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Description

The story of the Z-car begins with the landmark Datsun 240Z, a model which redefined the affordable sportscar market at the end of the 1960s. Combining elegant styling, balanced handling and a smooth straight-six engine, it delivered genuine performance with everyday usability, earning a strong global following. By 1975, the concept had evolved into the Datsun 280Z, developed primarily for the US market. With its larger 2.8 litre fuel-injected engine, it offered improved torque and drivability while meeting stricter emissions standards, all while retaining the long-bonnet, short-deck proportions and engaging character that define the Z's enduring appeal.

This 1976 example was sourced from California and imported to the UK in 2019, before undergoing an extensive two-year, ground-up restoration using new parts throughout. Since completion it has covered just 800 miles. The current owner acquired the car earlier this year for use in a professional photoshoot and has since carried out a number of improvements, including rectification of front lighting and wiring issues, replacement of the rear brake light switch and associated wiring, refitting of the rear ducktail spoiler, and renewal of the engine earth wiring. The car also benefits from an MoT test certificate valid until April 2027.

Retaining its original 2.8 litre engine paired with the desirable four-speed manual gearbox, the car has reportedly always been garaged and never driven in the rain. Mechanically, it has been extensively refreshed, with a full gasket set, new timing chain, oil and water pumps, radiator and hoses, alongside renewed ignition components, belts, sensors and filters. A new clutch and slave cylinder have also been fitted, along with a starter motor, refurbished alternator and new engine mounts. It further benefits from a full Z Story exhaust system with JDM rear pipe, while the suspension and subframes have been powder-coated and polybushed with new springs, dampers and associated components.

Finished in striking Mexican Orange and enhanced with ZG arches, a ducktail spoiler, front air dam, fresh glass and seals, Atara Racing alloy wheels and a discreet Honda wiper motor upgrade, this is a highly attractive and well-restored example of an increasingly collectible Japanese classic. Consigned by Fraser Smith

Lot details
Year: 1977
Make: Datsun
Model: 280Z
Registration: TRJ 907R
Chassis No: HLS30-353118
Odometer: 82,450

* Just 800 miles since a two-year restoration

* Tastefully upgraded in period style

* Mexican Orange - an original 240Z colour

Condition & Registration

Registered

Ready to drive: Not provided

Inspection Report

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Technical Details

Vehicle data

Make: Datsun
Model series: Z Series
Model name: 280 Z
Manufacturer code: S30
First registration date: Not provided
Year of manufacture: 1977
Mileage (read): 82,450 mi
Chassis number: Not provided
Engine number: Not provided
Gearbox number: Not provided
Matching numbers: Not provided
Number of owners: Not provided

Technical details

Body style: Coupe
Power (kW/hp): 110/149
Cubic capacity (cm³): 2753
Cylinders: 6
Doors: 2
Steering: Not specified
Gearbox: Manual
Gears: Not provided
Transmission: Rear
Front brakes: Disc
Rear brakes: Disc
Fuel type: Petrol

Individual Configuration

Exterior color: Others
Manufacturer color name: -

Interior color: Others
Interior material: Others

Location

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1977 | Datsun 280 Z