1983 Datsun 280ZX Turbo 2.8 L six,turbo from North America

Summary:

Great classic drivers

Faults:

Replaced front ball joints and suspension bushings.

Like all Z cars there is some rust.

General Comments:

These cars run better overall than most of the collectable classics, in fact they compete very well with many new cars in terms of driveability, and overall performance. The 74 240Z and the 81-83 280ZX turbo are the choice models.

They are much cheaper than a classic Mustang or Camaro, and more fun to drive.

RUST... they all have it!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th April, 2001

13th May 2003, 17:08

I am a owner of a 1981 Dastun 280zxTurbo all original with only 51,000 miles and not a lick of rust. This was my very first car at 16 years old. Now 16 years later and still haven't driven a car as much fun as my Z.

29th Feb 2004, 19:28

Hi I own a 1981 280z turbo with every option given to this in 81, with only 58,000 miles, all orginal including paint and with out a ounce of rust on this car whats so ever.thanks much robbie.

7th Sep 2007, 21:30

Hi I have a 1983 280zx turbo. I just love how the car is so unique with lots of power; would not give it up for nothing.

1983 Datsun 280ZX Turbo 2.8L FI Inline 6 from North America

Summary:

More horse power than you thought you paid for!

Faults:

For a car that was poorly taken care of, all it needed to return it to stock was vacuum hoses, spark plugs, spark plug wires, distributor cap and slave cylinder.

After I had the engine and tranny rebuilt the bell housing broke where the clutch was mounted to it, and where I live finding a new bell housing was impossible so I had it welded and so far it has held in great.

General Comments:

A little added information, the women that owned the car before me thought you changed the oil about every 20,000 miles (I am NOT lying). I have been building Nissan race cars for the last 5 years ranging from Altima touring cars, to a Silvia with SR20DET engine with over 310 HP so in my opinion you can't tear the cars up, they are just too well made and a fun car to build for more HP.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 4th April, 2001

1983 Datsun 280ZX Turbo 2.8 liter turbo from North America

Summary:

A piece of Japanese racing history

Faults:

Had to replace a couple of brittle vacuum hoses... the car idled low prior to the repair.

Replaced the alternator.

Replaced the turbo after developing a vibrating sound while boosting... even though it made this noise, the turbo worked fine... it was more of an annoyance.

General Comments:

I love these cars. The classic lines mean business and the overall sporty look gives it a personality of its own. These cars stand out! I haven't had a day where I didn't get the approving nod, thumbs up or just the plain stare from other people... LOL.

The performance is unbelievable for its age... the engine is easy enough to work on even for a shade tree mechanic like myself. The car handles really well, turbo spools at low rpm's and acceleration is very quick. The turbo gives you the seat of the pants feeling. And most importantly, the L series engine are one of the toughest engines that Datsun has produced. If you want to get the most bang for your money, you won't go wrong with investing in a good running Turbo ZX.

Oh and I forgot to mention that I've surprised many poor unsuspecting souls who try to intimidate my Datsun... this 18 year old GT car still has what it takes to swim with the big fish.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 10th March, 2001

12th Mar 2001, 07:26

I have an '82 turbo with 75,000 original miles. I bought it with 73,000. It is the first auto sports car I have owned and it is fun and fast! I owned a '82 non-turbo in 86 and it was one of the best cars if not the best I have owned. I plan on lowering it and other mods. The z'x are reliable cars. I am looking for a 90 or newer 300 now. I test drove one and it was fun. The interior is more racy and has more inside.

Rick.