Description

Perhaps the truest test of a design is how well it ages, and the Z-car showcases that point brilliantly. This 1983 280ZX Turbo was not only a legitimate performance threat in 1983, but today it finds itself a much-sought collector's item from the glory days of Japanese sport/luxury coupes.

Datsun (AKA Nissan) worked hard to keep the Z-car fresh, and by 1983, the design was more than a decade old. That said, it was still a handsome car with classic long nose/short deck styling that was still in fashion even after so many years. This nicely preserved top-of-the-line Turbo model has led a charmed life, showing just 59,429 original miles and obvious signs of care from day one. The original paint is probably about as nice as it gets after three decades and it was always one of the Z's more attractive colors, both high-tech and timeless at the same time. The shape is still classic Z-car, but a few subtle updates kept it competitive with newer upstarts in the market and there's no way to miss that offset NACA duct on the hood which feeds the boosted engine. More remarkable preservation in the rubber components, which are still soft and supple and not UV-damaged, the urethane bumpers are still in excellent shape, and even the taillights have bright, clear lenses.

The slick gray and black cloth interior is definitely a product of the '80, more Buck Rogers than Lemans, but the upholstery has held up extremely well and looks right in the vintage sports car. The seats are surprisingly supportive given the Z's luxury/touring image in 1983, and there's a full set of instruments monitoring all the engine's vitals. These cars almost always came loaded with gear, including A/C, power windows and locks, and cruise control, and a glance at the original window sticker will give you an idea of just how much stuff was standard, with almost everything showing "N/C" for "no charge." Nice! The only notable upgrade from the original spec is a newer AM/FM/CD stereo head unit that's probably a big upgrade over the original head unit. There is no back seat, being a true 2-seater, and the trunk area remains in excellent shape with the original T-top bags still secured under the Tie-down straps.

The turbocharged 2.8 liter inline-six was Nissan's best bet for keeping the Z competitive with the debut of the new GM F-bodies with V8 power. Still silky smooth and a joy to drive, the fuel injected turbo motor provided a turbine-like rush of power with a flat torque curve that made it feel light on its feet. The engine is awash in hoses and cables, but the basics are quite durable and given the car's low mileage and excellent maintenance, it should be good to go for a good many years. Backed by a rare 5-speed manual transmission, it has a burly baritone voice as you run it through the gears. The suspension is fully independent and there's a disc brake at all four corners, so it remains quite contemporary underneath. The excellent care shows in the clean undercarriage, and it's pretty clear that this car has never seen more than a passing rain storm. Handsome alloy wheels look incredibly clean and wear newer 205/60/15 Dunlops all around.

Documented with its original window sticker, manuals, and other promotional materials, this 2-owner 280ZX is a future collectable that is a blast to drive and a true nostalgia piece for those of us who where there. Call today!