I am looking at a freshly repainted 280Z with a very clean interior, new tires, new shocks.

The main issue is that the current motor has 125K miles

How much should I pay for this car - I would rate it VERY good condition.

More details on the car ( trans type, serial #, pictures, etc.) will help determine a value but, most importantly you want to look it over really well to see how much if any damage the rust monster has done, which also may be hidden by the fresh paint. Search the archives on this site regarding rust on these old babies. A little research done now will help avoid big headaches and lots-o-money later. Good luck and keep us posted on your progress.

I'm in a rust free area, so for sake of argument assume it's rust free - also it's a 4spd manual tranny

If you've spent much time at all on this forum you'll know that rust is the number one problem that affects early Z cars. It's hard to say from your brief description how carefully you inspected for rust (under carpet floorpans, frame rails, lower front fenders, beneath battery tray, etc.) but the value of the car will vary greatly depending on the condition of those things.

I wouldn't worry too much about the engine. 125,000 miles is not a lot if it was properly maintained. There are better ways to determine the condition of the engine than looking at mileage alone.

It would be hard for anyone here to give a good estimate of the value without seeing pictures and having more detailed information. There's a wide range of prices on thse cars. For example, nadaguides.com lists a 1978 280Z between $3575 and $8850. Even the low end is a car that's in good condition.

Is there any chance you can post some pictures and provide some more details?

I really just took this car for a very short drive and did not give it the proper once over.

Is there any type of a Z car specific inspection guide? I have liked the cars from afar for a long time, but honestly I have not done a major amount of research on them.

Where are you located? You might be better off getting someone else to do an inspection (as is customary with any used car). Otherwise I'd start looking at all of the old posts on this forum in response to other people asking the same question as you.

Originally posted by MikeW

Where are you located? You might be better off getting someone else to do an inspection (as is customary with any used car). Otherwise I'd start looking at all of the old posts on this forum in response to other people asking the same question as you.

If I decide I really want this car I will have my mechanic inspect it.

The asking price is $4500

Having your mechanic is a good start if he knows Zcars. As was stated the mileage isn't as important as the rust devils. You negelected to post your location in your profile , its there for a reason. The value of these cares varies greatly depending on the location where you live. What is a piece of junk , parts car , in one area is a rebuildable driver in another. There are club members all over the world that are willing to have a look for you . My friend and I have done this for prospective buyers here in Portland in the past. And saved them time and $ on air fair . We dont charge anything , its for the love of the cars. I would think that there are a few of us that live in your area that would be willing to have a look for you. Gary:classic: Just a thought , fresh paint can be a red flag , BIG TIME , look vary closely under the foor mats at the metal of the floor. Check closely under the battery for any sings of rust. Dont be afraid to pock around under the floors with a screw driver for soft spots in the metal that are covered with undercoating. Look at the post here in the arcives.

Hes worried about it having 125k on the odometer, for the straight six thats a walk in the park.

I wont go on to mention what everyone else has already said. Rust is the biggest enemy of the Z. That should be your biggest concern.

4500 for a 280Z is a bit steep in my opinion. If its completely clean and rust free go for it if its the car you want.

My $.02 - I looked for a solid month for a '70-'78 Z before I bought my '75. I paid $3900 for my car, and it was the cheapest I had seen one for the shape it is in. It had 88k original miles, new OEM style carpet, no rust (original owner had it undercoated, and it lived in CA most its life), new (professionally installed) CD player and speakers, working factory A/C, 4-speed manual, new wheels/tires, new floor mats, and everything worked (even the clock). Things it needed/needs - diff mount replaced, and shocks/struts.

From the prices I had seen while searching, I got a damn good deal. However, this was looking in the SE region. It may be different elsewhere. So I would say go for it if everything checks out.