Car 23. David Gainer (AUS) / Kerry Finn (AUS) 1972 Datsun 240Z
Car 23. David Gainer (AUS) / Kerry Finn (AUS) 1972 Datsun 240Z
Datsun

Datsun 240Z: High Performance from an Affordable Sports Car

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In October 1969, a sleek new two-door sports car was presented at the Pierre Hotel, New York in front of the Detroit Press and Automotive Media that would inevitably create history. The new Datsun 240Z was breathtakingly beautiful and combined performance and handling that matched or outstripped much more expensive competitors from Alfa Romeo to Porsche.

Nissan had noticed a gap in the car market for a coupe sports car that would be made reliable and affordable to the masses. Initally they projected sales of 3,000 units per month, something that the Nissan upper management thought wildly optimistic. However at its peak, sales would total 7,500 a month, with demand outstripping supply.

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