280Z 2+2 Status/Potential

[a752adz]

Hello all. I just bought a 75 280z 2+2 for a restore project. This is my first Z and first project. I originally had plans to buy a 240z with the same intent but decided to buy the best available car for the money. The car has been stored and covered for the last 15 years and is all original with only light surface rust on the hood and roof (appears the cover was not taken off to dry after rain). There is no rust on the body panels and the frame rails and floor pans are good. The interior is original and fairly decent with only cracks in dash and minor tears in seat bottoms. This is my question: Is the 2+2 model as popular as the 2 seater? I have not seen as many nicely done. Is it realistic for me to think I will have a potential strong performer with basic engine upgrades (headers, cam, intake kit) since the car is heavier and longer?

[Bambikiller240]

2+2 is not even close to as popular as the 2 seater.

Your 2+2 has the same engine as the 2 seater. You can get the same horsepower out of it. However, the chassis on your 2+2 will ALWAYS weigh more than a 2 seater chassis, thus with comparable mods & driver skill, a 2 seater will ALWAYS wax your 2+2.

Bet that wasn't what you wanted to hear, but it is reality.

[zguitar71]

They are not as popular as the 2 seaters but if you like it then that should not matter. I have a 240z and love it and would not trade it for the world (well mabey an F430) but I have allways wanted a first year 2+2. I think they would be great cars for road trips, fold the seats and have some exta room for lots of stuff or mabey the dog, ect...

They are heavier but if you get the motor to produce 250HP it will still be a fast car.

[First Gen Z]

Do you want to road race? Do you want to drag race? Do you want a nice street machine? Choices, Choices. Most important, do you like the car? Determining what purpose the car will serve is the first decision. Two seaters will be faster if all other factors are equal. But, is speed all that you are looking for? Bottom line; it's your car. Build it to suit your own tastes. After all, it's a Z car and will be a lot of fun.

[rusty260z]

i own a 2+2 as well, thing is for a daily driver, those two back seats came in handy, eg, pick up kid from school and have to drop the friend of as well out of the blue, and other examples, probably only reason nissan made the 2+2.

as for wieght and lenght, on some thread, have read the extra lenght makes it more balanced, if i read it right that is, and the weight really, wont matter that much on the road, slightly slower than another 2 seater z, but it is not going to happen often that you will be racing another z on the road anyways, mostly a much faster newer car will be always be faster aganist a slightly modified zed.

aboves for road only, tracks another thing altogether

[a752adz]

Thanks for the replies. I am excited about the project and this forum. Don't get me wrong, I like the car no doubt but after reading earlier threads on Z car rustout and metal repair, I had to pass on several 240s and decided the 2+2 would be the best bet for only a grand out of pocket with no major rust out. I will share pics of the before and after as time permits. The goal is a sweet weekend driver with some tasteful personal mods (front air dam, Panasports, stereo).

[Victor Laury]

I've seen some beauties, restored 2+2's at the MSA show. Alone, they look great, next to 240's, they look like station wagons

[beandip]

I agree with First Gen Z in that you have a vary fine car . Yes it is heavier but it will ride smoother , longer wheel base. For one thing all the Zs after the 240 are heavier as well , and you don't hear complaints from the other 280 drivers . Sounds like you may have found a good car to work with . Rust free , or almost so , is a vary big factor . You will be money ahead big time. I own a 240 and I do prefer them to a ''duce'' . I came vary close to buying a '75 2+2 from Mike G ,the bone cracker , vary close . The only reason I dident was I had started on my 240 and couldent take on another project. Welcome to the club . I hope you realise that you are now infected with the Z virus and there is no cure . Gary