FYI: Petri Barjo’s meticulously restored and modified 1973 Datsun 240Z, named "Dasse," showcases vintage appeal with state-of-the-art performance enhancements.
Petri Barjo’s Unforgettable Datsun 240Z: A Detailed Restoration Journey
To the untrained eye, Petri Barjo’s 1973 Datsun 240Z might seem like a simple restomod merging vintage aesthetics and modern prowess. But for those in the know, this vehicle represents a five-year saga of meticulous restoration and personalized modification, resulting in an automotive masterpiece known as "Dasse."
A Legacy of Japanese Car Mastery
Petri Barjo has long been a revered figure in the Japanese car-building community, with previous works including the Nissan S14 and MkIV Toyota Supra. These projects were mere preludes to his pièce de résistance: the stunning Datsun S30 Z. Petri’s journey to create Dasse began with a quest for the perfect base model, which eventually led him from Finland to the USA, where he found a pristine, crash-free, and rust-free candidate.
A Unexpected Challenge
When the car arrived in Finland in November 2018, hidden collision damage was discovered, transforming what was meant to be a straightforward repaint and engine swap into an all-encompassing restoration and modification endeavor. Far from being deterred, Petri embraced the extensive rebuild. This diligent process allowed him to infuse his unique creativity into every aspect of the car, thus creating the bespoke vehicle known as "Dasse."
Engine Mastery: RB25DET Transformation
The heart of Dasse lies in its formidable Nissan RB25DET engine, which Petri fortuitously found in Sweden. The engine, already enhanced with forged internals, received further upgrades including a Holset Super HX40 turbo, a custom PPF manifold, a Turbosmart wastegate, a Plasmaman 72mm throttle body, and an Ecumaster EMU Black engine management system. These robust modifications brought the turbocharged 2.5L DOHC 24-valve inline six-cylinder engine to an impressive output of 526 horsepower and 620Nm of torque.
Enhanced Driveline and Suspension
Petri’s vision extended beyond the engine compartment. The driveline was completely overhauled, incorporating a Skyline R33 five-speed manual gearbox, an R200 long-nose differential with MFactory LSD, and FutoFab CV axles. For suspension, Petri chose a custom air-ride setup based on BC Racing struts paired with modified BMW airbags, with the air tank mounted on a carbon fiber 3D-printed bracket at the rear.
Uncompromising Braking System
Given the enhanced powertrain, Petri wisely upgraded the Z’s braking system. The stock brakes were replaced with T3 Wilwood four-piston calipers at all four corners, a Wilwood master cylinder, and a 280Z brake booster, ensuring optimal stopping power.
Exterior and Aesthetic Refinements
Externally, Petri adhered to classic modification principles, selecting upgrades that harmonize perfectly. Notable features include Marugen Shokai fender flares, a custom aluminum front grille, Fairlady Z fender mirrors, and a sleek MDesign rear spoiler. Matti Kettunen of Colibri Paint Shop provided the immaculate paintwork that highlights these features.
Wheels and Interior Customization
Deviating from the expected RS Watanabe wheels, Petri opted for custom wide three-piece Colin Cross Fever Racing wheels, measuring 15×9.5” at the front and 15×10.5” at the rear, wrapped in Toyo Proxes R888R tires. The interior preserves a ’70s sports car ambiance with modern touches, such as a Vintage Dashes dashboard, a Rodak Garage shift knob, Speedhut gauges with custom graphics, and low-backed Bride Histrix seats from Japan. Further details include custom door cards from Provan and an interior kit from DCW Classics, all installed by Petri and his fiancé.
Continued Evolution
The Dasse made a spectacular debut at the 2023 CDLC.CO Big Meet, where it won the People’s Choice award and has since demonstrated both reliability and beauty. Petri’s journey with the Z is ongoing, with an RB26 ITB potentially being installed in the near future. This evolving project showcases Petri’s relentless pursuit of perfection and his unparalleled passion for car building.
Donald Smith, Editor of automotive.fyi
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