1970–1978 Datsun 240Z / 260Z
Browse our directory of 1970–1978 Datsun 240Z / 260Z vehicles. Access instant MOT history reports, tax status, and reliability insights for any registration listed below.
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Common Problems & Reliability
The 1970–1978 Datsun 240Z / 260Z has 4 known issues. 2 of these are classified as serious faults that could be expensive to repair. 2 are moderate concerns worth inspecting before purchase.
Structural Corrosion (Rust)
SeriousThe S30 chassis has many hidden box sections where moisture traps and eats the metal from the inside out. Frame rails, battery trays, and floor pans are the most common failure points.
Symptoms: Bubbling paint, Soft spots in floor/sills...
Est. repair cost: £5,000–£20,000+
Overheating & Head Gasket Failure
SeriousOlder L24/L26 engines can suffer from silt buildup in the radiator or blocked coolant passages in the block, leading to localized overheating and warped heads.
Symptoms: Temp gauge climbing in traffic, White smoke from exhaust...
Est. repair cost: £1,000–£3,000
Carburetor & Fuel System Issues
ModerateThe Hitachi-SU carburettors require regular maintenance and adjustment. Worn needles, vacuum leaks and gummed-up passages cause flat spots, poor idle and hesitation. Parts are hard to source, with many owners converting to Webers.
Symptoms: Hesitation on acceleration, Stalling at idle...
Est. repair cost: £200–£600
Wiring Loom Degradation
ModerateAfter 45+ years, the original wiring loom becomes brittle. Corroded fuse connections, cracked insulation and perished earth straps cause intermittent electrical faults throughout the car.
Symptoms: Intermittent lighting failures, Gauge erratic behaviour...
Est. repair cost: £100–£500
Buying Tips for the 1970–1978 Datsun 240Z / 260Z
- ✓Check the "doglegs" (the area in front of the rear wheels) and the floor-to-sill joins for soft metal.
- ✓Ensure the engine starts easily and idles smoothly; L-series engines are famously "sweet" when tuned correctly.
- ✓Look for signs of water ingress in the cabin, often caused by perished window seals or blocked scuttle drains.
- ✓A "California Import" is often a safer bet for a project car, as UK-original cars have suffered through decades of salted roads.
- ✓Upgraded electronic ignition is a common and highly recommended modification for modern reliability.
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