FYI: Dive into the world of restomods with this stunning blend of classic charm and modern innovation in a John Rau’s 1971 S30 Datsun 240Z.
The automotive scene is abuzz with the term "restomod," a concept that has grown somewhat contentious due to its increasingly frequent appearances. Known as the "Singer syndrome," the phenomenon involves transforming vintage cars with contemporary modifications and fetching prices well beyond their original market value. While some ventures achieve greatness, others miss the mark spectacularly. Yet, the true artistry of restomods lies in creations that honor the original spirit of classic cars while discreetly enhancing them with today’s top-tier components. The latest testament to this philosophy? John Rau’s beautifully crafted 1971 S30 Datsun 240Z.
Tribute to Nostalgia: The Devil Z Influence
Car enthusiasts and manga fans alike will appreciate the homage to the famed "Devil Z" from the beloved series, "Wangan Midnight." Rau’s version embraces a bolder interpretation while capturing the essence of the original with its distinctive flair. Coated in a vibrant San Marino Blue—more commonly seen on marques like BMW and Porsche—the car draws eyes with a custom body kit designed by John Sibal, marrying the 1970s aesthetic with present-day elegance.
Modern Engineering Meets Classic Style
Complementing the visual appeal, the 240Z showcases cutting-edge engineering. Under its wide fender arches lies a formidable set of Work Meister M1 wheels paired with high-performance Toyo Proxes R888R tires. The suspension, equipped with Apex Engineered coilovers, ensures precise handling, while the custom Turbohoses carbon-ceramic brakes provide exceptional stopping power. John Rau’s vision extends beyond mere aesthetics, embedding modern comforts such as bespoke LED lights and carbon fiber accents into the classic shell.
Heart of a Racer
At the core, Rau chose to retain the soul of the Datsun with an enhanced L-series inline-six engine, pushing performance boundaries through a meticulous 3.0-liter boreout and a Garrett G35-900 turbocharger. Additions like forged pistons and a custom intake plenum further amplify the engine’s potential, while Haltech ECU programming optimizes performance with E85 biofuel.
Artful Craftsmanship Inside and Out
Rau’s dedication to craftsmanship is evident through the interior’s luxurious leather, custom roll bars, and striking black-and-red Recaro seats. Original elements, such as custom gauges and a Momo steering wheel, nod to the Devil Z’s legendary status while ensuring a seamless blend of past and future.
Performance Perfected
Equipped with an Infiniti 6-speed gearbox and Ford differential, power delivery is smooth, reinforcing the coupe’s dynamic capabilities. The integration of Apex Engineering’s structural reinforcements guarantees durability, essential for a car designed to wield both muscle and finesse.
Conclusion: A Legacy Redefined
John Rau’s 1971 S30 Datsun 240Z is more than a restomod—it’s a narrative of preservation and innovation. This vehicle represents how beautifully modern technology can coexist with classic automotive charm, making it not just a car, but a timeless masterpiece for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
For further insights and updates, reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi, or follow us on Twitter @automotivefyi.
Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
