For Sale at Auction: 1979 Datsun 280ZX in Owls Head, Maine

Offered here is a nearly all-original, beautifully preserved, non-turbo 1979 Datsun 280ZX two-seater, presented in its original beautiful copper brown livery with a cafe au lait interior, described by the seller as a "cream puff!" Representing the second generation of Nissan's iconic Z-car, the 280ZX refined the formula with a smoother ride, improved comfort, and a more modern cabin, while staying true to the lightweight, elegant character that made the Z line a sports car benchmark of the era. This example is finished without a T-top, giving it a cleaner, more original silhouette increasingly hard to find on surviving cars from this generation. Equipped with the desirable inline-six engine and a 5-speed manual transmission, the car has been well maintained and shows low mileage (66K) for its age. The ignition cylinder was replaced in 2022, and the car has been updated with an aftermarket Kenwood stereo featuring an auxiliary input and Bluetooth connectivity - a thoughtful nod to modern convenience without disturbing the car's otherwise original character. Long overshadowed by the earlier 240Z, the 280ZX has recently found its own audience among collectors. Clean examples have climbed dramatically in value since 2019, a pace that outstrips most modern sports cars. More broadly, a new generation of Millennial and Gen Z buyers is reshaping the collector market, and analog Japanese performance cars from the 1980s and 1990s have become one of the hobby's most sought-after segments. As appreciation for these earlier Z-cars continues to build, well-kept, original examples like this one are becoming harder to find in this condition. Reported by the consignor to be in excellent condition throughout - engine, body, chassis, tires, coachwork/interior, electrical, and transmission - with paint rated very good. Has been evaluated by classic car mechanics who pronounced it in unusually fine shape. Papers include original owner's manual and embossed Datsun guarantee card in name of the first owner. The consigner is the third owner, having bought it in 2021, and it's been garaged since. It sleeps all winter and starts right up ready to go each spring. This 280ZX presents as a genuine example ready to be enjoyed on the road or added to a collection of Japanese performance icons. Offered with Maine registration and Massachusetts title from previous owner.