Datsun 240Z vs Toyota 2000GT — The JDM Classics Compared
The Datsun 240Z (1969-1973) and Toyota 2000GT (1967-1970) are the two defining Japanese sports cars of the classic era — and they couldn't be more different in approach. The 2000GT was a hand-built, extremely rare grand tourer aimed at European exotics; the 240Z was a mass-market sports car that democratized the Japanese performance experience for American buyers. Both are irreplaceable, but they occupy completely different market positions.
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Datsun 240Z | Toyota 2000GT |
|---|---|---|
| Production (total) | ~167,000 (1969-1973) | 337 units (1967-1970) |
| Engine | L24 2.4L inline-six | 2.0L DOHC inline-six (Yamaha) |
| Power output | 151 hp (US-spec) | 150 hp (JDM) |
| Driver-quality value | \$25,000-\$55,000 | \$800,000-\$1,500,000+ |
| Parts availability | Excellent | Extremely limited |
| Market position | Collector driver | Museum collectible |
The case for Datsun 240Z
Choose the Datsun 240Z for an accessible, driveable, parts-supported classic that delivers a genuine sports car experience at an entry point far below the 2000GT. The L24 straight-six is robust, the chassis is communicative and balanced, and the styling — designed with input from Albrecht Goertz — has aged extraordinarily well. Driver-quality 240Zs trade at $25,000-$55,000 for solid examples. The aftermarket is comprehensive, the Z community is active globally, and the car is genuinely rebuildable by any competent mechanic with the right L-series engine knowledge.
The case for Toyota 2000GT
Choose the Toyota 2000GT if you are a serious collector with substantial means. Only 337 units were produced between 1967 and 1970, making it one of the rarest Japanese production cars in history and one of the most valuable. Designed in collaboration with Yamaha (who built the engine and interior) and styled with clear Ferrari influence, the 2000GT features a twin-cam 2.0L inline-six producing 150 hp — extraordinary for Japan in 1967. Two open-top 2000GTs were built for the James Bond film "You Only Live Twice." Values range from $800,000 to over $1,500,000 for documented examples — this is a museum-quality collectible, not a driver.
Verdict
These are not really competing in the same market. The 240Z is the accessible, driveable, loveable Japanese sports car that made the world pay attention to Japanese performance engineering. The 2000GT is a rare, museum-grade collectible that exists at a price level accessible only to serious collectors. If you want to drive a classic JDM sports car regularly, the 240Z is the answer. If you want to own one of the most significant Japanese automobiles ever built and have the resources, the 2000GT is irreplaceable.
Recent Datsun 240Z listings
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1973 Datsun 240Z
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1973 Datsun 240Z
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1970 Datsun 240Z
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