1972 Datsun 240Z Samuri
1972 Datsun 240Z Samuri-Spec | Ex-Barrie “Wizzo” Williams
UK RHD Datsun 240Z, ex-Barrie “Wizzo” Williams, uprated by Dave Jarman to Samuri-style spec. Known provenance and ready for fast-road or touring use.
An Icon with Provenance: Barrie “Wizzo” Williams and the 240Z
This UK-supplied 240Z is more than a desirable survivor—it’s part of British motorsport folklore. Owned and signed by Barrie “Wizzo” Williams, it was one of the last additions to his personal collection. Williams was a giant of the sport, with achievements spanning the 1964 Motoring News Rally Championship, British Saloon Car Championship, and later stints in historic racing. Always as engaging in the paddock as he was behind the wheel, Wizzo brought humour and humility to everything he drove.
This 240Z is believed to have been his road car in later years. Its Samuri-style upgrades were carried out by respected marque specialist Dave Jarman, ensuring both performance and authenticity. With period-correct tuning and mechanical enhancements, it bridges the gap between spirited road use and long-distance touring.
Inspirational
The car’s 2.4-litre straight-six has been uprated to deliver an estimated 180 bhp. The key features include a gas-flowed cylinder head, uprated camshafts with direct oil feed to the lobes, a lightweight flywheel and clutch assembly, and a 260Z electronic distributor for improved ignition.
The exhaust is handled by a Janspeed manifold feeding into a full stainless-steel system, giving both power and tone. The sum of these enhancements is a smooth, responsive drive well suited to B-road enjoyment.