Description
Datsun 280Z | 1977
Highlights:
- Rebuilt 2.8L engine approximately 10 years ago
- Manual transmission with smooth shifting
- New rims, tyres, steering wheel and interior mats
- Dutch registration and valid inspection
The seller offers for sale a 1977 Datsun 280Z, a petrol-powered classic with a 2800cc inline-four engine and manual transmission. This example is fitted with new bumpers and features recent cosmetic and mechanical attention, including a engine rebuild approximately a decade ago. Enhancements include renewed interior mats, a new steering wheel, and a set of new rims and tyres, helping maintain its roadworthy status.
The car’s exterior presents as generally good, with some cosmetic imperfections. The hood has light chipping around the inlet vents. A small imperfection is noted on the lower corner of the right door, which also does not close perfectly and requires hinge adjustment. The vehicle was repainted about ten years ago, and evidence of the old bumper mounts remains visible. According to the seller, the bodywork could benefit from standard repairs but currently shows no rust or signs of structural damage.
Inside, the car displays typical wear expected for its age. The dashboard and transmission tunnel are both cracked. However, the seats are intact without tears, and the flooring mats are new. The door cards are original, although one has a small missing piece at the handle.
The Datsun 280Z belongs to the first generation of the Z-car series introduced by Nissan under the Datsun nameplate, primarily for the North American market. Produced from 1975 to 1978, the 280Z was the successor to the 260Z and part of a lineage that helped establish Japanese sports cars as serious competitors to their European and American counterparts. It was equipped with a 2.8L L-series inline-six engine (despite the seller stating four cylinders, the 280Z originally housed six) and electronic fuel injection—an innovation for the time—improving both drivability and emissions compliance.
The Z series stood out for combining sporty performance with everyday usability at an affordable price. The 280Z retained the long-hood/short-deck styling that became a trademark of the Z-cars, while updates over its predecessors included revised bumpers to meet U.S. safety standards and various interior refinements. These cars quickly gained popularity with driving enthusiasts for their balanced handling, reliability, and striking design.
With the resurgence in appreciation for vintage Japanese sports cars, the 280Z has found its place among collectors and tuners alike. Period-correct examples such as this, which has been kept in operational roadworthy condition, are increasingly difficult to find. While some cosmetic work is needed to restore this 280Z to a higher standard, its mechanical soundness and originality offer a solid foundation for enjoyment or future restoration.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
3. Good: Repairs to the bodywork and paint may be needed, possibly requiring part replacements.
Condition of the Interior
3. Good: Shows typical wear; may require some repairs or part replacements.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
3. Good Condition: May need some mechanical and cosmetic repairs, but can drive.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in North Brabant province, the Netherlands.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Dutch registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
