LS1-Swapped Datsun 240Z with Pandem Widebody Build

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TL;DR

• Built from the ground up by owner Roy Rolon, this 1972 Datsun 240Z blends JDM heritage with American LS1 power.

• Features a Pandem widebody kit, custom SSR SP1 wheels, and a unique minty paint job.

• All work, from engine swap to wiring, was completed by Roy himself, staying true to his vision of the ultimate Z.

1972 Pandem wide body Datsun 240z

Roy Rolon

Instagram: @Troy240z

Photographer: Donnie Roc - @r0cean11

Early Inspiration and Family Roots in Cars

I was born and raised in Richmond, California. I’m 35 years old now, working as an Auto Technician at my father’s shop, which he’s owned since 1999. Cars have always been a part of my life, especially thanks to my dad. His love for wrenching on anything mechanical goes way back, and as a kid, I was always around it.

I remember watching him work on cars while my siblings and I played with his tools or climbed in and out of vehicles. At the time, I had no idea I’d grow to have the same passion for building and fixing cars. Looking back, I can name a few classic cars my dad sold in the late ’80s and ’90s—cars that are now worth a fortune. He never imagined the classic car market would explode like it has today.

The one car he kept was a 1971 Datsun B1600 truck. That’s the truck I learned to drive in, and he still has it. He also owned a 1970 Datsun 510 and a 1974 Datsun 260Z, which he passed down to my older brother.

The Z Dream

By the time I was 14, I knew I wanted a Z. Years went by, and I still couldn’t shake that dream. I’d spend hours watching my two older brothers work on their Z’s, imagining how mine would be different. When the day finally came, I bought my own 240Z.

From the start, I wanted my build to stand out—aggressive stance, wide wheels, something that made people stop and stare. I had no idea what I was getting into: the time, money, headaches, sleepless nights, and those moments when I was too broke to buy parts to keep the build moving.

That’s why I call it the “Sleepless Z.” Every time I see it parked or get a compliment, I think, I did it. I still can’t believe this car is mine.

Building the Sleepless Z

This is the first car I’ve modified entirely on my own. From the LS1 swap to cutting my fenders for those wide wheels, it’s all been my work. The compliments, thumbs up, and attention at shows make every struggle worth it.

If I could give advice to anyone building their dream car, it’s this: research everything about the car you want—pricing, potential issues, and what parts are available. Don’t let anyone tell you what to buy. This is your car, your money, and your vision.

For more insight why not check out this article Datsun 240Z Review: The Iconic Japanese Sports Car

Datsun 240z Modifications - 

Engine & Performance

• Forged LS1 block

• Mild cam, 817 heads, headers

• Wire tuck

• Custom wire harness from Wiring Specialties

• Champion radiator with dual electric fans

Interior

• Sparco racing seats

• Custom aluminum door panels

• Alcantara-wrapped center console with matching stitching

• Dashboard being wrapped in Alcantara

• Speedhut speedometer

• Prosport tachometer and gauges

• Nardi steering wheel with quick release

• Push-to-start button

Exterior

• Pandem widebody kit

• Custom minty paint with light metallic flakes

Wheels & Tires

• Custom SSR SP1: 17x11 front / 17x12 rear (by @love20bee in SoCal)

• Toyo Tires R888R

Suspension

• Full Techno Toy Tuning suspension setup

• Front/rear lower control arms

• Coilovers with Koni yellow dampers

• Front tie rods and ends

• Front/rear strut braces

Brakes

• Wilwood front disc brakes with drilled/slotted rotors

• Rear disc brakes from a Nissan Maxima

Acknowledgements

I want to give special thanks to my good friend Eder Rodriguez (@Eltaxi1), who handled all the paint and bodywork and helped me fit the body kit.

Future Plans

I plan to complete the interior, add a turbo setup, and upgrade my rear brakes to Wilwood to match the fronts. I’m also considering A/C, power windows, and another set of wheels. A custom rear diffuser is currently in the works.

Why the 240Z Will Always Be My Dream Car

The car scene has introduced me to new friends, valuable connections, and a supportive car family that shares my passion. There’s no other car I could see myself in. This 240Z is my dream car, and I built it exactly how I wanted.

Further Reading

• Datsun 240Z Review: The Iconic Japanese Sports Car
• How the 240Z Helped Define JDM Car Culture in America
• Restored Glory: The 1971 Datsun 240Z and the JDM Passion Behind It
• Modified 1971 Datsun 240Z with Triple Weber Carbs
• Restored 1970 Datsun 240Z Series 1 with L28 Mikuni Build
• 1973 LS1 Swapped Datsun 240Z: George Nguyen
• 1973 Datsun 240Z: Dylan Brinkworth

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