I just recieved the Gold Portfolio of the datsun z-car for the 240 and 260 from 1970-1978. It has in succession all of the articles writen on the zcar at the time of its production. I have gathered in my reading that the rear gear ratio was the weakest aspect of the cars performance with a 3.36. Everybody said that it was too tall for the 150 horses and one magazine got a 15.5 1/4 mi et stock still. a higher ratio like say one of those out of a 240sx would probably make a world of difference in the performance.

Remember, the early car used the 3.36 rear because there was no 5 speed in the USA. This car had to work in the US and in Europe so they sacrificed some acceleration for top end. A healthy stock 240Z will top out well above 140MPH. You can't compare the perfromance numbers from an early '70s sports car and todays cars, the old guys just can't compete.

The Zcar used the same differential as most rear drive Nissans used. The 240Z used the R180 and the 280s and up used the R200. Datsun 510s used the R160. All of these are interchangeble with some parts swapping. (Even the Qs R230 could fit with some effort). To make it even more interesting, some Nissan 4wd pick ups used a limted slip R160 as the front differential. Just flip it over. And don't forget that Subaru used R160s in many applications, some with limited slip. Any of these can fit, often as direct bolt ins. An R160 is a favorite swap for the Zcar racers due to weight. They can handle well over 200hp.

The real weakness of the early 240Z (1970 model) was the placement of the differential in relation to the drive wheels. It was a couple of inches too far forward which caused the half shafts to be out of alignment. This was corrected in 1971.

The advantage of the early Zcar is its light weight and the incredible supply of stock and aftermarket parts that will fit it. Even the 83 Turbo drivetrain is a straight forward bolt in (well, almost).

I have a '73 with a nicely built drivetrain from an 83 Zcar (210 hp with a 7300 redline, 5 speed, and 3.80 rear all in a car that weighs less than 2400 pounds). This car runs mid to high 14s and tops out well north of 155 mph. Plus, I have less than $6000 invested in it.

Rust was the biggest problem!! I am in with Reggie, except my memory tells me they did not get the rear end alignment corrected until the 1972 model year. Another small note, the fuse block was prone to melting/overheating on the interior lights circuit. I believe it was the 2nd or 3rd fuse down on the right hand side?? anyone reall that one??