karkrub

Karkrub Review

Specs of the car:
The 1973 Datsun 240Z 2.4 Coupe, also known as the Fairlady Z in Japan, came powered by a naturally aspirated inline-six engine (L24) that churned out approximately 151 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque. It was mated to a 4-speed manual transmission. The car weighed around 2,355 lbs (1,068 kg), allowing for a sprightly 0-60 mph time of about 8 seconds. Its top speed was claimed to be close to 125 mph. It also featured independent suspension on all four wheels, with MacPherson struts in the front and Chapman struts in the rear.

History of the model:
Introduced in 1969, the Datsun 240Z was Nissan’s answer to the rising demand for affordable sports cars, especially in the U.S. market. The 240Z was a combination of style, performance, and affordability, a trifecta that made it a massive success. The car quickly became a hit in the United States, outselling its competitors and establishing a solid footing for Japanese sports cars.

Development of the model:
The 240Z was developed under the leadership of Yutaka Katayama, known as “Mr. K”, the president of Nissan USA at the time. He believed in creating a sports car that was both accessible and thrilling. The car’s design, led by Albrecht Goertz, was influenced by European sports cars of the era but with distinctive Japanese touches. The 240Z’s success led to the evolution of the Z-car series with later models like the 260Z and 280Z.

Journalist reviews at the time of release:
When the 240Z was introduced, it was met with widespread acclaim from automotive journalists. It was often lauded for its combination of performance, style, and value. Magazines like Car and Driver and Road & Track praised its handling dynamics, smooth inline-six engine, and its competitive price point. Some reviews noted its potential to outshine European competitors, as the 240Z offered similar or even superior performance for a fraction of the price.

Types of modifications typically done:
The Datsun 240Z quickly became a favorite among car enthusiasts and racers. Common modifications include engine swaps or upgrades, often replacing the stock L24 with more powerful variants like the L28 from the 280Z or even turbocharged setups. Suspension upgrades to improve handling were common, with coilovers and upgraded sway bars. Given the car’s racing pedigree, many owners also opted for racing seats, roll cages, and upgraded brake systems. On the aesthetic side, fender flares, aftermarket wheels, and custom paint jobs were quite popular. As the 240Z was a favorite in the racing scene, aerodynamic modifications such as front air dams, rear spoilers, and even widebody kits became prevalent.

In conclusion, the 1973 Datsun 240Z stands as an iconic representation of Japanese sports car history. Its fusion of style, performance, and affordability paved the way for future generations of the Z-car lineage and cemented its place as a beloved classic.

Karkrub Score:

Design: 9/10
The 240Z was a revelation in the early 1970s, showcasing a sleek and modern silhouette that was both aerodynamic and aesthetically appealing. Its long hood, fastback design, and compact rear gave it an aggressive yet refined stance. Influences from both European and Japanese car design are evident, resulting in a car that was ahead of its time.

Power: 8/10
Powered by a naturally aspirated L24 inline-six engine, the 240Z produced 151 horsepower. While this might not seem substantial by today’s standards, it was respectable during its era. The lightweight nature of the 240Z combined with this power output ensured that it delivered a brisk performance.

Fun: 9/10
With rear-wheel drive, a balanced chassis, and a responsive engine, the 240Z was and still is a joy to drive. It offers a raw and authentic driving experience that’s hard to come by in modern vehicles. The 240Z’s mechanical simplicity means drivers feel closely connected to the road.

Comfort: 7/10
While the 240Z was primarily a sports car, it was decently appointed for its era. The cabin was minimalist but comfortable, offering adequate space for two occupants. The ride was firmer than that of a luxury car, expected of a sporty coupe, but not unbearably so. However, longer journeys might leave something to be desired in terms of modern comfort standards.

Reliability: 7.5/10
Japanese cars of this era were generally known for their reliability, and the 240Z was no exception. The engine and major components were robust. However, as with many cars from this period, rust could be an issue, especially in regions with harsh weather conditions.

Safety: 6/10
By contemporary standards, the 240Z’s safety features were basic. It lacked many of the safety advancements and technologies that became standard in later decades. However, for its time, the 240Z was on par with many of its competitors. Its structure was reasonably solid, but without modern crumple zones, airbags, or advanced braking systems, it falls short in this category by today’s standards.

Value: 10/10
One of the standout features of the 240Z was its exceptional value proposition. Offering the performance, design, and handling of European sports cars at a fraction of the price, the 240Z was an instant hit, especially in markets like the US. Its affordability combined with its capabilities made it a game-changer in the automotive world.

Average Score: 8.1/10

In summary, the 1973 Datsun 240Z 2.4 Coupe remains an iconic and cherished model in automotive history. Its strengths in design, fun factor, and value proposition were undeniable, making it a favorite among enthusiasts and setting a benchmark for future sports cars. While it may not match up to modern standards in safety and, to an extent, comfort, its legacy as a groundbreaking sports car is undiminished.