Note - I don't actually plan on buying a 240Z anytime soon. I've discovered how much insurance on my existing fleet (Altima, G35) is, and that as well as space concerns are likely to prevent me from dabbling in this enterprise for a few years.
I've been toying with the idea of another car. Yes, another car. What can I say. I love cars!
This time it's a Datsun Z, first series, in either 240, 260 or 280. I've yet to decide what I'd get, although an early 240Z is obviously the best choice due to its increased power and performance over the later, emissions crippled models. The original '70-'72 240Zs would run 0-60mph in 7 seconds!
So, the plan, as I've rationalised it, would be something as follows. Buy G35 Coupe. Drive that around for a while (say, a year) while learning about Z cars. Save up around $7k-8k or so for the purchase of a good straight Z. Obviously not getting concours class condition for that money but still it should be a nice car. Spend time making the Z sparkle. I've seen custom interiors that look real sharp with wooden steering wheels, etc. Good old classic sportscar looks.
Why a Z? Well, I had considered a 350Z instead of the G35 Coupe I now plan on buying. But I decided they were too impractical, and a little too oddly styled for my liking. The 70s Zs have classic good looks, the interior is awesome (I like round gauges), and the car sounds like it has excellent performance for an old car. Plus, there are lots of them around, they seem reasonably priced, parts are available also at reasonable prices. All in all, it sounds like a good weekend fun-tourer.
Parameters: I'm a sucker for the "classic sportscar" look, so wire wheels would be nice. There are lots of good 70s style wheel options around though so who knows. A nice gold, black, or orange would be appealing. I understand though that there aren't any early series black models though so hrm. Would like a 240Z if all possible. The model least abused by various US regulations (bumpers, emissions, etc).
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