The 1973 model year was the low point for Datsun Z performance, as emissions regs choked down the 2.4L I6 and its bumpers started to grow. 1974 brought even stricter regs, so Nissan’s answer was a bump to 2.6 liters to try to offset the performance impact. 260Zs were indeed quicker in a straight line vs. the last of the 240Zs, but were infamous for vapor lock, lean surge and dieseling that affected the driving experience. These issues combine with a short life span and a less rev-happy nature to give the 260Z a bad reputation.
All that being said, the 260Z’s bumpers are still tame compared to the 280Z’s monsters, and all S30s maintain the original Z lines with one major exception: the 2+2 model. These launched with the 260Z and carried on through the Z32 of the 1990s. S30 2+2s have significantly longer wheelbases to accommodate the rear seats, so the original lines are ‘impacted’ rather significantly.
So, what does “best of the worst” mean here? The worst indicates we’re talking about a 260Z 2+2 and also speaks to this car’s over-accessorization. The best? Well, this thing appears to be in amazing shape.
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Central Oregon
$5,499 OBO
This one looks pretty good from this angle, but what’s that above the rear fender line??
Good lord! It’s a vinyl top on a Z. So, here we have a 260Z 2+2 with a really bad vintly roof, but apparently in great shape.
Presumably, a dealer went nuts with this car when it was on the lot. The vinyl top is obvious, but this also has the common Appliance wheels (which we like) and the almost-ubiquitous bumper overriders, which we’ve never really understood.
Here’s a rear view of the vinyl top execution.
Yet another view of the bizarre top.
Interior looks clean, but it appears the seats or seat covers have been replaced, as cloth was not available. Did the dealer do that, too? Steering wheel has been wrapped like 90% of these, but it’s not the worst job we’ve ever seen. Choke lever in center console is a reminder that you’re not in a 280Z.
Ad text:
Beautiful 1974 260z 2+2 Fairlady, in amazing shape. She has been in the family since the day she was driven off the lot. Body is 100% straight. Interior is excellent. It runs great; engine is strong and has a lot of power. She drives perfectly! Paint has some road chips, NO RUST DAMAGE. She is beautiful and drivable the way she sits. Would make an excellent restoration candidate as minimal work needs to be done. Awesome car for any classic enthusiast!
Thank you for looking. For more information please call 541-xxx-xxxx, or reply to this email.