1983 Datsun 280ZX CoupeFor consignment, a 1983 Datsun 280ZX couple with a title verified 78,796 actual miles. The ZX's retained the reliable and capable L28 inline 6 cylinder...
1983 Datsun 280ZX Coupe
For consignment, a 1983 Datsun 280ZX couple with a title verified 78,796 actual miles. The ZX's retained the reliable and capable L28 inline 6 cylinder engines of the 280Z's and even in normally aspirated form, as our car is, they can provide a spirited ride in a wonderful long nosed, rear wheel drive configuration.
Exterior
Cadet Blue over Silver was one of the two tone colorations available in 1983 and proved to be popular. The blue sandwiches the silver which dominates the side panels and rear of the car. The silver headlight coves are obscured by tinted light covers which provide a more streamlined nose. T-tops are the roof of the car after which it slopes downward meeting a large rear window on a hatch that terminates abruptly on the vertical flat tail. The taillights are unmistakable on the Z and twin tips exit on the left side. 14-inch six spoke wheels were standard and have the iconic Z logo on the center cap. The hood has an asymmetrical intake scoop and louvered vents on both sides. Overall, the paint is good condition with imperfections mostly saved for the lower edges in the form of some bubbling in the chip guard along with scratches and scuffs and one ding in the silver.
Interior
Smooth silver door panels are met with a blue carpeted base and is in keeping with the two tone theme of the car. The silver leather seats are wide and flat, more relaxing than racing, and are in very good condition. The steering wheel and its angular spokes speak to the times and this is magnified by the leaning boxes that make up the gauge cluster. Digital readouts replace analog dials and are reminiscent of arcade games of the day. Three round gauges in the center dash are canted sharply to the driver and indicate oil pressure, volts, and clock via digital numbers. A more modern AM/FM/CD player is found in the center stack surrounded by a filler panel. This is where we find the stick shifter in a plastic base and rubberized accordion style boot. Low pile plush blue carpet covers the floor and ZX carpeted mats cover that. In the rear hatch, blue carpet makes another appearance in a space that has a lot of room. We note the inner and back walls of the hatch will need restoration.
Drivetrain
Datsun's 2.8 liter SOHC inline 6 cylinder engine is under the long hood and is rated at 145 horsepower. It's fuel injected and put into motion via a 5-speed manual transmission which sends rotations back to the rear axle and 3.90 gears. Power disc brakes are front and rear. We would classify the engine bay as driver quality but generally clean.
Undercarriage
Driver quality underneath as well with surface rust in the usual places along with a few areas of invasive rust in the flooring, rockers and pinch welds. The single exhaust makes its way from the engine, down the length of the car, and into a stock style muffler before exiting under the bumper. Independent suspension is found front and rear. We note some residual oil on the oil pan, but otherwise, nothing of concern underneath.
Drive-Ability
A comfortable seat and sitting position greet you as we turn the key and set the six pistons moving. The car is quiet, somewhat quick, and as intended provides a smooth ride without the harshness of sport suspension. Adequate power here, good braking, and excellent handling make this a not so sporty sports car we can live with! We would however fix the A/C and heater blower that we find inoperable.
When I was in high school, (class of '83!), my friend's parents had this exact car. They were the cool parents, bar none. Because this car was cool then and it's cool now. Gauges pointing to the driver? Boss! The Z profile is iconic and now somewhat rare, thus, desirable. Get back to the digital age and get a closer look at this '80's car for the cool kids.
JN1HZ04S0DX556491
J-Japan
N-Nissan
1-Passenger Car
H-L28E Non Turbo
Z0-S130
4-280Z Coupe
S-2 Seater
0-Check Digit
D-1983
X-Nissha Plant
556491-Sequential Unit Number
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