Modified Datsun 260Z’s Dirty Secret Will Anger Purists

Modified Datsun 260Z's Dirty Secret Will Anger Purists

Interestingly, he got the idea from radio-controlled cars, which he used to build. Unfortunately, Wile couldn’t position the batteries as low as he would have liked, as it would have affected cabin space. “I’ve always wanted to do midship (mid-engined), handling-wise. I know midship is better than hanging the drive unit out back like Tesla does. I want it in the center so the car handles well.”

A battery pack and electric motor add significant weight to any car, especially one designed to be a lightweight sports car. Wile has attempted to keep mass down with fiberglass body panels and a polycarbonate rear windscreen. He even drilled holes into the door handles and side mirrors to keep it as light as possible. Overall, it weighs around 2,400 pounds.

Upgraded Wilwood brakes live behind the aftermarket ESR wheels, while the original headlights have been swapped for modern LED items to conserve energy. The glossy red shine doesn’t come from paint but rather a vinyl wrap sourced from 3M.

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