So I recently purchased a 1971 240z. It's in pretty good condition but I am in the process of restoring it completely. One issue I am having with the car is the very strong exhaust fumes. They are pretty bad and get into the cabin. Now I have read all the current threads so I know about making sure everything is sealed tight in the cabin. I just put on an the inner hatch seal and have the tail light gaskets on the way in the mail. The old ones are the originals and torn to pieces. All other hatch seals are already in place. The problem is not only the smell inside the cabin but outside as well.
I notice people driving behind me will switch lanes because of how bad the smell is. I went to a nearby Z shop to have the engine checked out. They tuned the carbs, replaced the clutch, and we are currently in the process of replacing the steering rack and outer tire rods to get the alignment 100%. They checked for an exhaust leak and said there was none and that the smell is normal but I have a hard time believing that the car came out from the factory with the exhaust so bad people changed lanes when they got
behind you. Will the exhaust just need to be replaced? The connector pipe is definitely rusted but apparently not leaking.
I know this is a somewhat common problem and it is really hampering my ability to enjoy my car. Any help is appreciated!