1980 Datsun 280ZX from North America - Comments

It has a new radiator and the pressure blew the heater core. But, I live in Yuma, Arizona, so don't need a heater very often.

I had forgotten that I had lusted for a 280ZX when they were new. Now at 63 years old, I get one. I bought mine from my son who put on 12,000 miles in a little over a year. It is everything the Cadillac wasn't; rough, raw, noisy, rattles- in-short just a lot of fun to drive. I drove it 675 miles home with no problems. Sunday holiday traffic down CA I-5, speeds from stop and go to 90 plus. I use it daily for work and would like to try a longer trip with my wife.

Hi Dad! Glad you like the car. (Yeah, I'm the son who sold him the Z)

One very important fact that my dad failed to mention was that this car has 366,000 miles on it. Original engine. No smoke, just runs like a bat out of.. well, let's just say it runs. I ran it commuting to my job in San Jose on the back roads with twisties, and it loved every minute of those roads.

Handling: An A+ in a traditional sense. Power slides? No Problem! Gear down coming in to the corner, floor it through the corner as it winds out from about 3500 -5500, and it just feels better and better. Back end hanging out, tires squalling, just be ready to counter-steer when the back end grips again!

These L motors are solid. Bulletproof. Don't be afraid of miles on these cars if they are not rusted out.

Just an update, Jan. 16, 2004. The car now has 386,000 miles and goes 1,000 miles or more on a quart of oil. Still a thrill to drive and cheap to own. A two year registration in Arizona was about $35.00, gas mileage is about 22 MPG.

Lots of legroom and the pedals fit just right. I had starting problems and the parts counter said the battery was shot. Dropped in a new one and still would not turn over. It seems the key switch has worn and the key has to be cocked up a little and now it starts every time. The fan belt broke last summer going across the desert to El Centro, CA. Caught a ride to Holtville and got a mechanic take me back and install it for $25.

Get a Z and have fun.

Glen.

I just purchased a 1980 280 ZX; a magnificent project just waiting for some tender loving care: Driving her reminds me that I cling to life like a ring on a skeleton's finger...