DISCOVERING WHY THE DATSUN 240 Z WAS DESTINED FOR SUCCESS

Having worked exclusively with engine overhauls of American-manufactured engines up  until college days, I had never experienced the opportunity -- or need -- to tinker with a Datsun, Honda, or Toyota engine.   I had heard that they were well-engineered, but I was inclined to buy only the V8 cars, like Chevys, Mopars and Fords. 

Yet when it came time to have a job with a 40-mile each-way commute, I started thinking about fuel economy and opted to buy a six-cylinder Datsun 240 Z -- and it was one of the best decsions that I ever made, and, of course, one of the best cars that I've owned.   Durable, great styling, good fuel economy, fun to drive -- and the engine went 150,000 miles before it began  to consume oil.  It still had life at 150,000 miles, though I didn't want to drive a "smoker," so I did an engine overhaul.

Neat motor, great car, and terrific memories.  Even the day we did the "R&R" on this engine on an otherwise leisurely Sunday (see photo #17).