How long has it been since we have seen an original Datsun 240Z in its correct colours and steel wheels? By offering this colour shared with current Alfas, Porsches and Fiats, Datsun insisted on buyers viewing its new 240Z in the same light.
The 2013 Classic Japan event hosted by the Toyota Car Club of Australia on December 1 raised the bar yet again with the depth and variety of pre-1988 Japanese models of all makes on display. Set in the beautiful riverside surroundings of Como Park in South Yarra near Melbourne under clear skies, the event highlighted why so many Japanese models are facing a revival and values are taking off.
Full marks to the Toyota Car Club volunteers as Classic Japan caters for the growing number of one make, one model enthusiasts no longer attached to clubs. It also gives established clubs the opportunity to make contact with these owners and establish a connection.
The other refreshing aspect to this event is that it caters equally for Australian-delivered examples as well as the growing number of older private imports owned by one make enthusiasts attracted to the rarest versions not sold here.
Breathtaking restoration of an original locally-delivered 1968 Datsun 1600 in the correct colour and period plates was one of the highlights. No wonder Datsun had to rush them into local assembly.
Unlike many car displays, both genders and all age groups are represented at Classic Japan. It was refreshing to see elderly owners comparing their original, low mileage examples cherished from new with recently restored or upgraded examples of the same car while engaging with their young owners.
There was also a growing representation of showroom stock everyday Japanese models restored inside and out down to the finest detail yet hiding under the bonnet were the most exotic mechanicals that the owner could install without damaging the engine bay.
Prolific representation of almost forgotten Mitsubishi Starion was a reminder of how good these cars were and still are.
A growing number of superbly restored motor cycles and commercials added to the variety on display. As the organisers ran out of their 300 exhibitor’s packs quite early, the final number of Japanese vehicles on display must have approached 400. Well done to owners who had come from all over Australia and organisers for another great event that seems to have touched a chord with visitors and owners alike.
What was your favourite Japanese car and why? (see Forum - General)...
Final facelift of Bellett GT not seen in Australia was available as a wicked twin-cam GTR. Strong interstate Bellett and Florian club display shows where the event is heading.
AMI-badged and built Toyota Crowns have always taken pride of place and this example shows why.
This rare Mazda R130 Luce Rotary coupe was related to the Bertone Luce 1500 sedan sold here except the Giugiaro-designed coupe version had an early 13A rotary driving the front wheels.
Mint unmolested 1975 Honda Civic was displayed by its original elderly owner and was a real credit to him. It was a lesson on why the local Mini’s days were numbered.
The shovel-nosed Corona was too hard-working to be presented in show condition and this one captured exactly how many were used.
Interstate Suzuki Mighty Boy contingent reflected the affection and can-do attitude that this back to basics model generated with its original owners.
The tiny Honda Scamps were well-represented but it was the cheeky Honda Z that won even more smiles on its 1971 arrival and still does.
The number plate suggests this is a 1974 Datsun 260C wagon or a Nissan Cedric by any other name. A hard-working, beautifully made wagon, this one seems to have escaped the rust that makes them so rare.
The standard of Celica restorations continues to climb as the car becomes more valuable. Note the trend to fit later model Toyota wheels and not the aftermarket alloys so common in days gone by.
Another prize exhibit was this Datsun 2000, a fast and powerful traditional sports car based on the first Fairlady released locally, sold just before the 240Z arrived.
Star of the show was this early Mazda RX-3, restored by its long term owner down to the last nut, bolt and hose to the point where it would be indistinguishable from the yellow RX-3 on the original brochure.
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