1979 Datsun 280ZX 1979 review from North America
"The 280s are fun to look at, drive, and work on and have a distinct, attractive appearance"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Well, We bought the car, the guy was the original owner. He thought that the clutch was shot. It was just a clutch cylinder.
With 83k miles, this beast is still a baby. It runs very rough, but that is due to the fact that it's been sitting in a barn since 1990.
Moisture got under the cover and ruined the paint on the hood. There is very little rust with the exception of the hood.
During the time it was sitting, mice got in it and tore up the back seats a little because the car was stored with the back seats folded down. The mice totally infested this car and it has a VERY strong and nasty smell.
General comments?
The Datsun 280ZX is (in my opinion) one of the most unique Asian production sports cars ever built.
I say this for several reasons.
The fuel injected straight six is an extremely rare motor. The body design has no equal. Highly collectable in my opinion.
I can't complain about the price tag. I gave a whooping $500 for this treasure.
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![]() ![]() | Potentially the most amazing car I've ever seen |
![]() ![]() | 1979 - 280ZX 2.8 normally aspirated This is a good, reliable car in any of it's forms |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | Straight 6 fuel injected Manual |
| Performance marks | |
| Reliability marks | |
| Comfort marks | |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | |
| Distance when acquired | 83000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 83000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 19th April, 2002 |



