We’ve seen some interesting auctions in the past but not many that command six figures for a classic (Datsun) Nissan Z car. This week we find one of the more interesting auctions to be a 1971 Nissan Fairlady Z432, which was sold for $250,000 on Bring a Trailer.
The $250,000 bid was interestingly made ten days ago, just two days after the bid opened. During those ten days the rather aggressive bid held strong and ended up being the take-home price for this gem. Interestly, in the past, we’ve seen the Fairlady Z432R go for as much as $800,000 at action, making it one of the most valuable Z cars in the world. In America, branded as Datsun, these Z cars that are US-spec are gaining newfound notoriety and collectability with rising values, as are ones like this right-hand-drive JDM Nissan example that eventually made it to our shores.
No doubt that the 1971 Fairlady Z432 is a rare and coveted classic, which holds a special place in automotive history, with only about 420 units produced for the Japanese market between 1969 and 1973. This specific vehicle, chassis 273, underwent a comprehensive refurbishment under previous ownership in Japan before making its way to the United States in 2014 through JDM Legends of Murray, Utah.
Powering the Z432 is a 2.0-liter S20 24-valve Weber-carbureted inline-six engine, derived from the Prince R380 race car, derived from the Prince R380 race car, delivering 160 horsepower. The power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a five-speed close-ratio manual transmission and an R192 limited-slip differential.
With its rarity, meticulous refurbishment, and impressive performance features, this 1971 Fairlady Z432 stands as a testament to automotive craftsmanship that commanded the $250,000 winning bid price. Good luck to the new owner and we hope to see it out on the open road and at local car show venues.
