their magic and modified a system to fit. The car was passed to a single woman who drove it daily in the favorable dry desert climate of Idaho. When she got married, she required a larger car. She put the Z in storage back in 1978. She moved to Pennsylvania leaving the Z behind only to return 27 years later. She brought it back to Pennsylvania and got it road worthy again with little effort and passed the torch to the current seller. The car, save for one repaint, is amazingly original and that is a tribute to all who have gone before. This is a “no buts” car. Everything, including the clock, functions. Hagerty values #3 cars at around $12,000 and #2 cars at $21,000. We will wager after close inspection this might be a #3 car. But you have to consider originality and the unbroken chain of ownership. So the $17,995 asking price isn’t unreasonable. You know what they say – find another one. Click here for the Craigslist ad.