At various points in automotive history, a car comes along that changes the game. The Datsun 240Z is one of those cars. Its introduction helped change the perception of Japanese cars in the United States. Once considered to be makers of nothing more than simple, economical vehicles, Datsun decided to go head-to-head against European sports car manufacturers, and promptly punched them all in the mouth. The Z was faster, better looking, and less expensive than many of the heritage brand cars coming out of Europe. This hit all the right notes for the American car buyer, who were now lining up to get their hands on the 240Z.

The Z was successful not just against other carmakers, but also against the ever-tightening U.S. regulations for fuel economy, emissions, and safety. Through every change in legislation, Datsun found a way to pivot, stay in compliance, and keep the passion alive for the Z. The rapid growth of Datsun dealerships and certified service centers made it that much easier to own and maintain a Datsun in America.

While it’s certainly fair to say the 240Z received some design inspiration from classic sports cars from the 1960’s (Did someone say ‘Jaguar?’), the Datsun 240Z managed to create a vehicle design doesn’t seem to age. The long hood and short rear was featured at various times by the likes of Ferrari, Aston Martin, and BMW. Nearly 50 years later, the Z’s version of this shape still looks fresh, fast, and sporty. The interior is a perfect extension of the exterior design, with slung-back bucket seats plus an instrument cluster on the center dash that looks like it came from a race car.

Some cars are surprisingly quick. The 240Z, however, broadcasts its intentions to jump off the line and carve up the turns. It was built to be fast and doesn’t apologize for what it is. And for that, Americans have kept their love alive for the car known simply as the Z.