Datsun 280ZX Turbo
The Datsun 280ZX, designated S130, represented a significant philosophical shift for the Z-car when it debuted in 1979. Where the original 240Z was a raw, lightweight sports car, the 280ZX was a more refined grand tourer with improved ride quality, better interior appointments, and a focus on comfort alongside performance. The Turbo model, introduced for 1981, addressed the performance gap left by emissions-strangled naturally aspirated engines and reestablished the Z as a genuinely fast car.
The heart of the 280ZX Turbo was the L28ET engine, a turbocharged version of the proven 2.8-liter inline-six that had powered the 280Z. A Garrett T3 turbocharger force-fed the engine at a conservative 6.8 psi of boost, producing 180 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque. This was a significant improvement over the 135-145 hp naturally aspirated version and gave the 280ZX performance that rivaled European sports cars costing considerably more. The engine was matched to a close-ratio 5-speed manual gearbox, though a 3-speed automatic was also available.
The S130 chassis was substantially redesigned from the S30. The wheelbase was slightly shorter, but the car was wider and featured a completely new independent rear suspension using semi-trailing arms instead of the previous Chapman strut arrangement. This improved ride quality and reduced the tendency toward snap oversteer that characterized the earlier Z-cars under aggressive driving. The Turbo model received upgraded suspension bushings and slightly stiffer spring rates to cope with the additional power.
Styling was distinctly late-1970s, with T-top roof panels available as a popular option. The interior featured a comprehensive instrument cluster, power windows, and an available Bose stereo system - a far cry from the spartan 240Z cockpit. The Turbo model added its own visual touches including a discreet hood bulge, unique badging, and gold-accented wheels.
The 280ZX was a commercial triumph, outselling all previous Z-cars and winning Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1979. The Turbo variant was the performance flagship of the lineup and proved popular both on the street and in IMSA racing, where Bob Sharp Racing and others competed successfully with turbocharged Z-cars. The 280ZX Turbo laid the groundwork for the twin-turbocharged 300ZX that would follow, establishing forced induction as a Z-car tradition.
In today's collector market, the 280ZX Turbo is one of the more affordable entry points into classic Z-car ownership. Clean, unmodified examples are becoming scarce as many were modified, neglected, or succumbed to rust. The T-top cars, while more common, can suffer from water leaks and body flex. Naturally aspirated cars are abundant, making turbo models the more desirable specification for collectors.
Focus on rust inspection first - check the frame rails, rocker panels, rear quarters, and around the T-top seal areas if equipped. The L28ET turbo engine is robust but check for boost leaks, turbo shaft play, and oil consumption. The ECCS fuel injection system is generally reliable but the AFM can fail. The T-top models are prone to water leaks that cause interior damage and rust. Verify the turbo timer and boost gauge function if present. Check rear trailing arm bushings for wear. The 5-speed manual is preferred by enthusiasts. Original paint and interior condition significantly affect value.
The 280ZX was produced from 1979 to 1983, with the Turbo variant available from 1981. Total production across all variants exceeded 446,000 units. The car was sold as the Datsun 280ZX in most markets, transitioning to the Nissan badge in 1983. In Japan, it was marketed as the Fairlady Z.