The 1975 Nissan/Datsun 280z

 

A Semi-Rare Classic

 

    (Corvette Stingray) 

 

     Ever wanted a car that looked similar to a Corvette Stingray but was a bit more rare and Japanese? If so you should take a look at the underrated but very sound 1975 Nissan/Datsun 280z. The 280z was created as a response to America's crazy carbon-dioxide emission laws and safety requirements at the time. Although the engine was increased to a 2.8 liter L28E I6, carbon-dioxide emissions were kept at a safe level through the installation of a Bosch-L jetronic fuel system. Together with this technology the engine received 149 horsepower and 163 lb. feet of torque at 4,400 rpm which was significant at the time. This power helps it reach a quarter-mile in 17.3 seconds at 81 mph. 0 to 60 is 9.3 seconds. If you're not satisfied with the original engine you can swap it for a Chevrolet JDM engine.

     Between 1997 and 1998, Nissan added the option of placing a 5-speed manual transmission into the car along with the choices of a 4-speed manual or a 3-speed automatic. All of the options or just the 3-speed automatic featured a "5-speed" emblem on the left bottom edge of the rear hatch. Originally the 280z had an ammeter that was replaced by a voltmeter and then by the 5-speed manual in 1977. As for the overdrive 5th gearbox, it cost $165. Horsepower was also increased to 175.

     The 280z is rear-wheel drive and weighs 2,875 pounds, but was reduced to 2,639 pounds. The car uses independent Macpherson struts for the front suspension, and independent Chapman struts for the rear suspension. The price of the car was $6,284 back in 1975. The price for a 280z today would be about $10,000 to $20,000 depending on how well the car has been taken care of, and how much the seller wants for one. So if you want a car that is both enviromentally cleaner and more affordable than a Corvette Stingray buy a Nissan/Datsun 280z. That is if you can manage to find one of the estimated 750 to 1,500 of them.