Available for auction is this 1978 Datsun 280Z 4-speed Resto-mod. Powered by an overhauled driveline, this restored 280Z has seen a host of upgrades most notably CX Racing coilovers, ceramic coated headers, aluminum radiator with electric cooling fans, a custom repaint, 15″ Work wheels and much more. This clean 280Z, showing 78K-miles (TMU) on the odometer, is being offered for sale with a clean title by its seller out of Carlsbad, California.
This 280Z, reportedly following rust repairs and other bodywork 4-years ago, is finished in Nissan Orange with an added pearl effect, detailed photos can be seen in the image gallery. Significant cosmetic modifications during at this time included an aftermarket polyurethane front valance, rear spoiler and louvers, hood vents, Fairlady Z fender mirrors and rear bumper delete. Flaws are limited to some rock chips and stress cracks as can be viewed in the image gallery. Work Equip 03 wheels are wrapped in Toyo R888 tires with a reported 2000 miles of use, according to the seller.
Inside, the interior features reupholstered black seats with leather inserts. Some notable items have been replaced including the center console, carpets, dash cap, shift boot, shift knob, while a Momo steering wheel was added. All gauges are said to work and have been tested for accuracy- the tachometer was replaced with a factory NOS unit. A period-correct AM/FM radio remains mounted in the center stack, while a Kenwood amplifier powers two Polk 6x9 speakers. Originally an A/C car, the heating and air conditioning systems are said to have been removed though the heater core and plumbing is still intact making it easy to reinstall these features if the buyer wishes.
The 2.8 L straight-six produced 138 HP and 144 lb-ft of torque when new. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a 4-speed manual gearbox. This 280Z benefits from a significant engine overhaul including new pistons, rings, and rebuilt fuel injectors. Additionally, a new clutch, aluminum radiator, water-pump, alternator, Petronics rev-limiter, and Bosch ignition coil have been installed. The exhaust system consists of ceramic-coated headers feeding a Magnaflow muffler while a new Magnaflow catalytic converter has replaced the factory unit, according to the seller. A fresh and full valve job and oil pressure test were performed by Aero Auto of San Diego within the last 1500 miles. The seller reports that the engine runs well, does not smoke and benefits from a recent oil change. A video demonstrating a cold start, hot start and test drive can be seen in the gallery.
Included in this sale will are some supporting documentation for the works completed and a clean title. This well cared 280Z is the ideal classic for the enthusiast who wishes to break out of the pack.
Comments (40)
Wow many thanks!!! I think this was a win-win. Can’t say enough good things about PCARMARKET ! Thanks again all watching and bidding.
With a modest upgrades you won’t believe how nicely these first generation of the cars drive. Enjoy the hunt!
Sold for $26,500
Offer in the amount of $25,000
So close!!! What a exciting auction. My sincerest thanks to all involved. Feel free to reach out if you have any further questions.
Congrats!
What a beauty, congrats!
congrats!
Bid in the amount of $24,250
Exciting action! Thank you for all the interest in bidding guys.
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Good morning! Just touching base on this final day of bidding. I’m here to serve if you have any further questions. Thanks again for all your interest.
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@Beckaircooled LOVE IT!!!..... "so you're saying I have a chance".....:)
@pcardream That’s a great question. I’ve had a bunch of old cars. In my experience driving a 43 year old car across country it’s always a bit of a gamble. My son and I have made a Drive such as you’re describing in a different car, 944 Porsche, and it was fantastic and memorable. It did however require a couple basic hand tools LOL. If you’re willing to gamble on the adventure go for it! Otherwise I would recommend simply having it transported. I’ve had 16 vintage cars and about half of them would make the drive you were describing without issue.
As they say on Top Gear and the Grand Tour, “ What could possibly go wrong!? “Lol
That said if I had to pick simply what are the car would make it or not I would say likely it would indeed make it just fine.
Under my ownership I made my best effort to get it to be a totally reliable car. Acid washing the gas tank was the key step in this car becoming a daily driver. It’s an expensive hassle on these particular cars but well worth it.
In fact yesterday I was daydreaming about driving it up to see my buddy in Palo Alto which is about a 7 hour drive for me if the car does not sell here.
So there you go. I have successfully not answered your question with great enthusiasm. Thanks for your interest and your continued bidding!
Beck
Sent from my iPhone
@Beckaircooled Hi Bob. I would be an absolute dream for me to fly out to CA with my son and drive this back to IL. Based on your experience with this car, what is your opinion on a multi-day, 2,000 mile journey in this car? Not worried about comfort as much as reliability..... What is your opinion based on how it's performed under your ownership?
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Hello folks! I’m happy to offer one of my all time favorite 70s cars. It’s really hard to let it go but cash is king. As an old air cooled guy I can vouch that this car can hold its own with the best of the 70s Porsche offerings just short of the turbo. It was a true bucket list car for me and hope it will be for you too! This car gets more attention on the street than my 914 and 911 combined . Z cars are dope. I’ll be here happy to assist in any way. Enjoy the auction!