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LONG TERM Octane readers might recognise this 240Z. It first appeared in issue 99, back in 2011, and it’s one that I’ve had a particular desire to drive ever since. It belongs to Nissan UK’s heritage fleet, and I recently found myself in possession of the keys for an evening. Excellent.
As an affordable 1970s sports car, the 240Z re-wrote the rulebook and changed the world’s view on Japanese cars forever. Although no longer cheap as such, a good Zed is still relatively affordable, and I’m intrigued to see just how much fun it actually is.
First impressions are everything, and one of the things that has always attracted me to the 240Z is the way it looks. You can see where some of the inspiration has come from, but it’s not derivative and it cut its own style. Nissan’s car has been well-used over the years, but a fairly recent restoration means it’s still fighting fit, and it’s in standard spec apart from the three big Webers under the bonnet.
Settling into the low seat, you appreciate how far back the driver actually sits. And with no rear seat to worry about, the driving position is almost perfect too, with a great view over the curvaceous dashboard and long bonnet. It takes a minute to get the cold engine idling cleanly, and it’s a little rough for the first few miles too, but those Webers have not been set-up for pottering.
The 2.4-litre straight-six pulls well from low revs, with power building gently round the tachometer. The engine really sings at higher speeds, which is useful as the Webers work best at full throttle. Nissan claimed the 240Z would sprint to 60mph in 8.0sec and on to 125mph, and it certainly feels quick enough. Although it’s maybe a little worn, the gearbox is still a joy, too. It requires a firm and assertive hand, but it’s a pleasing shift, rewarding you with five perfectly spaced ratios.
W hile the steering is quite heavy to begin with, it becomes more manageable as the speed increases – the narrow-rimmed wooden wheel transmits plenty of feedback. Take a fairly neutral stance through mid- and high-speed corners and the handling inspires confidence, and, although the suspension is
firm, it reacts over mid-corner lumps surprisingly well.
As a package the 240Z really comes together on the open road. I can completely understand why this Japanese coupé caused the likes of MG and Triumph a serious headache when it was launched, and that’s still relevant today. It moved the game on considerably, and it makes a cool alternative to the more traditional classic sports cars. I really didn’t want to give the keys back.