The Man Behind the Machine: Patrick Gaston and His Timeless Datsun 240Z
In the heart of Dallas, Texas, Patrick Gaston lives a life fueled by passion, precision, and a deep love for Japanese car culture. A software engineer by trade and a seasoned entrepreneur, Patrick is more than just a car enthusiast—he’s a builder, an innovator, and a man with an unwavering vision. From jumping out of planes as an ex-paratrooper to filing multiple patents as an inventor, his life has been anything but ordinary. But through it all, his love for JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) cars has remained a constant force.
The Beginning: A Love for JDM Culture
Growing up in a small town in Southwest Florida, Patrick was surrounded by the JDM car scene. Built Hondas roamed the streets, and the passion for Japanese engineering was infectious. It was inevitable that he would be drawn into this world, fascinated by the craftsmanship, performance, and unique styling of Japanese cars. Over the years, his admiration for JDM legends like the R34 GTR only grew stronger.
The Dream Car: A 1972 Datsun 240Z
In 2020, Patrick fulfilled a long-held dream—owning a 1972 Datsun 240Z. This wasn’t just any car purchase; it was the realization of a vision that had been years in the making. The sleek, long-nose GT coupe design of the 240Z captivated him. With its timeless aesthetics, it stood as a testament to the golden era of Japanese automotive design.
The car, however, wasn’t in pristine condition when he acquired it. Faded paint, rusted-out floors, electrical problems, and cracked interior panels meant a long road ahead. But for Patrick, this was an opportunity—a blank canvas to bring his vision to life.
The Build: A Modern Restomod with Classic Soul
Patrick had a clear direction from the start: a sleek, understated restomod that modernized the 240Z while preserving its soul. The goal was to strip away unnecessary bulk—removing the heavy bumpers and refining the exterior to highlight the car’s natural lines. Carbon fiber accents became a defining feature, merging classic style with contemporary performance materials.
The heart of the car remains the original L24 engine paired with a 4-speed transmission—pristine, yet untouched in its authenticity. While the temptation to chase higher performance lingers, Patrick wrestles with the idea of altering something so integral to the car’s spirit.
With the bulk of the modifications complete, the car today is a masterpiece in its own right. Though he considers the build “done,” he’s always exploring ways to push it further while maintaining the delicate balance between heritage and innovation.
A Love for Japanese Car Culture
Beyond the build itself, Patrick’s connection to Japanese car culture runs deep. From his childhood fascination with anime and video games featuring legendary JDM cars to real-life experiences in Japan, his appreciation for the culture has only grown.
One of his most memorable moments was visiting the famed Daikoku Parking Area—an automotive mecca where Japan’s most iconic modified cars gather under the neon glow of the city skyline. Seeing legendary Skylines, RX-7s, and Supras in one place, surrounded by passionate enthusiasts, was a surreal experience that solidified his love for JDM culture.
Japanese automotive philosophy, particularly the concept of Kaizen (continuous improvement), has greatly influenced Patrick’s approach to car customization. Every detail, no matter how small, contributes to a greater whole. Whether it’s aerodynamics, performance tuning, or refining the car’s stance, the pursuit of perfection never ends.
Future Plans and JDM Aspirations
While Patrick’s 240Z is a finished vision in many ways, he continues to explore performance upgrades. Preserving the spirit of the L24 engine while enhancing the car’s driving dynamics is a challenge he relishes.
Outside of his own build, his admiration for Japanese car culture extends to events like Tokyo Auto Salon and Nismo Festival—both of which he dreams of attending. The influence of Japan’s automotive world is undeniable, shaping not only his car but his philosophy on craftsmanship, aesthetics, and passion.
Why SAITOWORKS®?
In his search for brands that truly resonate with JDM culture, Patrick discovered SaitoWorks. It wasn’t just the apparel or the aesthetics that caught his attention—it was the storytelling, the authenticity, and the way SaitoWorks encapsulated the spirit of Japanese car culture.
“The designs aren’t just random graphics on a shirt,” Patrick says. “They come from the spirit of the scene—the cars, the streets, the people, and the passion behind it all.”
From banners to Omamori charms and clean, high-quality apparel, SaitoWorks stands out because it embodies the culture in a way that feels personal and real. For Patrick, wearing SaitoWorks isn’t just about style—it’s about representing the passion and history behind the JDM movement.
The Road Ahead
For Patrick, Japanese car culture isn’t just about the cars—it’s about the stories, the craftsmanship, and the people who bring these machines to life. His journey with the 240Z is a testament to the enduring appeal of JDM heritage, blending nostalgia with innovation, and honoring the past while pushing towards the future.
With each drive, each modification, and each new experience, Patrick continues to live out his dream—one that began in a small Florida town and now finds itself in the heart of Dallas, with a meticulously crafted Datsun 240Z that stands as a rolling piece of automotive history.
Spec Sheet
Engine & Transmission
- L24 (2.4L inline-6)
- Original 4-speed transmission
- 150bhp, 146lb-ft
Chassis, Wheels & Brakes
- BC Coilovers
- Techno Toy Tuning LCA
- 7″ Brake Booster Kit
- Diamond Racing Pro Street Wheels
Interior & Exterior
- Seibon Carbon Fiber Hood
- ZG Fender Flares
- Vintage Carbon Air Dam
- Vintage Carbon Front Bumper
1972 Datsun 240z
+150
Brake Horse Power
+146
LB/FT Torque
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Article written by Jon (Founder).
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