1981 Datsun 280ZX

The Datsun 280Z was offered to the North American market from 1975 through 1978, followed by the 280ZX from 1978 to 1983. The 280Z rested on a 90.7-inch wheelbase (the 2+2 body style had a 102.6-inch wheelbase), a length of 173.2-inches, and a width of 6.42-inches. The 2.8-liter L28 (a bored-out version of the L26) engine received Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection and delivered 170 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. It was backed by a four-speed manual transmission or optional three-speed automatic or five-speed manual. The 'Zap' special edition model was offered in 1977 and was finished in 'sunshine yellow' paint, and wore black stripes down the center and sides, with red, yellow, and orange chevrons at the front ends of the stripes. The 'Black Pearl' edition was offered in 1978 and came with black pearlescent paint and a 'special appearance package' (SAP), with rear window louvers, unique red and silver striping, and dual racing mirrors.

The 280ZX retained the L28 inline-six engine of its predecessor, along with other driveline components, but with all-new, less rounded styling with better-integrated safety bumpers. While the 280Z focused on performance, the 280ZX was more centered on luxury, refinement, and comfort. Due to the better sound insulation, more comfortable seats, and softer suspension, the 280ZX was heavier than the outgoing 280Z.

For 1981, the Datsun 280ZX received a compression ratio change resulting in a boost of horsepower to 145 BHP. The car came in both two-seater and 2+2 trim. Standard equipment and options remained unchanged, including the T-top.

The base engine in the 280ZX was a six-cylinder 168 cubic-inch unit that produced 145 horsepower. With the addition of the AiResearch turbocharger, horsepower rose to 180. Both had a five-speed manual gearbox and four-wheel disc brakes. The turbo could race from zero-to-sixty in just 7.1 seconds with a top speed of just under 90 mph.

Datsun produced 1,864,251 vehicles for 1981 with 464,806 being sent to the United States.


By Daniel Vaughan | Jul 2011

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Recent Vehicle Additions

Performance and Specification Comparison

Price Comparison

1981 280ZX
$17,000-$162,550
1981 Datsun 280ZX Price Range: $11,300 - $17,000

Compare: Lower | Higher | Similar

280Z

Specification Comparison by Year

Year
Production
Wheelbase
Engine
Prices
90.70 in., 102.60 in.
6 cyl., 168.00 CID., 149.00hp
$6,280 - $7,085
90.70 in.
6 cyl., 168.00 CID., 149.00hp
$6,600 - $7,400
90.70 in.
6 cyl., 168.00 CID., 149.00hp
$7,000 - $8,315
91.30 in.
6 cyl., 168.00 CID., 135.00hp
$7,970 - $9,300
71,893
91.30 in.
6 cyl., 168.00 CID., 135.00hp
$9,895 - $11,595
91.30 in.
6 cyl., 168.00 CID., 132.00hp
$9,895 - $9,895
63,791
91.30 in.
6 cyl., 168.00 CID., 145.00hp
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
$14,500 - $15,500
91.30 in.
6 cyl., 168.00 CID., 180.00hp
$14,800 - $18,600

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Vehicle information, history, and specifications from concept to production.