1976 Datsun 280Z

The Datsun 280Z, produced between 1975 and 1978, balanced the attributes of a sports car and a grand tourer. Its styling was based on the 1965 Nissan concept and it was superseded by the 280ZX in 1978. The newer model had a similar appearance but was more refined and shared few parts with the 280Z. Both the 280Z and 280ZX were offered in two-seater coupe and 2+2 configurations, though all UK-market 280ZXs had rear seats. The handsome coupes are now appreciated as affordable modern classics.

Nissan launched the 280Z as a response to increasingly strict American emissions regulations, incorporating fuel injection and rubber impact bumpers. Other specification highlights included monocoque construction, independent suspension and front brake discs. It was only offered in the USA, where the earlier 260Z had been withdrawn. In all other markets, the 260Z remained on sale until 1978. Datsun updated the 280Z in 1977, fitting larger and more conspicuous bumpers, new hubcaps and a five-speed manual transmission with overdrive. Maximum power also rose from 149 to 170 bhp.

Late in 1978, Datsun replaced the 280Z with the 280ZX which was offered in all markets. Apart from the engine and driveline, little was shared with its predecessor. Major improvements ranged from more aerodynamic bodywork to a longer, more evenly balanced chassis. A targa roof option became available in 1980 and reached the UK a year later.

1981 saw the introduction of a turbocharged engine option for the American market. These cars also featured firmer rear suspension, a change that was added to all models in 1983. A 1982 facelift added a voice warning system, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering and manifold minor styling changes. Some of the final cars, produced in 1983, were offered with a digital dashboard and climate control.

Datsun fitted both the 280Z and 280ZX with the same basic engine, a 2753 cc naturally-aspirated straight six with the codename L28E. It features Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection and an overhead cam. In the American market, the 280ZX was also offered with a turbocharged version of the same engine from 1981. Early cars with this specification were exclusively fitted with a three-speed automatic, though cars from 1982 onwards could also be specified with a Borg Warner T-5 five-speed manual. Naturally aspirated cars from both generations could be ordered with a five-speed manual or Jatco 3N71 three-speed automatic, though early 280Zs were fitted with a four-speed manual.

The two generations of Datsun 280 offer divergent driving experiences. With a high torque output, soft ride and pronounced understeer, the 280ZX encourages sedate motoring. The 280Z, though far from fast, is more firmly sprung and offers engaging handling. Cars with power-assistance are fitted with a faster steering rack while the 280ZX features a wider and more luxurious interior than its predecessor.

Corrosion is a serious issue and the sills, frame rails and bumpers are particular problem areas. The rear hatch, wheel wells and bonnet can also be vulnerable to surface rust. Cracked dashes are a common interior blemish, though used dashboards occasionally become available. Tired turbochargers can be replaced but replacing the unit is a lengthy, involved process. General parts availability is excellent in the USA but poor in the UK.

With so many variables, there is a wide range of values and collectability in the 280Z and 280ZX market. Two-seater cars, valued for their purer styling, command higher prices than equivalent 2+2s, while cars equipped with a manual gearbox sell for more than those fitted with an automatic. For remaining truer to the original 240Z, 280Zs also have greater value amongst purists and sell for more than a 280ZX. It’s rare to see a 280ZX Turbo in the UK and they generally achieve higher prices than naturally aspirated imports.

The Datsun 280Z and 280ZX were preceded by the closely related 240Z and 260Z. These models had similar straight-six engines, albeit with lower displacement and horsepower than the 280s, and benefited from crisper styling and a lighter kerb weight. The 240Z was only available as a two-seat coupe, while the 260Z was offered with coupe and 2+2 bodystyles. Alternatives from other marques include the Jaguar XJS, Lotus Eclat and Toyota Celica Supra.