1979 Datsun 280 ZX Sportscar Blue RWD Manual 2+2 GT

In 1979, Datsun released the 280ZX, the company's response to Disco, Mullets, and Big Hair. It was a luxurious evolution of the Z line that retained its fun while improving on driveability and comfort. But it didn’t give up its performance… Paul Newman drove a Datsun 280ZX during the 1979 racing season. In it, he won races at Summit Point, Watkins Glen, Brainerd (Minn.), Lime Rock, and Road Atlanta, culminating in an SCCA National C-Production Championship.

Vehicle Details

This 280ZX presents a cornucopia of possibilities. Choose your own colors and finishes, make it just the way you want. Prefer leather to the original cloth - go for it!

I bought this Fairlandy Z from a Navajo gentleman who used it to commute to Albuquerque. It has a definite Rez Rocket flair, complete with the besoke alligator paint texture curated by the New Mexico sun. He kept the body straight, despite the dirt roads of Dine.

But, familiar story, we had a kid and now I’ve got no time to get her done.

This will be a great restoration project. I did get the car running briefly last year, briefly because it quickly alerted me of the need to replace all the old rubber gas lines (it was beautiful, like the the fountains of Versailles spewing with gasoline). A few good lengths of new gas line will be thrown in to get you started on avoiding a rolling conflagration. Heads-up, a fresh set of fuel relays (the ones behind the glove box that has conveniently already been removed for you) and a new fuel pump are definitely in order too. You’ll see in the photos a rear taillight and a hood cowl need replacing. The electric windows still work, albeit somewhat slowly.

But you and I both know that’ll just be the beginning of your wonderful adventure with this beautiful and highly desireable car. We both also know how nowadays a well restored 280ZX GT 2+2 can demand remarkably high value.

Please don’t ask, the truck is not for sale.