The Datsun/Nissan 280ZX, the third generation of Z-car, was introduced in 1978. It was a clean-sheet redesign with the only items left unchanged from the previous 280Z was the 5-speed manual transmission and 2.8-liter L28 inline-6 engine. In response to consumer demands, the 280ZX was made more luxurious and given more performance. They were given t-tops, a turbocharged model, a 2-seater, and a 2+2 body style. Transmission choices included a 3-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual. With the help of a turbocharger, horsepower rose to 180 bhp and torque was rated at 203 lb-ft. The normally aspirated version produced 135 horsepower and 144 lb-ft of torque. 
Hatchback CoupeDuring its first year of production, the 280ZX set a Z-car sales record of 86,007 units.
by Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2019
Hatchback Coupe
by Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2019
Related Reading : Datsun 280Z History
Introduced in 1975 as the successor of the 260Z, the Datsun 280Z was the final version of the 1st generation Z sports car. At the end of the 1978 model year, the 1st generation Z was discontinued and replaced by the 1979 280ZX. Unique to North America, the 280Z nameplate was sold as the Fairlady Z in Japan. Powered by the 170 HP OHC Inline 6 L28 engine, the L28 was an electronically fuel....
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Related Reading : Datsun Z-Car History
The 240Z was not a new idea. Sturdy engineering, excellent performance, low price, attractive styling, and average interior had been achieved by many manufacturers prior to the Z-car. The reason the 240Z car was so great was that it capitalized on all these criteria and perfected the concept of a low-cost, reliable, sports car. Mr. Yutaka Katayama is considered the Father of the Z Car and is responsible....
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Z SPECIAL EDITION ANNIVERSARY MODELS: A LOOK BACK
When the original Datsun Z debuted in 1969, it was a revelation for the automotive world. An affordable, reliable sports car with style and comfort that could be used for daily driving was unheard of at the time. With a base price of %243,626 U.S., the Z – known as the Datsun 240Z in North America – was a sports car that was accessible to anyone. In short time, customers around the world were....
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1980 Datsun 280ZX Vehicle Profiles
Recent Vehicle Additions
Performance and Specification Comparison
Price Comparison
280Z Specification Comparison by Year
Year
Production
Wheelbase
Engine
Prices
63,791
91.30 in.
6 cyl., 168.00 CID., 145.00hp
6 cyl., 168.00 CID., 180.00hp
6 cyl., 168.00 CID., 180.00hp
$11,300 - $17,000
57,260
91.30 in., 99.50 in.
6 cyl., 168.00 CID., 145.00hp
6 cyl., 168.00 CID., 180.00hp
6 cyl., 168.00 CID., 180.00hp
$14,500 - $15,500
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