A decade before Nissan came out with the Z, the Japanese automaker used the Fairlady nameplate for the Datsun Sports family of roadsters. Lightweight corner-carving cars that would make a Mazda MX-5 Miata blush with admiration, this lineage was indirectly replaced by the Z.
Of the circa 40,000 units ever produced, today we’re going to cover a 1968 model bearing the SPL31119603 chassis number. What makes this example stand out in the crowd is the engine compartment. A KA24E resides under the hood, a SOHC 12-valve powerplant you may know from the 240SX sports car, D21 Hardbody, first-gen Pathfinder, or D22 Navara.
Installed under current ownership and fed by a downdraft carburetor instead of sequential electronic fuel ignition from Hitachi as originally intended, the 2.4-liter motor is more pokey than the Fairlady’s bone-stock engine. The owner had to relocate the battery to the trunk for extra space in the engine compartment, and modifications further include an aluminum radiator with a hardwired electric fan. A replacement exhaust manifold and custom exhaust system also need to be mentioned, along with a five-speed tranny.
Titled in Hawaii as a 1969 model, the one-of-one build was refurbished in the current shade of blue with racing stripes under previous ownership. A set of aftermarket wheel-arch flares are complemented by 14-inch alloys with an eight-spoke design and 195/60 Barum Bravuris 2 summer rubber.
In preparation for the sale, the seller decided to replace the wiring harness, tie rods, and front ball joints for extra peace of mind. A wood-rimmed steering wheel dominates the minimalist cockpit that’s protected by the elements by a quirky soft top. Obviously enough, there are a few areas where this little roadster needs some tender loving care. But on the other hand, whoever ends up buying the Fairlady won’t break the bank fixing it.
Listed on Bring a Trailer with eight days of bidding left, the KA24E-powered Fairlady is certain to put a smile on your face on a winding road.
After a 1:43 scale model of a Ferrari 250 GTO sparked Mircea's interest for cars when he was a kid, an early internship at Top Gear sealed his career path. He's most interested in muscle cars and American trucks, but he takes a passing interest in quirky kei cars as well. Full profile
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