The Japanese are well-known for creating products that stand the test of time and life. One of its most popular exports to the rest of the world is the reliable and affordable Nissan brand vehicles. This reputation is perfectly exemplified by one vintage Datsun car that was just sold for way more than its initial price.
Record-Breaking Vintage
The near-mint car was produced by Datsun, a brand under the larger Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. umbrella
The car in question is one 1971 Datsun 240Z, which reportedly fetched a whopping $310,000 during an auction at the website Bring a Trailer. The sale is record-breaking as it significantly exceeded the previous highest sale price noted on the classic and vintage car auctioneer. For context, that price can buy a person three luxury sedan cars or 10 Nissan 370Z Coupes or even a house. The Datsun 240Z originally retailed for only $3,500 in the ‘70s (equivalent to about $23,300 in today’s money. That said what is exactly so special about this particular car that it managed to attract people to bid on it hundreds of thousands of dollars?
Immaculate Condition
The record-breaking Datsun 240Z still has its original 2.4-liter inline-six engine
According to sources, the vehicle is in top condition even being described as the ‘the most original Datsun 240Z in existence’ by valuation analyst. And for a 50-year-old car, it’s only been driven for around 21,750 miles. That translates to about 435 miles a year since its creation. No wonder bidders were at fierce competition to nab the one-of-a-kind Datsun sports car. The same model reportedly usually sells for just $50,000.
Familial Origins
A look at the pristinely maintained interiors of the car
Another interesting thing about the vehicle is its background story. As it turns out, it was a graduation present that a Datsun dealership owner gave their son on the event of their finishing dental school. However, it’s since spent the years in the showroom or safeguarded at the owner’s home. And when it does get driven around, it’s only taken out during sunny weather. Thus, it’s no surprise that the Datsun remains in such great condition. It’s entirely unrestored except for the addition of an electric ignition.