SIDDINS DATSUN REBUILT, READY FOR TARGA

Jon and Gina Siddins Datsun rebuilt and ready for Targa Tasmania – Photo: InSyde Media

After a crash in the 2018 event, the popular 1970 Datsun 240Z of Jon and Gina Siddins has been rebuilt and is ready for another tilt at Targa Tasmania from April 29-May 4.

The Queensland husband and wife duo dispatched the long-nosed coupe to the Morgan Park Raceway circuit at Warwick for a shakedown recently where it also unveiled new livery and sponsors.

The of the favourites in the Shannons Classic GT class, the Siddins’ have gathered a passionate following through their exploits in the much-loved original Z car.

The new livery retains the roof tribute to Warwick’s Bill Campbell passed away suddenly in February 2015.

Bill Campbell is the grandfather of the exciting Matt Campbell who has leapt to success in the European-based Porsche Supercup as a factory driver.

“We just have so much respect for the Campbell family and our little tribute on the roof of the Datsun is our way of continuing to honour a great person,” Gina Siddins said.

Repco Australia has joined the popular outfit known as Team 24oz (24 ounce) the Z car’s nickname in its heyday almost 50 years ago also known as the poor man’s Jaguar E-Type.

The famous auto parts company joins Dunlop Tyres, Fulton Enterprises, Bowdens Own, Graham Lusty Trailers, Other Side Productions, Colorworld Race Graphics, Datsun Parts and Needs (US), Datsun Nostalgic Auto (US) and Angryman Photography as backers of Team 24oz.

The Siddins duo were in line for a third consecutive Classic win last year when they had an on off-road excursion on the Weldborough Pass TS12 stage after engaging in a tense battle with the Michael Bray Holden Torana.

The Datsun’s original torquey L28 3.2litre six cylinder engine was spared however there was damage to the rear and the car was stripped back to a bare shell in the lengthy rebuilding process.

“We’ve been pushing it really hard to get it ready for this year,” Gina Siddins said.

“The shakedown went well and can’t wait to get back to Tassie and fly the flag for our sponsors and fans.”

Gina Siddins is her husband’s biggest fan, claiming the experienced competitor as her favourite all-time driver.

“Jon is an amazing driver and I get to see that first hand in the passenger’s seat watching his amazing left foot braking and his skill behind the wheel.

“Guys out at Morgan Park will tell you the same thing that he is such a talented driver along with the way he is so precise about the set-up of the car.”

The team has generated a large international following through its Facebook page, Team24oz, and a YouTube channel which is populated by in-car video clips updated during the event.

While the 2018 running of Targa Tas was predominantly dry there is a chance of variable conditions returning which will further heighten the action in an already entertaining Classic GT category.

More than 265 cars will set off over 2000km and 33 competitive stages for the 28th running of Targa Tasmania.

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