The sporty Datsun 240Z was highly celebrated when it launched in 1969 thanks to its stellar performance, great reliability, and affordable price tag. It is no surprise, then, that this car is highly sought after, despite being produced in large numbers and lacking exclusivity. A modified ’71 was recently sold on Bring a Trailer, and it’s a great example of the freedom that comes with owning a cool, but not super-exclusive vehicle.

The Z is fitted with a 5.3-litre LM7 V8 engine backed up by a four-speed automatic transmission, a limited-slip rear differential, and lowered suspension. It went under refurbishment in 2017, when it was stripped to bare metal then modified with front and rear spoilers, fender flares, a slotted panel at the back and LED headlights. The new 17-inch wheels are paired with Toyo Proxes R888 semislick tyres.

This car was set up as a race car as witnessed in the minimal interior with added roll cage and the Aeromotive fire suppression system. The racing seats are from Corbeau and they are equipped with PRP harnesses. A custom steel dashboard is wrapped in vinyl, supporting the three-spoke steering wheel and Racepak digital instrument cluster.

The tempting race-ready 240Z was sold for a surprising US$ 38,000, which is especially interesting due to V8-swapped Zs usually suffering heavily in the resale department.