1977 Datsun 280Z

Gateway Classic Cars of Charlotte is proud to digitally present this 1977 Datsun 280Z.

The 280Z was the second update of the original 240Z. The most notable changes included a 2.8-liter electronic fuel-injection engine, an updated interior, a bigger gas tank, and different taillights. The updated interior 280Z is a very nice upgrade over the 240Z, along with the L28 motor. The fuel-injection system is a Bosch L-Jetronic system seen on Alfa Romeos, BMWs, Fiats, and Lancias.

The real solution to emission laws came with the introduction of the fuel-injected 280Z in 1975. The addition of a license-built Bosch L-Jetronic injection to the inline six-cylinder engine, plus a displacement increase of 200 ccs, returned the Z car to roughly 1970 levels of performance.

However, the 280Z is much closer to the original 240 than most people realize, and it's undoubtedly a more sporting car than the 280ZX of 1979, with which it often needs clarification. Aside from the big bumpers, the coupe is a direct descendant of the 240Z, with little change in the interior except for a fully integrated and effective air conditioner which replaced the original Z's dealer-installed piece. The electronic fuel injection makes cold starts a snap and offers enjoyable drivability.

Any Z is a mechanically simple and robust car with good parts availability and a lot of fun to drive. Of the 420,000 Z cars imported to the United States, 203,275 were 280Z cars - not counting the 2+2 version.