Sell Your Datsun

240Z, 260Z, and 280Z: the S30 Z series

The Datsun Z series (S30 chassis, 1969-1978) is the iconic Japanese sports car that brought international success. The 240Z (1969-1973), with its 2.4-litre L24 straight-six, long bonnet, and short rear deck, designed by Yoshihiko Matsuo, was a revolutionary combination: Italian styling, British roadster performance, Japanese reliability, and a price no one could match. The 260Z (1974) and 280Z (1975-1978) brought greater displacement and modernisations, including a 2+2 specification. On classic markets, early S30s are often undervalued because the subtler differences between Series I (1969-1971), Series II (1971-1973), and later specifications are not familiar to every buyer.

The auction format brings together connoisseurs who recognise these details. An original 240Z Series I in factory colour (Datsun Yellow 905, Safari Gold 906, or Spectre Red 904) with provably original paint and complete ownership history can command a significant premium. At Octane your Z receives the editorial attention befitting its place in Japanese sports car history.

Datsun 510: the Trans Am rebel

The Datsun 510 (1968-1973, also known as Bluebird in Japan and some other markets) is another chapter in the Datsun story. With its rectangular lines, light four-cylinder L16 engine, and rear-wheel drive, the 510 was used in the US by Peter Brock's BRE team to win the 1971 and 1972 SCCA Trans Am Championship (2.5-litre class). For Japan enthusiasts the 510 is an underrated collector class, with the SSS and SR specifications in original condition as the most sought-after.

For Octane, international presentation of a 510 SSS or a BRE replica with proven provenance brings together buyers who know the motorsport heritage of the car. An original Datsun 510 in unblemished colour with proven matching numbers and complete service history is highly attractive to collectors.

Fairlady Roadster, Sunny, and the lesser-known Datsuns

The Datsun Fairlady SR311 (1967-1970), with its 2.0-litre U20 four-cylinder and 135 hp, was Japan's answer to the MGB and Triumph Spitfire. The earlier SP310 and SPL311 are even rarer. The Datsun Sunny (B110, B210) in coupé form with the A14 or A15 engine has built its own collector market, especially as JDM import. The Datsun 620 and 720 pickup trucks are increasingly valued as utility classics.

For sellers of these lesser-known Datsuns, international buyer reach is essential. Octane brings together collectors who recognise specific specifications and are prepared to bid accordingly. A Fairlady SR311 in original specification with JDM import documentation can be a beautiful addition for Z collectors.

Rust: the most important concern

Classic Datsuns rust in known spots. On 240Z/260Z/280Z, buyers focus on the battery tray (a notoriously known spot), the wing roots (front and rear), floor pans, sills, and the area under the rear bumper. On Datsun 510, wheel arches and the A-pillar are critical. On Fairlady Roadster, the frame rails under the doors and the wings are points of attention. For both JDM imports and US imports: a Datsun with provably professional restoration and complete body work documentation can command a significant premium.

Engine and mechanicals by model

• L24, L26, L28 (Z series): 2.4, 2.6, and 2.8-litre SOHC straight-six with SU/Hitachi carburettors (early Zs) or fuel injection (280Z). Robust when maintained. Ask about head gasket history, oil pressure readings, and originality of the carburettor setup.
• L16, L18 (510, 620, early 720): 1.6 and 1.8 four-cylinder. Simple and reliable. Ask about cambelt history and SU carburettor condition.
• U20 (Fairlady SR311): 2.0 SOHC four-cylinder with twin Solex carburettors or optional dual SUs. Specialist servicing required given parts rarity.
• A14, A15 (Sunny coupe): 1.4 and 1.5 four-cylinder. Robust when maintained; good parts supply via Japan and US specialists.
• Gearboxes: most classic Datsuns have 4-speed or 5-speed manual. A Z with original 5-speed (especially 280Z) is worth more than a 4-speed or automatic.

Originality, JDM import, and factory documentation

For Datsuns, JDM versus US specification is an important factor. A 240Z USA-spec has federal bumpers and emissions exhausts; a JDM Fairlady Z has chrome bumpers and original specification. Both markets exist; documentation of origin is decisive. For BRE replicas with proven BRE provenance or period-correct racing specification, documentation via Peter Brock archives is essential. An original 240Z Series I in factory colour with proven matching numbers (L24 engine with correct prefix, original R-160 differential) is highly attractive to collectors.

Heritage documentation and provenance

For classic Datsuns, the Nissan Heritage Collection in Zama (Japan) offers historical information on request. The Datsun 240Z Registry in the US has extensive chassis archives and ownership history databases. For the most sought-after Datsuns (early 240Z Series I, 510 SSS, Fairlady SR311), confirmation via these registries is a strong selling point. For Datsuns imported from the US to Europe, documentation of Californian 'rust-free' origin and BPM import is clearly relevant.