The Nissan Fairlady 240ZG (HS30) '71 is a celebrated classic sports car that helped define Japan’s burgeoning automotive scene in the early 1970s. Launched as part of the renowned Nissan S30 family—better known internationally as the Datsun 240Z—the 240ZG (with 'G' signifying 'Grande') was a Japan-only model designed expressly for both road use and homologation into motorsport. The 'G' variant distinguished itself with an elongated nose cone, fender-mounted rearview mirrors, light covers, and wider wheels—all features designed to enhance aerodynamics and visual appeal. The result was a car that looked as fast as it drove, and which attracted attention on and off the track.
Powered by a robust 2.4-liter L24 inline-six engine, the Fairlady 240ZG delivered 151 horsepower and a lively driving experience that rivaled far more expensive European sports cars of its day. It combined agile handling, strong acceleration, and excellent reliability, earning praise both from motoring enthusiasts and the race teams that pressed it into service. Its distinctive styling and competitive pricing made it a hit with buyers in Japan, even as the export Datsun 240Z built a legendary reputation abroad.
The 240ZG saw noteworthy success in motorsport, particularly in domestic Japanese and Asian rally events as well as circuit racing. The car’s design was optimized not just for style but also for hitting FIA Group 4 homologation requirements, meaning that racing teams could take advantage of its improved aerodynamics and balance right out of the box. Today, the Nissan Fairlady 240ZG (HS30) '71 is celebrated by car collectors and vintage racing enthusiasts alike, being recognized as one of the key models that established Nissan (and, by extension, Japanese car makers) as serious contenders in the global sports car market.
