240z vs. 260z Handling

[Hardway]

I know the 240z is lighter and thus would be more nimble than a 260z. However how much of a difference is it? I have read the steering ratio is tighter on a 240z. I am working to find a clean 240z for $5K - $7K. There are none in TX but seems to be plenty along the west coast in CA and OR. I am trying to determine if the extra money for a 240z is really worth it from a handling and performance stand point. I am planning on using the car just cruise around town, no auto-crossing is in my future. Thank you!

[John Coffey]

Any handling differences you might find between the two will have far, far more to do with the current condition of the cars then any inherent manufacturing differences.

[LeonV]

I am trying to determine if the extra money for a 240z is really worth it from a handling and performance stand point.Thank you!

Nope, no discernible difference between the two, in that respect.

Any handling differences you might find between the two will have far, far more to do with the current condition of the cars then any inherent manufacturing differences.

I completely agree.

[Carl Beck]

There is a larger difference between the early 260Z {240Z body} and the later body 260Z {280Z body}, than between the early 260Z and the 240Z. I'd take an early 260Z for your purposes..

FWIW,

Carl B.

[Hardway]

Good to know. I appreciate the information guys. I have my eyes set on a 260Z but its out of state. Planning to have a friend go check it out for me.

[tlorber]

We do have plenty of 240's out this way that you could get into for 5k or less.

One comment on steering-if you ditch the stock boat steering wheel (ahoy matey) and put one on that is more suitable for performance driving, you'll be amazed at the difference in response.

[gnosez]

That and having any old bushing, spring, shock replaced.

And I had a dozen cardboard tubes taped around the outside of my steering wheel (looked like a ship's wheel) by my "friends" at a weekend AX event. I changed to a Grant wheel before the next event and never looked back...

[grantf]

I like my wheel, the stock one not the Grant.

Grant.

[gnosez]

Oh, I liked my wheel as well, but once I started driving it harder and harder, a different and upgraded wheel as the right thing to do. A daily driver doesn't need a Grant or similar wheel unless you like just happen to like the way they look or feel.

Go with what makes you happy...

[Hardway]

Thank you for the suggestions on the steering wheel. I ended up finding a 240z in TX and working out the deal now. It still has the factory wheel on it. I have used Grant wheels in the past and always been happy with their quality, looks, and comfort. I may consider one for the 240 once I get it.

[72 OJ]

I got a vintage momo 14 inch leather four spoke steering wheel in great condition and replaced the skinny factory st/wheel and the comfort feel is great, also cut about 4 inches to the stick shift and got a leather matching momo knob it looks like it belongs in the Z cabin.