280Z, the right car for me?

[KDMatt]

Thanks again guys, it's really encouraging to hear from people who have a lot of experience.

I like the idea of working on a car myself, and remembering that the Z's design is simple and prospectively amateur mechanic friendly is something that, quite frankly, gets me excited.

I'll have to remind my dad of that too; I could never work on a newer car with that much ease. I'm getting him to soften up actually. He admitted, "Yeah, I mean, that would be pretty cool, but... still..." It's not like that really matters a whole lot though, I value his opinion, but I'm 18 and I can readily make my own decisions.

My gut is telling me to keep looking into Z's, so that's the direction I'm headed. I've always known I wanted a car that's a little, shall we say, unorthodox? but in a cool and stylish way!

I've got my eye on one right now that I think I might call on. For those of you who couldn't access the link I posted last time: '76 280Z, 83k miles, silver (like SilverStreak! score!), owner claims there are spots on the body that "need some attention," what that entails, I shall have to see.

[chickenwafer]

Needing attension probably means rust, more than likely

[KDMatt]

Needing attension probably means rust, more than likely

Yeah, that's what I'm thinkin' too. I'll have to see this car in person though and see if it's bad or reasonbly/driveably rusty. As I keep saying, I'm not looking for a cosmetically perfect Z, some little dingers and some small rust spots won't bother me too much so long as it runs smoothly and isn't suspect to be a headache.

Unlike the other one too, this one has maintenance records, and has been owned by the same person for the last 12 years.

[dogma420]

The problem is KDMatt, that they rig when you go to buy it isn't going to 'run smoothly' and that's something you have to learn how to make it do on your own; most of the ones with 'door dings/small rust' aren't going to run too well when you go try them out....you have to make them run well.

I guess this is easier, if you are looking at a fuel injected zed, it will either run better or not (i'd take it through any emission testing before buying)....the SU carb setup can take a little work to get down (as far as synching is concerned) but one you get it, they are real easy to synch.

Good luck!

[Marty Rogan]

These guys have given some excellent, sound advice. The only thing I could add is, take your time and be picky. It is well worth the extra time to get a good one. Also, save up your money and buy the very best example you can find, even if you have to buy a plane ticket there and drive it home. I did that on my last 2 and it was a blast. Buying one that has been kept up or partially restored will save you a lot of money in the long run.

Check out the Z websites and here: http://www.collectorcartraderonline.com/

There are about 100-200 Z's for sale most of the time. It just takes work and patience to find the right one. Hey, the hunt is part of the fun!

Good luck on your search.

Marty