market needs. In 2004, Sports Car International named this car number two on their list of Top Sports Cars of the 1970s. Specifications Engine: L24 inline-six, cast iron block, alloy head, two valves per cylinder, seven-bearing crankshaft, Direct Acting OHC, compression ratio 9.0:1; Maximum recommended engine speed 7,000 rpm. Bore X stroke: Fuel system: Mechanical fuel pump, twin Hitachi HJG 46W SU-type carburetors Power: at 5,600 rpm (SAE gross), DIN at 5,600 rpm Torque: at 4,400 rpm (SAE gross), at 4,800 rpm (DIN) Transmission: Four-speed manual, five-speed manual, or three-speed automatic (after September 1970) Final drive ratios: Four-speed manual transmission: 3.364:1 (37:11) Five-speed manual transmission: 3.90:1 (39:10) (not available in US) Three-speed automatic transmission: 3.545:1 (39:11). Brakes: Front: discs Rear: x drums Suspension: Front: Independent with MacPherson struts, lower transverse and drag links, coil springs, telescopic dampers, anti-roll bar Rear: Independent with Chapman struts, lower wishbones, coil springs, telescopic dampers Steering: Rack and pinion, 2.7 turns lock to lock Wheels: 4.5J-14 steel wheels with 175SR14 tires Top speed: 0 to : 8.0 s Typical fuel consumption: World Rally Championship - round victories In 1973, a 240Z, in the hands of Shekhar Mehta, won the 21st East African Safari Rally. {|class="wikitable" style="font-size: 95%; " ! No. ! Event ! Season ! Driver ! Co-driver ! Car |- | 1 | 21st East African Safari Rally | 1973 | Shekhar Mehta | Lofty Drews | Datsun 240Z |} 260Z The 260Z was sold in the United States for the 1974 model year only, but was available in other countries until 1978 (aside from Japan, where this model was never regularly available except for in Okinawa). The engine was enlarged to 2.6 L by lengthening its stroke bringing with it the new model code RS30. In the US, federal emissions regulations forced a reduction in ignition timing and compression ratio, resulting in a lower power output of SAE net for the 260Z despite the additional displacement, whereas in other countries the power output increased to . There was also a 1974.5 model sold through the second half of 1974 in the US that had the full 165 hp with the addition of the larger 5 mph safety bumpers, that would become the standard for the 280Z. A four-speed or 5 speed (non US) manual remained standard equipment, with a three-speed automatic transmission optional. A 2+2 model built on a longer wheelbase was introduced,