Photo: craigslist
Usually we’re only writing about cars that are up for sale but this time, we thought we’d make an exception. That’s because this car is rather special, its owner wanting to change it for something new, something more challenging.
The car in question is a 1971 Datsun 240Z or, better said, used to be. That’s because the driveline was changed with one from a BMW E36 M3 for some reason. Actually, looking over the specs of the two we find it really easy to see why.
While the Datsun used to have a 2.4-liter inline 6-cylinder engine making 151 HP and 146 lb-ft (198 Nm) of torque, the Bimmer was a lot stronger. Considering the age difference between the two (more than 20 years), it only makes sense.
The 1995 US-Spec BMW E36 M3 had a 3-liter inline 6-cylinder engine that used to make around 240 HP and 225 lb-ft (305 Nm) of torque. That seems to be the unit that is powering the Datsun today, together with the 5-speed manual transmission, a new clutch, new master cylinder, BMW ECU with stout tune, BMW 5 Series radiator and many other add-ons. At least that’s what the ad says.
According to it, more than $18,000 were invested in the car over the last 12 months alone. Even so, while the driveline might be impeccable, the car has a few issues like several exterior rust spots on the quarter panels, door corner, near the fuel filler door and one wheel arch. Other issues include the horn, the electric trunk latch and a new gasket for the rear hatch. It may seem like a long list but at least the man is honest about the car.
The best bit is that he wants only to trade up or down. He’s looking for a 1960s-1970s American convertible, a hot rod or some sort of cool car. On the other hand, he seems to be pretty done with Japanese cars. Makes you wonder why....
While the Datsun used to have a 2.4-liter inline 6-cylinder engine making 151 HP and 146 lb-ft (198 Nm) of torque, the Bimmer was a lot stronger. Considering the age difference between the two (more than 20 years), it only makes sense.
The 1995 US-Spec BMW E36 M3 had a 3-liter inline 6-cylinder engine that used to make around 240 HP and 225 lb-ft (305 Nm) of torque. That seems to be the unit that is powering the Datsun today, together with the 5-speed manual transmission, a new clutch, new master cylinder, BMW ECU with stout tune, BMW 5 Series radiator and many other add-ons. At least that’s what the ad says.
According to it, more than $18,000 were invested in the car over the last 12 months alone. Even so, while the driveline might be impeccable, the car has a few issues like several exterior rust spots on the quarter panels, door corner, near the fuel filler door and one wheel arch. Other issues include the horn, the electric trunk latch and a new gasket for the rear hatch. It may seem like a long list but at least the man is honest about the car.
The best bit is that he wants only to trade up or down. He’s looking for a 1960s-1970s American convertible, a hot rod or some sort of cool car. On the other hand, he seems to be pretty done with Japanese cars. Makes you wonder why....
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