240Z Options

240Z Options

To better understand the options available on the Datsun 240Z, start the audio and scroll down to follow along with the photos.

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Introduction

     During the production of Datsun 240Z from October of 1969 through August of 1973, there were very limited “factory options” available to the buyer.  In fact, Automatic Transmission may have been the only factory option available.  However, there were numerous add-on options available through the Datsun dealerships. This document attempts to describe many of the dealer add-ons that were available for the 240Z buyer.  Options that are known to be Datsun (Nissan) authorized and listed in a Sales Brochure or Accessories Brochure are listed with an asterisk (*).

Factory Options

Automatic Transmission*

     Automatic Transmission was a factory option from Nissan.  Only 10% or less 240Zs were equipped with Automatic Transmission.  Since this transmission was less desirable in a sports car, it currently reduces the value of the vehicle according to Hagerty classic car insurance company. Hagerty lowers the value of a 240Z by 15% when it is equipped with Automatic Transmission.  However, to some collectors, a 240Z with an Automatic Transmission is more desirable due to its rarity.  Many existing 240Zs with Automatic Transmission have been converted to manual transmission thus increasing their rarity.  The Automatic Transmission used was a JATCO 3-speed automatic. 240Zs were equipped with a T-Handle Automatic Transmission shifter with a lock release button on the driver side as seen in Figure 1. Figure 2 shows that Automatic Transmission shifters had the standard P, R, N, D, 2, and 1 position.

Figure 1. 240Zs were equipped with a T-Handle Automatic Transmission shifter with a lock release button on the driver side.


Figure 2. Automatic Transmission shifters had the standard P, R, N, D, 2, and 1 positions.



Dealer Options

Air Conditioning

     Air Conditioning was a popular dealer option for the 240Z.  The primary location for the compressor was on the right side of the engine by the fuel pump.  A large bracket was attached to the engine to support the compressor.  The most common Air Conditioning compressor was manufactured by York.  The drier was typically attached to the right shock tower area of the wheel well.  The location of the compressor required the fuel filter to be relocated from its stock position.  Most dealer add-on Air Conditioners were either ARA or Frigiking although these may not have been the only brands. In Figure 3 we see the arrangement when the compressor was located by the fuel pump. Figure 4 provides another view of the configuration.

Figure 3. York A/C compressor with drier and re-located fuel filter.
Figure 4. Another view of the engine bay configuration

Figure 5 shows the top view of a York Compressor. (Note the lengthy re-routing of the fuel lines from the fuel filter to the fuel rail on this Z.)

Figure 5. Top view of a York A/C Compressor.




Some earlier 240Zs had the A/C compressor located on the opposite side under the upper radiator hose where the smog pump was later located.  This configuration is very rare. 

There were various A/C controllers located on the dash for Air Conditioning.  Two were the most prevalent.  One was attached to the driver side of the center console, an ARA. See Figure 6.  The other was typically mounted under the dash on the right side of the steering column, a Frigiking.

Figure 6. Typical position of the ARA A/C switch and temperature controller.

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