Checklist

BODY & CHASSIS

Cars that were ‘restored’ some time ago when values didn’t justify comprehensive rust removal can be harbouring a range of nasties. If the doors droop and are hard to close the problem might be worn hinge pins. It could also be that the mounting points have weakened due to rust. Feel inside the wheelarches and window surrounds for bubbling, look above and below floor-pans for rust and be wary of a hatch that is difficult to close or is letting in water and exhaust fumes. Door skins and rust repair sections are available but rusted door apertures, firewall, floor-pans and the turret must be remade at significant expense. Body rubber kits for two-door cars cost around $1000. Reproduction bumpers are available at around $500 each, but inspect before buying to ensure acceptable quality.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

Six-cylinder Nissan engines are simple and durable. Listen for valve train rattle (not too serious) or low-frequency bearing rumbles which indicate an impending rebuild. Some engines will have been modified and developing significantly more power than standard. Triple-carburettor cars can present tuning issues and those with turbochargers will need specific maintenance and uprated cooling. Underbonnet accessories can mostly be replaced or repaired, however items like the genuine Hitachi carburettors and the electronic ignition are difficult to locate. Exchange, warranted five-speed gearboxes are available for under $1000.

SUSPENSION & BRAKES

Z Cars suffered some steering vagueness, however more than 30mm of slop at the top of the wheel, binding or cracking noises when turning are not normal. Shortened springs, stiffer bushings and mismatched shock absorbers make cars suitable for specific uses but if you want something that’s a good all-rounder avoid those with more extreme set-ups. If the ride is harsh on relatively smooth roads it could be perfect for ‘track’ days, less so if you do some rural running. The front disc/rear drum brakes were marginal even in 1970 and some owners added discs to the rear.

INTERIOR & ELECTRICS

Z dash-tops may come with moulded mats that conceal cavernous cracks. If you’re happy to leave them that way then replacing the cover costs around $300, however a complete second-hand RHD dash in decent order will cost up to $1500. Reproduction door trims are available but expensive, so too are window runners and other door internals. Reconditioned 240Z trafficator and light / wiper switches cost around A$300 from the USA and new seat coverings sell locally for around $500 per side.