1982 Datsun 280ZX Turbo

Description

In the early '80s, when domestic automakers were wondering how to make a high performance V8 engine work with current emissions controls, this 1982 Datsun 280ZX Turbo delivered amazing performance for the dollar. And while the familial resemblance is instantly recognizable, the 280ZX Turbo was a big step forward, delivering perhaps the biggest bang for the buck in the late 1980s.

This incredibly well preserved 280ZX Turbo has had only two owners, and it's obvious that they both loved the car. With that turbo motor and cool two-tone paint, it's arguably the most desirable of all the 2nd generation Z cars. The finish looks extremely impressive given its age and the paint technology of the time, and there's just no question that this car has been very well maintained and babied since it was new. There's no evidence of major damage or repairs, and the car overall has a lovely patina that is a hallmark of all genuinely original cars. The doors open and close properly, the hatch fits tightly without any squeaks or rattles, and the big hood with functional NACA ducts latches with a gentle push instead of a slam. Trim pieces are in equally good shape with no signs of fading from exposure to the sun, and all the brightwork (what little there is) remains bright and shiny.

The high tech gray leather interior remains in very good condition throughout, from the carpets which show only light use, to the seats that show only modest comfort marks in the high-wear areas. The foam underneath remains comfortable and firm, and doesn't feel brittle as it does on many cars of this vintage. The gauges are all big, round, and legible, with auxiliary gauges in their own separate round pods in the middle of the dash, a Z-car hallmark that continues to this day. The original radio is gone, replaced by a modern AM/FM/CD stereo head unit and a neat fascia plate that makes it all look well-integrated. Options include factory A/C, power windows, and cruise control, and T-tops are a very desirable feature on these cars. And you'll also note that this 280ZX Turbo remains a true 2-seater, and not the less desirable 2+2 that was part of the same 1979 redesign.

The engine is a smooth-revving and great-sounding turbocharged 2.8 liter inline-six that is directly descended from the engines that powered the famous early Z cars. The horsepower wars were apparently back in a modest way, so Nissan engineers bolted a turbocharger to the silky smooth six to boost horsepower to 180. Performance for the time was impressive, as only the Porsche 911 and BMW M1 were faster that year. The engine bay shows signs of regular maintenance, but is otherwise highly original and untouched. There are no questionable modifications, no signs of damage or previous abuse, and everything is in place as the factory intended. The same holds true underneath, where it's clean and solid, with no signs of structural rust or damage. The 3-speed automatic transmission shifts easily, while the all-independent suspension and 4-wheel disc brakes deliver high performance without a penalty. It rides on a set of ARE alloy wheels wearing 205/65/15 radial tires.

There are many experts who believe that the day of the Z car as a legitimate collectable is not far off. This 280ZX offers the ideal combination of excellent preservation and ready usability, and the result is a car you can drive without guilt and show with pride. Call now!