Datsun 260Z 1978
General description :
AWESOME CAR, NEW PAINT, RECARO SEATS, 5 SPD, APPRECIATING CLASSIC, RUNS GREAT!
This beautiful dark metallic 1978 Datsun 280Z represents the best of the two-seat Z-cars that totally transformed the automotive landscape in the 1970s. As the latest models prove, the Z will always have a place in our garages and in our hearts, and this final year for the original 280 will likely keep a place of honor in the rapidly appreciating Japanese classic car market.
The first generation Zs like this one have a great European-inspired design that looks like a Jaguar E-Type that went to an Italian finishing school. But this one has a hint of something more. The Dark Metallic Charcoal is a full professional application of a modern color. It gives the coupe a deep luster that projects a sinister appearance over this sleek and straight body. This attitude is highlighted in even further with the factory Minilite wheels painted to match. Even the traditionally chrome bumpers were part of the respray, which turns the once cheerful energy absorbing front bumper into something like a cowcatcher for this fierce freight train of a Z. The luster of the dark metallic paint even rivals the shine on the remaining brightwork on the window trim and badges.
The interior backs up this aggressive performance attitude with a few nice upgrades. The newer Recaro black and gray sports buckets are a perfect placement, and Grant GT steering wheel looks right at home. Everything else is the great engineering that came straight from Datsun/Nissan. In true Japanese fashion, they took what was already great about contemporary sports cars and enhanced it with user-friendly design and unimpeachable reliability. As a result, the cockpit talks directly to the driver with no interference from quirky ergonomics or heavy control actions. Instead, the speedo and tach are set into twin round pods with a trio of auxiliary dials set up high on the dash. The shifter is perfectly positioned so you always find the right gear. And the AM/FM/CD stereo is a nice upgrade for your favorite tunes while blasting down a backroad.
The fuel-injected 2.8-liter inline-six is a fantastic motor. It's both rev-happy and torquey, which has helped Datsun/Nissan establish its reputation for fun cars. It still has that same baritone wail that epitomizes big-horsepower inline-sixes, and because it's a Nissan, you know the motor is reliable and smooth. The engine bay is as clean as the rest of the car, and it benefits from good maintenance, including new braided belts, wire, and hoses. Even the radiator has been replaced during its service history. But what you really should take note of is how this one has not been modified over the years, which is further evidence of living a good life. The 280Z was truly built for driving pleasure, and you can tell with features like the fully independent suspension, front disc brakes, and the optional five-speed manual transmission.
This one has everything you want in the last of the original Zs - classic looks, modern unique touches, and an unbelievably affordable price. It even comes with the owner's manual. Don't look twice or this one will be gone. Call today!!!
http://www.streetsideclassics.com/vehicles/0157-tpa/1978-datsun-280z
1978 Datsun 260Z is listed sold on ClassicDigest in Lutz by Streetside Classics for $16995.
Car Facts
Car type : Car Make : Datsun Model : 260Z Engine size : 0.0 Model Year : 1978 Sub type : Coupé Location : Tampa Vehicle Registration : Normal
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About Datsun
Once upon a time in the mystical land of Japan, there was a small, unassuming car company called Datsun. Legend has it that the name "Datsun" was created when someone dropped a bunch of Scrabble tiles and thought, "Sure, that'll do!" Datsun started with small, quirky cars that made you wonder if they were more suited for a toy store than a car dealership.In the 1950s, Datsun had a brilliant idea: "Let's try our luck in the American market!" They shipped over the Datsun 1000, a car so tiny that even a clown could drive it comfortably. Americans scratched their heads but soon fell in love with its compact cuteness. It was like adopting a small, four-wheeled puppy.
As the '60s rolled in, Datsun unveiled the 240Z, a sports car that could outrun a samurai in flip-flops. It had the speed of a cheetah and a design that turned heads faster than a ninja on roller skates. The 240Z became an instant classic and showed that Datsun was more than just quirky little cars.
In the '70s, Datsun dropped the 510, a sedan with the agility of a ninja and a suspension so smooth, it could make you believe you were floating on a cloud. Families across America hailed it as the car that could carry everything – from groceries to grandmas – without breaking a sweat.
But the real magic happened when Datsun revealed the Datsun 510 wagon. It was like Mary Poppins' bag, fitting more stuff than seemed humanly possible. This wagon was an enigma, a mystery, and America couldn't get enough.
Then, in the '80s, Datsun pulled a fast one and changed their name to Nissan, leaving us all a bit befuddled. But they continued making fantastic cars that were zippier than a sushi chef on a Saturday night.
And that's the whimsical tale of how Datsun – or should I say, Nissan – took over the American market, one quirky yet lovable car at a time.
As for the most influential Datsun models and their specs:
Datsun 240Z: The 240Z was a sports car sensation. It featured a 2.4-liter inline-six engine, producing around 150 horsepower. With rear-wheel drive and a sleek design, it was a blast to drive and a style icon of its time.
Datsun 510: The Datsun 510, available as a sedan and wagon, was loved for its handling and durability. It typically came with a four-cylinder engine, producing around 96 horsepower, and was known for its agile suspension.
Datsun 510 Wagon: The Datsun 510 Wagon was like a Tardis, with a deceptively spacious interior. It shared the same engine as the sedan and provided exceptional versatility for families on the go.
These Datsun models left an enduring legacy with their quirky charm, performance, and practicality, making them cherished classics in the hearts of car enthusiasts and families alike.
Oh, one more thing...years after BMW made a copy or the 510 and decided to call it e30. Strange world!