1973 Datsun 240Z - MZR Roadsports

KEY FACTS

• This Datsun 240Z is a striking example of the classic Japanese coupe, benefitting from an extensive ‘back to bare shell’ documented programme of restoration and development by marque specialist MZR Roadsports.
• The original engine has been replaced by a fully rebuilt and enhanced 2.8-litre straight-six for a period-appropriate increase in torque and horsepower, driving the rear wheels via a reconditioned rebuilt S13-generation Nissan 200SX five-speed manual gearbox and AP Suretrac limited-slip differential.
• The build was based around a solid Californian LHD shell, converted to RHD, with MZR Roadsports lavishing its attention to detail on all aspects of the project to create a more usable performance car that retains the 240Z’s iconic looks and character.
• The car was imported into the UK and first registered with the DVLA in June 2016.
• The odometer indicates 5,542 miles, which the seller notes is the distance covered since the completion of the restoration.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• The Datsun 240Z is finished in the timeless hue of MZR Heritage Green, over a custom black leather and velour-trimmed interior with the green door card piping complementing the forest green Wilton carpet.
• The build started with a solid 1973 Californian shell, which MZR Roadsports professionally converted to right-hand drive using original Nissan parts. It was taken back to bare metal, seam sealed and resprayed in a polyurethane paint in the bespoke hue of MZR Heritage Green. A Dinitrol cavity and underfloor treatment was carried out during the build to prevent future issues, soundproofing was applied throughout the cabin area to reduce vibration and noise, and a new windscreen was fitted along with exceptionally rare factory option headlamp covers and genuine Nissan wing mirrors after being re-chromed. The car received full weatherstrip and seal replacement throughout and was fitted with re-chromed front and rear bumpers.
• It rides on refurbished 15-inch Maxlite alloy wheels finished in metallic grey with diamond-cut rimes, fitted with Yokohama Advan Fleva tyres, reportedly fitted in September 2023.
• The cabin features an original unmarked and uncracked dashboard with its signature cowled instrument dials and centre auxiliary gauges, a classically styled head unit with Bluetooth, hands-free and an electric aerial, a Moto-Lita steering wheel and matching gear knob with the correct ‘Z’ logo appearing on each, bucket seats on adjustable rails, a new roof lining, and a new centre console, door cards and inertia reel seatbelts.
• A 2.8 period correct Datsun engine was installed in place of the original 2.4-litre item. The unit and ancillaries were fully reconditioned, including being acid dipped, the crank was re-ground, and the block re-bored. The head features polished valves and bronze guides, and the motor was reassembled using Fel-Pro gaskets. The engine has been fitted with an uprated oil pump and stainless-steel swirl pot, and an uprated modern alternator. The Hitachi ‘SU style’ carburettors were stripped, rebuilt and specially adapted to suit the larger capacity engine, and all fasteners and fixings are zinc plated. A 6-2-1 Kameari-style manifold was fabricated in stainless steel along with the matching sports exhaust.
• A Nissan S13 gearbox was chosen for its strength and to make use of five speeds. The unit was fully reconditioned with all new seals and bearings. It was installed with an MZR Roadsports modified bell housing, a new flywheel and a new three-piece clutch. A new AP Suretrac LSD was installed, and the original UJ driveshafts were removed and replaced with a more reliable and responsive CVJ driveshaft conversion. A 3.54:1 differential ratio was specified to offer an optimal balance between responsiveness and motorway cruising.
• All suspension components were stripped, blasted, and powder-coated in satin black for longevity, and polyurethane bushes were installed throughout. New Eibach progressive coil springs were fitted to Tokico HP sport dampers, and an uprated anti-roll bar was fitted to assist handling.
• An automatic load-sensing power steering system is fitted, which tightens up at higher speeds but assists with low-speed manoeuvring.
• A new wiring, lighting and relay system was installed along with a modernised fuse box incorporating blade fuses. The column switches were rebuilt, and a wiper motor upgrade was installed to allow intermittent wiper control. The lights were upgraded to halogen units to assist with nighttime visibility, and a battery isolator was installed to be used over the winter period and as a security feature. All fasteners and fixings have been replated, and even the working inspection lamp has been restored.
• The Datsun is accompanied by a hardback build diary documenting all the work, official MZR Roadsports catalogue that outlines its original build specification, a CD containing further pictures documenting the build, the V5C, and various MOT certificates and build notes and service invoices.

CONDITION

• Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition.
• The car’s last MOT test was conducted on 23 January 2019 at an indicated 3,558 miles, which resulted in a first-time pass with no advisories.

SERVICE HISTORY

• This 240Z’s most recent maintenance was carried out in February 2026 at an indicated 5,542 miles by CKL Developments Ltd, and reportedly included engine oil, gearbox oil, differential oil, brake fluid, coolant spark plug and battery replacements. The seller notes that the car was thoroughly checked over from top to bottom with compression and leak down tests, all were healthy as expected, and adjustments to throttle linkage setup, camber, castor and toe angles with a carburettor tune and setup on the rolling road.
• In September 2021, a service was carried out by MZR Roadsports. This included a full service, the rectification of a slight vibration, a front and rear brake system strip down and service with new discs and drums fitted, the gearbox and flywheel were removed and new clutch and flywheel fitted, new spark plugs were fitted, and the car received an engine oil and oil filter change and a transmission fluid change.
• MZR Roadsports previously serviced the car in February 2017 and June 2016.
• Other notable maintenance includes the alloy wheels being refurbished in January 2026.

SUMMARY

This Datsun 240Z is a stunning example of the breed, benefitting from an extensive documented programme of restoration and development by marque specialist MZR Roadsports. The build was based around a solid Californian shell with MZR lavishing its renowned attention to detail on all aspects of the project to deliver an impressive and bespoke coupe. The seller notes that the car is well suited to both city and open-road driving. It would make an exciting addition to any collection, as well as an involving and capable companion for weekend drives and classic car shows.

Descriptions are provided by the seller and, to their knowledge, are accurate and not misleading. Buyers must satisfy themselves of the description’s accuracy, and independent research is strongly advised. Enquiries should be raised in the comments section and any inspections arranged before bidding.

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