I have a 1972 Datsun 240Z with the completely stock L24 2.4-liter engine and original Hitachi round-top SU carburetors. I want to improve acceleration, especially from a stop, and make the throttle response more immediate and predictable. It’s always felt weak during acceleration. It seems I have to use the choke to accelerate even when the car is warmed up. I’m not looking to build a race car or pursue maximum horsepower. I want a responsive, enjoyable street car that remains reliable and retains its original appearance as much as possible.

Some of the upgrades on my list would be carb rebuild & tune and changing needles, Pertronix ignition conversion, MSA 3-2-1 headers, change to an R180 differential with a 3.70 gear ratio.

If you were starting with a completely stock 1972 240Z today, what would you do and what would you avoid?

Thanks in advance for sharing your experience and advise.

Larry

Is it a 4 speed?

Have you given it a tuneup and checked that the distributor is working correctly? The advance mechanisms inside, both vacuum and centrifugal, are important during the transition from idle to acceleration.

It’s a 4 speed. I haven’t given it a tune up or had the distributor checked out yet. I will have to bring the car to a mechanic to do it for me. I was thinking about contacting Godzilla raceworks in Forth Worth a call and have them work on the car. Once they work on the carb and distributor and get that corrected would you think that doing any of the other upgrades mentioned above would be beneficial?