1976 Datsun 280Z

Description

This 1976 Datsun 280Z represents the best of the two-seat Z-cars that totally transformed the automotive landscape in the 1970s. This example has been under the care of one family all its life, which is just another reminder of how these Zs will always have a place in our garages and in our hearts. So a nicely restored version of the original generation 280 will likely keep a place of honor in the rapidly appreciating Japanese classic car market.

The 280Z did come in silver, but you know it never had the deep tones you see on this one. That's because this Z car has had a full professional respray during its restoration in 2007. And it continues to look nice today because there has only been about 2,000 miles put on the car since then. Of course, there's a lot more that catches your eye on this coupe. During the restoration it was given a full body kit. The front air dam, side ground effects, rear bumper, and spoiler have all been nicely integrated to give it a sleeker look. And the clear headlight covers appear downright European. But as much as this is a custom look, it does not betray the original spirit that made this a legend. You can see it on everything from classic sports car silhouette right down to the factory badging, including the cursive writing on the trunk lid.

The original Z-car was made for two, and this one sports inviting upgraded black buckets inside an exceptionally fresh interior. In true Japanese fashion, they took what was already great about contemporary sports cars and enhanced it with user-friendly design and unimpeachable reliability. As a result, the cockpit talks directly to the driver with no interference from quirky ergonomics or heavy control actions. Instead, the speedo and tach are set into twin round pods with a trio of auxiliary dials set up high on the dash. Just like the exterior, there have been some nicely integrated upgrades. For example, the steering wheel still has the iconic Z badge in the center, but it's now on a smaller diameter and gripper unit. You also have an AM/FM/CD stereo for the best in modern tunes, and the air conditioning is blowing cold with modern R134a.

The fuel-injected 2.8-liter inline-six is a fantastic motor. It's both rev-happy and torquey, which has helped Datsun/Nissan establish its reputation for fun cars. It still has that same baritone wail that epitomizes big-horsepower inline-sixes, and because it's a Nissan, you know the engine is reliable and smooth. This is the original motor to the car, and it received attention during the restoration, too. Plus, as mentioned before, this car has been in the care of one family all its life, and so it has been maintained in the exact way you're always wanting a classic to be. The 280Z was truly built for driving pleasure. That's why it has great grand touring features like the three-speed automatic transmission and power steering, as well as great handling features like the fully independent suspension and front disc brakes.

This one has everything you want in the last of the original Zs - classic looks, modern unique touches, and a great story. It even comes with restoration photos, restoration receipts, and title documentation. Don't look twice or this one will be gone. Call today!!!