1983 Nissan 280ZX

1983 was the final year of 280ZX production and the last year the Z car had an inline 6-cylinder engine. Production of the (Nissan S130) second generation Z-car sports coupe began in 1978 and was known by many names including the Datsun 280ZX, Nissan Fairlady Z and Nissan Fairlady 280Z (depending on the market). Motor Trend declared it their 'import car of the year' for 1979 and it was the first time the 'by Nissan' subscript was badged alongside the Datsun logo.

Compared to its predecessor, the aerodynamically efficient 280ZX had a drag coefficient reduction from 0.467 to 0.385, and the lift coefficient from 0.41 to 0.14. Its design favored a low center-of-gravity and nearly 50/50 weight weight distribution in both the two-seater and 2+2 body styles. The two-seater had a 91.3-inch wheelbase while the 2+2 was slightly larger at 99.2 inches. The suspension was similar to that of the concurrent Bluebird 910, with semi-trailing arm independent suspension in the rear and MacPherson struts in front. The steering was initially either an unassisted rack-and-pinion or a Datsun 810-derived recirculating-ball with power assistance. The 1981 turbo came with a new power-assisted rack-and-pinion, which became available on the naturally aspirated models the following year.

Engine options for the Japanese market included both 2.0-liter (L20E) and 2.8-liter (L28E) inline-6 cylinder units. The smaller displacement engine was intended to comply with Japanese government dimension regulations; the 2.8-liter unit was intended as the top-level luxury model in Japan. Cars destined for non-Japan markets received the L28-powered engine. The 2.8-liter engine produced approximately 135 (Net) hp, while the turbocharged version delivered approximately 180 (Net) hp.

The 1983 280ZX had an increased tire width and changes to the shock-absorber rates. The turbocharged 280 ZX rode on Potenza 60-series radial tires while the naturally aspirated versions received 70-series Goodyear Eagle GTs. Popular optional equipment included air conditioning ($650), T-bar roof ($800), and leather seats ($500).

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2024