The Datsun 240Z was a massive hit following its introduction in 1969, especially in the USA, where it managed to sway even the loyal owners of Ford Mustangs and Chevrolet Camaros. However, despite its popularity in the West, we never got its most potent and exciting incarnation. This, ladies and gentlemen, is the Japanese domestic market-only Fairlady Z423, and there’s one big reason why you’ll want to snap it up for yourself at Iconic Auctioneers’ upcoming Iconic Sale on August 23rd at Silverstone Festival. 

The Z432’s party piece lies under that forward-hinging bonnet, where you’ll find the 2.0-litre S20 straight-six from the legendary Hakosuka Skyline GT-R. As for the name? Well, it comes from the engine’s four valves per cylinder, three carburettors and two camshafts. Just 420 examples of these JDM unicorns were ever built, but far fewer exist in such outstanding condition as this particular car, with many being tracked and crashed or modified beyond recognition. 

When new, the Z432 carried a sticker price that almost doubled that of a standard Fairlady Z, but customers weren’t just paying for that extra-hot engine. The Z432 also came equipped with a sturdy, close-ratio five-speed manual gearbox, a special exhaust system, magnesium wheels, independent front and rear suspension with coil springs and telescopic dampers at all four corners, and a limited slip differential as a cherry on top. The Z432 was so rapid, in fact, that it was even used by Japan’s police force. 

While this particular example does show some evidence of previous track use, and its original magnesium wheels are no longer present, its considerable rarity has placed its auction estimate between 90,000 and 110,000 pounds. Would you spend that kind of money on this Z432, or would you look for a genuine GT-R instead? 

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