1970 240z, it it worth it?

[KeithW]

Hi all,

I have a chance to buy a one owner 1970 240z for $600. It has some minor rearend damage and the front wheel bearings are frozen. It has a small amount or rust but is in generaly sound condition.

I have priced the parts I think it will need and added some extra and I figure it will cost $11000 to restore.

I guess my question is would this be worth the time and expense?

[John Coffey]

Keith,

Really check the car out for rust. In particular, use a screwdriver and check:

1. The drive and passenger floorpans (from below and above).
2. The front frame rails from the firewall forward.
3. The rear hatch striker plate panel.
4. The rocker panels and boxes on both sides of the car. From the insiode you can peel up the vinyl covers over the rocker boxes and look inside.



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John Coffey
johnc@betamotorsports.com

[KeithW]

Thanks John, I already have checked most of those things the only think that is beyond repair is the battery box. Its completely rusted through. The rest of it is very solid. I didnt check the floor pan from inside but I can replace those easily if they turn out to be bad. They look ok from outside. This car is from texas so I didnt expect to find alot of rust but it was better than I hoped.

I plan on a complete frame off restoration. I will be doing everything myself except the paint, I have a good local shop I will take it to for that.

[Steve Weatherley]

Keep an eye on the overboard Carb Drains if you have the SU carbs. If the things overflow, they might just drip the excess onto the exhaust manafold..... just a thought. I ran into this prob and scared the hell out of me!!

[treebeard]

I have the same question as above, but my story is a little different. My dad, who passed away a few years ago, had a 1971 240z. After some major body work in the mid-80s (rust of course) the car fell into disuse. Right now it has stood for over a decade essentially unused. It has never been prepared for a slumber. I would like to get her back running but do not know where to start, help?!

[zorro]

Keith,

If you have the time and money definetly do it. Over here the Japanese especially are coming over and buying any 240 or 260 coupe they can get there hand on. They are paying $10,000 for good condition ones because they have started to race them in a Z only format. Besides the fact they have none over there or they are all smashed. 2nd if you love Zed's you will enjoy watching your car turn into a masterpiece....:)

[ZmeFly]

they can have mine then and ill go buy me a better one then this one and spend a week in cali doing it hehehehe

why not right

[grantman240z]

my concern would be damage to the frame from the "minor" damage....in any case you should have a mechanic/body shop take a look at it before you buy it. But it sounds pretty good otherwise