interesting discussion.
Peter to make an exact replica of a 2 seater like most guys said it ain't worth it. but i believe it is possible to improve the profile of the 2+2.
Just before i wrote of my 2+2, I was planing on making the 260z nicer on profile.
As I had issue with my sunroof and wanted to remove it i was planing in removing the hump and modifying the rear 1/4 glass to suit so it looks more sleek like a 240z does.
I spent lot of time thinking,measuring and photoshoping this idea. Even had all the parts ready to do the update. (photoshoping was done using same size pic of a 240z profile and matching as it was on my window mock up in real so pretty close to what it will look like).
Stage 1. The gutter line is somewhat following the line of the 240z just longer. If you look carefully on the 240z the rear section the roof height is similar height from gutter line from windscreen all the way to the rear hatch.
On the 260z 2+2 the front section is similar to 240z in height but drastically increases 5cm or so into the roof. at the back u got almost 1.5" of extra height for the back seats.
To do this i would have carefully cut the roof line with a dremel tool (or equivalent small cut off disk. you don't want heat to distort the roof ) take the hump part out. Lower the rear tailgate subframe (the inner panel) accordingly. if cut properly and on correct angle the roof line should follow the new contour of the gutter lip. the lips will be need to extend as well to take into account the new 1/4 glass.
Trim the top part of the rear 1/4 panels to suit the new roof line.
(seen this done on one of the hot rod doco's in USA which gave me the initial idea) basically just lowering the roof skin.
Stage 2.Tailgate will have to be slightly modified as well to follow the new roofline. Few hrs with hammer and dolly would get it into shape.
Stage 3.using 2 seater rear 1/4 glass and 2+2.
Replace the rear end of the 2+2 with the 2 seater version to get that unique notched rear.
To do this:
Place the 240z glass over the 2+2 one till the both top and bottom part of the 240z glass aligns up with the 2+2. Mark it and cut and shut the two pieces. You will notice the glass is slightly longer. hence the reason for extending the gutter slightly more to accommodate it.
since its straight glass no rear curve to it. make a template out of correct thickness plywood and take it to glass people to cut u a new one.. i was quoted approx $50each.
Stage 4.Modifying the rear 1/4 panels to suit the new 1/4 glass.
this could be done few different ways.
easiest would be to get the same section of a 2 seater. cut and shut it in. and your done.
alternatively is to cut the 1/4 panel and make a new lip following the new 1/4 glass. bit more for the skilled.
On the end should look like this
Before
After
Its not for the faint hearted or people with low panel beating skills. It would be fairly involved but in my opinion very "dooable" for an average panel beater (a breeze for an old school panel beater) .
It be very unique without actually touching any structural part of the car. What I didn't mention is the mods required to inside trimming as well but if you got through the first 4 stages that will be easy.
Pitty I never got to do it. Both of my cars now are 2 seaters so no need.
Maybe one day when all my project are finished is to do up another 2+2 with this in mind and few other crazy ideas I have bouncing in my silly head. (got to stop watching hot rod shows give me bad ideas
)
If anyone is serious about this I will gladly share more info.
PS: Mick that photochop wouldnt work 2+2 door glass is lot higher at the back than the 2 seater. plus looks erm ........ yeah. stay away from photo chopping please
