The original was designed at the time of the 240Z (which I had always understood to be by Goertz rather than Yoshihiko Matsuo?) but not of course produced.
Goertz's roll in the 240Z design has long been debated, recently re-ignited by the death of Yutaka Katayama, former Nissan executive and undisputed "Father of the Z". Many sources perpetuate Goertz's claim but Nissan allows him credit only for inspiring and consulting the design process and not for the final product:
"After BMW, Goertz worked for a number of other car makers, including Porsche, Toyota & Nissan, although it’s difficult to pinpoint exactly what specific levels of involvement Goertz had, with with a lot of patchy sources and conflicting information clouding the facts.
People often believe Goertz was solely responsible for designing both the 2000GT and the 240Z because it’s been widely reported in the press as fact, with multiple publications citing Goertz as the "Father of the Z Car”. While most evidence suggests that he wasn’t solely responsible, he most likely had a strong influence on the design team. The issue came to a head in the 1980's with Nissan releasing this statement about Goertz's involvement with Nissan:
(A Correspondence Between Toshikuni Nyui of Nissan and Albrecht Goertz)
Dear Mr. Goertz:
At your request, we have examined the relevant evidence pertaining to the development of the highly successful Datsun 240Z which was first introduced in 1969.
You were retained by Nissan during the period from 1963 to 1965 as an automotive design consultant. During that period, you consulted with Nissan on the basic methods of styling a general sports car. You were also the sole design consultant on a two-liter sports car which Nissan was trying to develop as part of a joint venture with Yamaha. This car was not produced.
While it is our view that the design of the 240Z was the product of Nissan's design staff, Nissan agrees that the personnel who designed that automobile were influenced by your fine work for Nissan and had the benefit of your designs.
Sincerely yours,
Signed Toshikuni Nyui
NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
General Manager, Legal Dept.
Whatever the level of involvement Goertz had, it’s not hard to imagine that whatever he touched, he left his mark of genius. In November 2006, Albrecht von Goertz died at the age of 92, leaving behind an influence and legacy that will no doubt, live forever."
http://www.petrolicious.com/the-designer-s-story-albrecht-goertz
