1971 Datsun 240Z — Should You Buy One?
Typical asking price: $28,000–$55,000. There is 1 high-severity known issue you need to know before handing over a check.
Kestrel Take
The Japanese classic that beat the Europeans at their own game — the 240Z's gorgeous long-hood shape, torquey inline-six, and sweet handling made it a legend, and values have climbed steadily. Rust is the enemy (these dissolve), and originality matters. A rust-free, honest, numbers-matching 240Z is a joy to drive and a genuinely appreciating classic; inspect the floors, frame rails, and rockers meticulously (rust is often hidden), and verify originality. A solid body is worth everything here.
What we checked
Checked against public records, 2026-09-25
Federal complaint records thin out badly before about 2000, so there is little here to check against. What follows is our own write-up. Treat a short list as us having less to go on, not as the vehicle having fewer faults.
Known Issues for the 1971 Datsun 240Z
Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents. How we decide that.
The 240Z rusts terribly, often hidden — floors, frame rails, rockers, doglegs, and battery tray. Rust is the #1 value/safety factor; inspect thoroughly and beware filler.
Repair cost (estimate): $3,000-$20,000+ — about 48% of what this car is typically worth
Source: not yet checked against public records.
Originality and matching numbers affect value; many were modified or engine-swapped. Verify for a collector-grade car.
Repair cost: Not yet priced
Source: not yet checked against public records.
The twin SU carbs need proper tuning; poorly running cars often just need carb work, but verify.
Repair cost (estimate): $300-$1,500
Source: not yet checked against public records.
Old brakes, bushings, and suspension should be refreshed.
Repair cost (estimate): $800-$3,000
Source: not yet checked against public records.
Walk-Away Red Flags
- ✗Hidden rust in floors/frame rails
- ✗Filler over rot
- ✗Non-original engine undisclosed
- ✗Poor prior restoration
Good Signs
- ✓Numbers-matching, documented
- ✓Honest, quality restoration
Other Datsun 240Z years
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Known issues on this page are based on documented owner reports, NHTSA complaints, class-action records, and manufacturer technical service bulletins. Individual vehicles vary. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always worth doing.
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