The iconic Nissan Z-car has been around for an impressive 55 years and seven distinct generations. It has always been known for its “performance vs. price,” value-oriented proposition. Featured on AutoHunter is this 1973 Datsun 240Z. It is being sold by a dealer in Apopka, Florida, and the auction will end on Friday, November 21, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. (MST).
With a $4,695 retail price, the 1973 Z was about a grand cheaper than a base Chevrolet Corvette, and while it had only half as many cylinders, it came at a time when the oil crisis made fuel economy an important factor for many buyers. The Z also boasted a lightweight chassis and a tuned suspension, both of which made it feel balanced and “tossable” whether it was on the street or at the track.
The Z first went into production in 1969 for the 1970 model year at Nissan’s Shatai assembly plant, and was marketed in Japan as the “Fairlady” Z. The design had been drawn by Yoshihiko Matsuo, who at the time was the head of Nissan’s sports car styling studio. The first iteration/chassis would become known as the S30, which stayed in production until 1978.
Exterior features of this Charcoal Metallic ’73 240Z include chrome trim, rear window louvers, Kumho tires, and a single-exit exhaust. The long hood and fastback silhouette give the car an aerodynamic edge. Moving to the interior, the intimate, two-seat cockpit features reconditioned bucket seats, air conditioning, a wood shift knob, and a Pioneer stereo system. The Z’s content list was lengthy for a simple two-seat sports car, and that was part of why, in marketing materials, the Z was promoted for its multi-dimensional appeal. “The Best of Both Possible Worlds,” one advertisement said. “Datsun delivers the pleasures of distinguished elegance and the excitement of true sports car performance. Datsun makes leading the double life exciting.”
Under the hood of this well-kept example is an L24 2.4-liter inline-six fed by twin Zenith SU carburetors. Datsun rated the car at 150 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque for 1973. The car’s odometer says 72,697 miles, although the title reads mileage-exempt. The original wheel covers and air cleaner will come with the sale, which means a true Nissan purist out there can reinstall those items for a more stock look.
Fifty-plus years after production, the original Z-cars still hold their ground as enthusiast favorites. If you have been considering a foray into owning one, click over and throw your hat in the ring on this clean machine.
The auction for this 1973 Datsun 240Z ends on Friday, November 21, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. (MST).
Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery