Vehicle Description
Even though the Datsun/Nissan Z-cars aren't ultra-valuable
collectors' pieces (yet!), that doesn't mean they aren't still a
ton of fun. With great handling and a balanced chassis, this 1982
Datsun 280ZX 2+2 provides a low-cost way into a pretty capable
sports car that can still put a big grin on the driver's face.
By looking at this car, you'd never really know that it has already
passed its 30th birthday. Thanks to the bright silver color, which
we believe is its original paint, it still looks sleek and
contemporary and not nearly as dated as some of the other cars
built in the early '80s. Typical of Japanese manufacturers of the
period, build quality is quite good with sharp gaps and pieces that
fit properly, and the paint job is holding up rather well,
suggesting great care since it was new. Without stripes or add-ons
like a rear wing, the car retains the clean look of the original
Z-car, which itself was often compared to the E-Type Jaguar; heady
company indeed. The bumpers are well-integrated into the overall
design and black body side moldings add some contrast as well as
being practical. The black anodized trim and rubber pieces strongly
suggest a car that has always been well-maintained and kept out of
the elements, and even the taillights are still bright and
clear.
The gray cloth interior shows a few hints of 1980s sensibility, but
the bucket seats remain supremely comfortable for long hauls and
supportive for aggressive maneuvers. No rips or tears in the
seating surfaces are another sign of careful ownership and the
original carpets remain in good shape thanks to the protection of
matching embroidered floor mats. Instrumentation is traditional Z,
with a big speedometer and tach for the driver and auxiliary gauges
in the center of the dash, a look that still shows up in today's
370Z. Just about everything was standard on the 280ZX, including
A/C, power windows, and an AM/FM/cassette stereo that was still
pretty cutting-edge in 1982. The 2+2 models offered a modest rear
seat that's good for kids or adults on short trips, and there's a
good amount of storage space under the rear hatch, which also
offers a full set of gray carpets that are in remarkable
condition.
The 2.8 liter inline-six provides silky smooth torque and a rorty
sound that is definitely reminiscent of great sports cars from
Europe. Thanks to fuel injection, it starts easily and pulls
smoothly without getting fussy, and despite the complex-looking
engine bay, these cars are rather easy to work on and parts are
still plentiful. There are no obvious modifications and it drives
like a stocker, so someone has definitely taken care of it along
the way and the clean look speaks highly of the dedicated
maintenance it has enjoyed. A 3-speed automatic transmission makes
it easy for anyone to drive and doesn't dilute the experience one
bit, as the suspension still grabs in corners and has a playful,
tossable nature that only rear-wheel-drive sports cars can manage.
Big disc brakes, a burly exhaust note, and handsome 6-spoke alloys
with 195/70/14 Michelin radials all contribute to the entertainment
factor.
The day is surely coming when good Z-cars will make the A-list, but
in the meantime, you'll be having too much fun behind the wheel to
worry about it. Call today!
