Vehicle Description
Forerunner to the Nissan brand of today, Datsun gave the automotive
world a pretty substantial shaking when they first introduced their
line of Z sports cars and this 1977 Datsun 280Z is a sterling
example of their handiwork. It benefitted from a number of years of
the brand's refinement, featuring its original engine with fuel
injection and very clean condition both inside and out that
reflects the attentive care it's received over the years.
The long, sporty hood/ compact cabin configuration the Z offers had
been largely reserved for much more expensive cars when it was
introduced, serving notice to competing manufacturers that the
model would be a serious player in the sports car niche. The 280Z
carries a look closely mirroring that of its iconic predecessors,
but with some subtle styling cue upgrades to set it apart,
including bumpers both fore and aft that feature more modern
looking black rubber extensions as they curve to meet the rest of
the car - the ones on display here are in clean condition and show
no signs of oxidation. This specimen of Datsun's stylistic
handiwork wears brown metallic paint that's sharply offset by
contrasting lighter pinstripes and it presents well - it's got a
strong shine and teams with clean-looking trim and the clear glass
that surrounds the cabin to give this '77 a nice, vital look.
The brown interior has a look reminiscent of more costly sports
cars of its era - almost certainly another source of concern for
its competitors. With the exception of one small cut on the
driver's seat, the seating is in sharp condition, with the pair of
high-backed buckets well contoured for support and featuring
integrated headrests. Between the buckets sits a center console
that also looks nice and clean as it positions its manual shifter
within easy reach. Below, the matching brown carpeting lining the
floor appears to have recently been steam cleaned, while above the
headiner still fits snugly and shows no tears. In addition to the
nostalgia this pivotal Japanese sports car evokes, it also provides
a comfortable driving experience - its air conditioning blows
strong and cold and the AM/FM/cassette stereo sitting at the center
of the dash is in good working order. Beyond the factory-issued
steering wheel, the assortment of gauges is also all fully
functional and easily readable. Raise the rear hatch and you'll be
greeted by a respectable amount of storage space, lined by plush
carpeting.
A 2.8 liter engine sits in an engine compartment that looks like
it's received plenty of attention to keep it in its current, tidy
state - its inner fenders show no grime and all wiring is neatly
routed. The motor features electronic fuel injection in place of
its predecessor's carburetors for markedly better all-weather
performance and teams with a smooth-shifting 5-speed manual
transmission to make up a drivetrain that acquits itself well. With
the 280Z's efficient suspension geometry and low-slung profile,
it's also an agile, vintage performer that provides a very
compelling driving experience. This pivotal piece of Japanese
automotive engineering rolls on its set of 15" Konig wheels,
wrapped with BF Goodrich Advantage T/A tires that have plenty of
miles left in them. Below, the undercarriage reflects a solid
condition that suggests this classic has been kept off salted roads
during its lifetime.
Looking fresh and driving great, this 1977 Datsun 280Z offers the
chance to put an important piece of automotive history in your
garage. Call today!
