Makes and Models: Datsun

During the era of muscle cars, the term “Japanese sports car” was often met with ridicule. However, the Japanese company was able to overcome this stereotype and achieve legendary status in the American market. The 280Z, part of its Z series, came to represent its creators’ determination and resilience.

Source: AutoEvolution

Most classic automobile enthusiasts associate the Japanese sports vehicle with something relatively modern, with a moderately sized turbocharged engine. The “old school” sports car concept refers to the American auto industry with its legendary Ford or Chevy muscle cars. Meanwhile, Japan’s automotive industry produced remarkable sports vehicles that almost every classic collection today is chasing worldwide. Datsun brand’s Z series was such an example. The famous 280Z appeared only in the North American market and made a splash with its lightness, excellent handling, and remarkable speed.

The origins

Source: Daniel Schmitt & Co.

The Japanese auto industry is the personification of the Eastern philosophy of “rising from the ashes like a phoenix.” It was able to rise after a devastating war and defeat and conquer Western markets with its innovation, flexibility, and phenomenal performance. In the early seventies, Nissan Motor Corporation found great success selling its Fairlady Z in the United States. Nissan in North America went on sale under the Datsun brand. Nissan’s first successful vehicle appeared in the market as Datsun 240Z. With this model, the Japanese company paved the way for Japanese automakers to enter the American market and compete with British, German, and even Italian automobiles of the sports class. Thus, the Z series became a symbol of the persistence of the Japanese automobile industry. The brand started its journey to auto Olympus from the very bottom. At the very beginning, no one, not even the Japanese, believed in the success of the sports vehicle brand. But the Japanese company fulfilled and even exceeded the plan. The name Fairlady was taken from the Broadway play My Fair Lady, which  Nissan director Katsuji Kawamata attended. So, the first super-fast Fairlady appeared in the 1960s, which was not officially classified as part of the Nissan Z line. Later, in 1969, the Nissan Fairlady Z (S30) became the debutant of the legendary Z dynasty. It had two configurations – a 2-liter engine with 130 or 160 hp power versions for the Japanese market. A more powerful  2.4 liters and 150 hp version went to the USA. Against the backdrop of locally produced sports vehicles, this super-fast vehicle stood out for its more affordable price, stylish appearance, and excellent technical characteristics. It was a real sensation! In 1975, the 280Z and 280ZX entered the market with a 2.8-liter engine and 180 hp. The models looked more luxurious and modern than their predecessors and had more elegant interiors and aerodynamic bodies. Accordingly, new generations came out with updates, which always found their customers overseas. Undoubtedly, the history of the Nissan Fairlady Z is legendary. Today, the Z series is far from being affordable. However, it won its place under the sun long ago and continues to strive for excellence.

The 1977 model year

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The Datsun 280Z entered the U.S. market in 1975 and was available until 1978.

The first thing that drew the attention of the 1977 release was its design. The long bonnet, thin tail, and sloping roofline were proportions significantly different from the big muscle cars of the time. The 1977 release also increased in size and received U.S. federally mandated bumpers. In 1977 Datsun 280Z received a 2.8-liter 6-cylinder engine and 149 hp with Bosch fuel injection. From 0 to 60mph, it reached in just 7.8 seconds. The top speed of this “muscle car killer” was 130 mph (210 km/h). In 1977, the automobile received magnetic wheel covers, a five-speed manual transmission, and a folding spare wheel. At the front, hood vents were simulated to replace the previous fender access openings. 

Did you know?

Source: Auto

In 1977, two limited edition Datsun 280Zs appeared. The first was “Zap Z,” with a “Special Decor Package,” painted in Sunshine Yellow and black stripes. The second one was the “Black Pearl” version with a “Special Appearance Package,” including unique sports mirrors, rear window spoilers, and two multi-colored stripes (red and silver). In total, about two thousand Zap Z and Black Pearl were produced.

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The automotive history of the Land of the Rising Sun had a lot of exciting specimens in its asset, which connoisseurs were chasing all over the world. One of these was the classic Datsun 260Z coupe.

Source: Historics Auctioneers

Most motorists are used to the fact that if you see a Japanese sports car on the road, it is most likely something relatively modern, with a moderately sized turbocharged engine. The concept of a classic “old school” sports car refers more to the American auto industry with its muscle cars like the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, and Dodge Challenger. Meanwhile, the automotive history of the Land of the Rising Sun also had a lot of exciting specimens in its asset, which connoisseurs were chasing all over the world. One of these was the classic Datsun 280Z coupe.

The origins

Source: WhichCar

The history of the Z series from the Japanese automaker was, first of all, another confirmation of the perseverance and hard work of the Japanese nation. In 1965, the words “Japanese sports car” caused a derisive smile on the faces of American and European motorists. However, after 5 years, these same “humorists” stood in line to enjoy a new vehicle with a mysterious “Z” emblem on the body. In 1966, the newly presented 240 Z had European style, American muscularity, Japanese quality, and global appeal. Its incredible story began back in 1966 when it was created by Fumio Yashida. Later, the 260Z and 280Z were introduced – modifications that represented Nissan’s attempt to offer full-fledged sports vehicles with characteristics worthy of the Datsun GT in the era of increasing government restrictions in the United States aimed at reducing harmful emissions and gasoline consumption after the global financial crisis of 1973. The term “Emissions Control” was synonymous with frustration for speed enthusiasts in the 1970s. Introduced in 1974, the next vehicle from the “Z series” followed the new rules. The power was reduced which led the engine to become slower. The magazine Road & Track claimed the engine “struggled” above 5,500 rpm. This model also featured new technology, such as a switchless transistor ignition system that boosted reliability and helped with emissions. The exterior of the 1974 release was affected as little as possible. In 1974, the automobile had discreet black rubber “growths” as part of the new bumper. To meet demand Nissan also added a 2+2 seat version to the model’s range, adding 30cm to the wheelbase and changing the roofline. Naturally, the back seats were much more suitable for children than for adults. Interestingly, most buyers preferred the two-seater version, but the 260Z 2 +2 showed that Nissan could do better than the best.

The 1974 model year

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In 1974, the 240Z model was replaced by the 260Z. As the name implied, the inline 6-cylinder engine was displaced to 2565 cc, but due to tight emission controls, it produced 140 hp. This was a sporty model with a streamlined body, longbow, and short stern, in the design of which some components from already manufactured products were used. Everyone could easily drive it and experience an amazing feeling of exultation from unity with the vehicle. Following federal safety regulations, the automobile received massive bumpers that could withstand a blow at a speed of 8 km/h without deformation. A 2 + 2 modification with a wheelbase extended to 2300 mm and additional seats for children joined the double coupe. The model also needed to redo the roofline, but the trunk lid with integrated glass remained at the back, like a hatchback. In the US, the Datsun 260Z was sold only in 1974, after which it was replaced by the more powerful Datsun 280Z. In Europe and Japan, Datsun 260Z with 162 hp engine was produced until 1978

Did you know?

Source: AutoEvolution

Starting with the 1974 Datsun 260Z, the company’s newer models were fitted with seat belts with an ignition interlock system that prevented the driver of the vehicle from starting the engine if the passengers’ seat belts were not fastened.

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