1981 Datsun 280ZX GL 2+2

1981 Nissan 280ZX Although the old guard won't enjoy hearing it, Japanese cars are increasing in collectability. We're seeing spikes in prices of cars like the Datsun 2000 roadster, the Toyota 2000GT, and the early Mazda Cosmo, so there's no sense in fighting it. The Datsun/Nissan Z-car now has a history that's nearly as old as some of our beloved American iron such as the Camaro, Firebird, and Dodge Challenger. And for a generation that grew up in the 70s, the Nissan 280ZX was something we eagerly read about in the pages of our favorite car magazines. For consignment, a 1981 Nissan 280ZX with a title verified 60,296 actual miles. With its long pointed nose, short sloping rear, long wheelbase, and flat rear fascia, the shape is undeniably distinctive, ever present on the roads in the 70's and 80's as daily drivers, they are now highly desirable collectibles. This one presents in original condition with areas that will need some TLC, and other parts that will need nothing. Exterior Brown was still quite popular in the early 80's, evidenced by the Light Brown Metallic on our car which even colors the covers of the inset headlights, a key field mark that adds to its uniqueness. A ribbed rocker panel trim piece adds some contrast as does the polished B-pillar trim and 14-inch wheels. The long hood is enhanced by a center bulge flanked by black vents matching the plastic cowl grille. From behind, there's no mistaking the 3 color tail lights over a straight bumper and at the base of the flat hatch window. Side body molding is a remnant of the 70's and 80's and prevented door dings, but also cut through the smooth panels of the midline. And the panels on this car are straight, the paint is nice, and the metalwork is in good shape. Where it shows its age is on black painted parts such as the door handle surrounds, the emblems, and the front window trim. There's also clear coat and oxidation issues on the wheels, but from 20 feet, you couldn't tell. Interior Beige and tan door panels are nice compliments to the exterior brown are in decent condition with some light, general patina. The bucket seats have aftermarket covers and so do the 2+2 seats in back. The brown steering wheel is in great shape and wears a Z emblem, all leading to a sizable instrument cluster with essential gauges and idiot lights in a symmetrical descending pattern. More toward the middle, we find additional gauges, (and digital clock), coved and canted towards the driver in a race car inspired design. Below that, the standard A/C panel and a nickel backed AM/FM/Cassette radio panel, framed in brown plastic. On the dash itself, a fitted cover protects the sun exposed surface that has some telltale cracks. In the center console the shifter takes its place and once again, it's metal over plastic. The beige carpet is nice in the footwells outside of the brown rubber mats, but in the cargo areas it's a bit soiled. But this cargo area also has loose and cracked material on its walls and some staining of the plastic, along with some wear on the weatherstripping. The headline on this solid roof car is in good condition. Drivetrain With a body matched cam cover in the engine bay, we find the driver quality 2.8 liter SOHC inline 6 cylinder rated at 145 horsepower. Fuel is regulated by the Bosch L-Jetronic EFI system and a Jatco L3N 3-speed automatic transmission is behind it, sending power to the rear wheels and 3.54 gears. Power brakes are onboard as front discs and rear drums. Undercarriage Aged and dirty, but we've seen worse. We note some oil on the oil pan, some dampness near a brake line, general grime on the knuckles and rear diff, and both boots of the rack and pinion system are torn and detached. A single exhaust carries a stock style muffler before wrapping behind the gas tank and finding a chrome tip. Independent MacPherson strut suspension is supplied front and rear. Drive-Ability It was the daily driver t