1977 DATSUN 280Z - LHD

This Datsun 280Z is a head-turning classic 1970s Japanese sports coupe, which has been lightly modified, and which is presented in very good order. Under the bonnet is a 2.8-litre L28E straight-six engine, producing around 170bhp in stock form, driving the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. The odometer indicates 56,420 miles from new.

This left-hand-drive car spent most of its life in the US, before being imported to the UK where it was re-registered in September 2018. The seller acquired the car shortly after this, and during his ownership the 280Z has received a significant overhaul and some tasteful upgrades.

Its bodywork presents in good condition, with flush shut lines and tight panel gaps. The body has received a respray in recent years, which has been done to a decent standard. The finish around the rear is not quite as good, as this was painted separately after the main respray, once the old 1980s bumper had been removed. The seller notes a few stone chips in the common areas, around the bonnet and along the sills in particular.

This 280Z has been modified with a deep front air dam, a rear boot lid spoiler, and a 3-2-1 stainless steel race exhaust by Zstory with a JDM ‘shotgun’ back box - and the new exhaust enables the straight-six to really sing. Its headlights have also been upgraded. The car rides on 14-inch wheels wrapped in Kumho tyres, though a complete set of brand-new 15-inch Atara Racing wheels and Nankang tyres is also included in the sale.

In the cabin, the black vinyl door cards appear to be original, while the seats have almost certainly been re-trimmed. The interior is in very smart condition, with only a modest level of wear, and retaining most of its original features. A Retrosound stereo is installed, along with upgraded speakers that are hidden behind the seats. There are no reported electrical faults, and all of the switchgear seems to work as it should.

In late 2019 at 55,694 miles, this 280Z was given an extensive mechanical overhaul at Z-car specialist Fourways Engineering in Kent. Central to this work was a full strip and rebuild of the six-cylinder engine from the block up, with skimmed castings, new con-rod bearings and main bearings, new piston rings, and a new timing chain. Replacement gaskets were fitted throughout, and the valve clearances were checked. The starter motor was renewed, along with a relay for the fuel pump injectors. Fourways Engineering also fitted the Zstory exhaust system, installed a new six-bolt clutch kit, refitted the gearbox, and replaced the battery.

As it is exempt from testing on the basis of age, the car has not been put through an MOT test since arriving in the UK. However, Fourways Engineering did thoroughly inspect the car during its overhaul there. The front brake hose clips need to be replaced, as do the rear brake hose ferrules. The rear indicators should also be changed to orange lenses in due course. Finally, the seller advises that the fuel filter needs changing, and that the suspension would benefit from new shock absorbers - and a fresh set of KYB items are included in the sale.

Accompanying the car is an original tool kit and spare wheel, plus a workshop manual and a few previous receipts from its history. Boxed up and included with the 280Z is a spare polyurethane bushing kit, a spare bulb kit, and the original air-conditioning components, in addition to the wheels and shock absorbers mentioned above. Two ignition keys are also present.

This Datsun 280Z is a handsome 1970s classic that benefits from some discerning upgrades, a more purposeful cosmetic appearance, and a fantastic exhaust note. While it is in very good condition and ready to enjoy on the road as-is, this car could form a great base for further tuning or customisation, adding or refining elements to the next owner’s preferences.

All cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.