1973 Datsun 240z

You’re looking at a 1973 Datsun 240Z that somehow dodged every hazard classic cars usually face—rust, bad taste, and the urge to “modernize.” This thing is the real deal: fully documented from new and more original than your friend who still listens to vinyl because “it just sounds better.”

Originally sold by Keegan Imports in sunny San Jose, California back in July of ‘73, this Z stayed with its first owner for a whopping 44 years. That’s longer than most marriages. In 2017, she passed the keys to the next caretaker, who—like many second marriages—only lasted about 7 months before parting ways.

From there, it landed in the hands of an East Coast 240Z collector (a very good friend to have, by the way). He fixed a tiny ding, had Datsun Spirit work their tuning magic, and enjoyed it before thinning the herd.

That’s where I came in. I bought a five-car package from him, but this 240Z? This one’s been my keeper. And after 15 years in the restoration business, trust me—nothing compares to a car that’s truly original. They are, as we say in the biz, only original once.

With just over 65,000 miles, this Z is a proper time capsule. The original paint? Still excellent. The interior? Also excellent—and yes, the dash is crack-free (a minor miracle in Z-land). The engine bay and chassis have been dry ice cleaned—not because we needed to hide anything, but because this car deserves to sparkle.

I’ve spent the last few years dialing it in, buttoning up every little detail. What you’re seeing here is arguably one of the best, no-nonsense, original 240Zs still roaming the earth.

Early Japanese classics like this rarely make it through five decades without being modified, wrecked, or rusted into oblivion. But thanks to a dry climate, a devoted first owner, and a chain of caring enthusiasts, this one didn’t just survive—it thrived.

So, if you’ve been holding out for the one… this might just be your soulmate in sheet metal.