classic japanese sports car vintage z manual air 1977 Datsun 280Z

Forerunner to the Nissan brand of today, Datsun gave the automotive world a pretty substantial shaking when they first introduced their line of Z sports cars and this 1977 Datsun 280Z is a sterling example of their handiwork. It benefitted from a number of years of the brand's refinement, featuring its original engine with fuel injection and very clean condition both inside and out that reflects the attentive care it's received over the years. The long, sporty hood/ compact cabin configuration the Z offers had been largely reserved for much more expensive cars when it was introduced, serving notice to competing manufacturers that the model would be a serious player in the sports car niche. The 280Z carries a look closely mirroring that of its iconic predecessors, but with some subtle styling cue upgrades to set it apart, including bumpers both fore and aft that feature more modern looking black rubber extensions as they curve to meet the rest of the car - the ones on display here are in clean condition and show no signs of oxidation. This specimen of Datsun's stylistic handiwork wears brown metallic paint that's sharply offset by contrasting lighter pinstripes and it presents well - it's got a strong shine and teams with clean-looking trim and the clear glass that surrounds the cabin to give this '77 a nice, vital look. The brown interior has a look reminiscent of more costly sports cars of its era - almost certainly another source of concern for its competitors. With the exception of one small cut on the driver's seat, the seating is in sharp condition, with the pair of high-backed buckets well contoured for support and featuring integrated headrests. Between the buckets sits a center console that also looks nice and clean as it positions its manual shifter within easy reach. Below, the matching brown carpeting lining the floor appears to have recently been steam cleaned, while above the headiner still fits snugly and shows no tears. In addition to the nostalgia this pivotal Japanese sports car evokes, it also provides a comfortable driving experience - its air conditioning blows strong and cold and the AM/FM/cassette stereo sitting at the center of the dash is in good working order. Beyond the factory-issued steering wheel, the assortment of gauges is also all fully functional and easily readable. Raise the rear hatch and you'll be greeted by a respectable amount of storage space, lined by plush carpeting. A 2.8 liter engine sits in an engine compartment that looks like it's received plenty of attention to keep it in its current, tidy state - its inner fenders show no grime and all wiring is neatly routed. The motor features electronic fuel injection in place of its predecessor's carburetors for markedly better all-weather performance and teams with a smooth-shifting 4-speed manual transmission to make up a drivetrain that acquits itself well. With the 280Z's efficient suspension geometry and low-slung profile, it's also an agile, vintage performer that provides a very compelling driving experience. This pivotal piece of Japanese automotive engineering rolls on its set of 15" Konig wheels, wrapped with BF Goodrich Advantage T/A tires that have plenty of miles left in them. Below, the undercarriage reflects a solid condition that suggests this classic has been kept off salted roads during its lifetime. Looking fresh and driving great, this 1977 Datsun 280Z offers the chance to put an important piece of automotive history in your garage. Call today!