1975 Datsun 280Z 2+2 Coupe

The Scottsdale Auction|16 January 2020, 11:00 MST|Scottsdale, The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa

1975 Datsun 280Z 2+2 Coupe
Chassis no. GHLS30-004842
Engine no. L28-021683

2,753cc SOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
170bhp at 5,800rpm
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
Front Disc – Rear Drum Brakes

*Incredible original survivor under 8500 original miles
*Legendary Japanese sports car
*One of the best performing sports cars of its day
*Improved model with reliable fuel injection
*Offered with original tools and spare tire

THE DATSUN Z-CARS

Upon realizing the importance of offering affordable sports cars to compete mainly with the English and Italian brands, Nissan began producing the successful series of Fairlady roadsters and soon after, work began on a new line of GT cars that would be stylish, innovative, fast, and relatively inexpensive.

The Datsun 240Z was introduced in 1970. The 6-cylinder engine was a derivation of the Datsun 1600 'four' and with 151bhp and 146 pound-feet of torque, the Z could accelerate from 0-60 in just 8 seconds. On the track, the 240Z dominated the SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) C-Production category for 10 years from 1970 through 1979, gaining a formidable reputation as a Porsche 911-beater.

In order to meet the more stringent federal requirements placed on motor vehicles, in 1975 Datsun introduced the technically updated 280Z. Datsun specified Bosh K-Jetronic fuel injection placed on a slightly enlarged engine, and managed to preserve the performance of their flagship "Z". This was a remarkable feat during an era when many performance cars took a serious cut in the power department. The 280Z was able to post numbers on par with the original Z but added a new level of flexibility and reliability thanks to the injection system.

The 280Z was offered in the surprisingly attractive 2+2 configuration that added a good deal of practicality without spoiling the pure shape of the original.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This particular Datsun 280Z was purchased by its original owner in Olympia, WA in 1975. She would drive the car sparingly for the next seven years and practiced meticulous care. After starting a family in 1982, she took the car off the road. It would remain in her garage on Bainbridge Island, WA until very recently when it was purchased by the consigner.

Since trading hands, the car has been put through a full service and recommissioned. This service included reconditioning the fuel tank, flushing all fluids, and the fitment of a new OEM replacement fuel pump. Amazingly, this was all that was needed to bring the car to running order.

This 280Z offers greater usability and reliability over the previous Z while still maintaining the classic styling of the original. Today, this particular 280Z is in remarkable time-capsule condition. Original low mileage 280Z are seldom seen, as most were used by enthusiastic owners. The example shown here makes for an excellent addition into any collection of sports cars.

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