1975 Datsun 280Z
EFI-Upgraded L28, Performance Built, California Car
Nice 1975 Datsun 280Z for sale. This nicely built and thoughtfully upgraded California car has benefited from substantial mechanical restoration and enthusiast ownership over the years. Finished in light metallic blue over a black interior, this early 280Z retains its classic S30 body lines while featuring a professionally rebuilt L28 inline-six upgraded with a modern electronic fuel injection system, performance exhaust, refreshed suspension, upgraded cooling system, and numerous reliability improvements throughout. Accompanying the car is an impressive stack of documentation including machine shop invoices, service records, and parts receipts documenting years of ongoing maintenance and mechanical sorting. The result is a very clean, well-sorted driver that maintains the iconic character of an early Z-car while offering significantly improved drivability and reliability for modern road use.
The 2.8-liter inline-six starts easily, idles smoothly, and delivers excellent power while benefiting from extensive mechanical upgrades and thoughtful sorting focused on reliability, drivability, and performance. Fitted with a modern electronic fuel injection conversion utilizing individual injectors, custom fuel rails, an Aeromotive adjustable fuel pressure regulator, upgraded ignition components, and modern fuse protection throughout, the car offers the drivability advantages of contemporary EFI tuning while still retaining the classic character and sound of Nissan’s legendary L-series engine. The engine bay presents exceptionally well overall with its factory-style “NISSAN OHC” valve cover, upgraded aluminum radiator, electric cooling fan, ceramic-coated tubular headers, and numerous restored or refinished components throughout. Fuel, cooling, ignition, clutch hydraulic, and supporting mechanical systems appear to have been comprehensively addressed during the build with newer hoses, fittings, filters, wiring, and upgraded hardware throughout. The 5-speed manual transmission shifts smoothly through all the gears, and accompanying records document ongoing servicing and replacement of various clutch and hydraulic components as part of the car’s continued restoration and mechanical sorting. Overall, this is a very well-sorted and confidence-inspiring early Z-car that blends classic styling and analog driving feel with tasteful modern upgrades that make it significantly more enjoyable and usable on modern roads.
The undercarriage presents as clean, solid, and nicely sorted overall, showing extensive mechanical attention and thoughtful upgrades throughout. A full stainless steel performance exhaust system has been fitted featuring tubular headers, a high-flow catalytic converter, and a polished performance muffler with clean routing and quality welds throughout. The front suspension has been refreshed and upgraded with a larger sway bar and performance end links to improve handling while maintaining good street manners, and the steering and suspension components appear clean and well-maintained overall. Modern radial tires are mounted on restored wheels, while the brake system components also appear refreshed as part of the build. The floor pans, chassis rails, and surrounding underbody structure present as solid overall with only light surface patina in isolated areas consistent with a properly maintained and mechanically sorted 1975 Datsun 280Z. The engine oil pan, transmission housing, steering components, and surrounding underbody systems are notably clean and dry, reinforcing the impression of a carefully assembled, performance-oriented Z that still retains its classic character.
This special 1975 Datsun 280Z has benefited from substantial mechanical restoration, thoughtful upgrades, and years of enthusiast ownership, making it an excellent value for its next owner. With its rebuilt and EFI-upgraded L28 inline-six, refreshed suspension, upgraded cooling and exhaust systems, and extensive supporting documentation, it offers a rare combination of classic Z-car character and improved modern drivability. Whether taken to the next cosmetic level or simply enjoyed as-is, this is a well-sorted and highly usable early Z that is ready to be driven and appreciated.
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Call or text Donn with questions, shipping, and financing options or for a link to the hi-resolution photos at 707-332-8331.