Hello guys! new member

[Super_Steve]

Hello,

i am a new member looking forward to getting a datsun (either 240z or 280Z, I guess 280z is newer and a little bigger then then 240z, but i guess there is no real difference (is anyone of the two "better" then the other?) between the two)

I've searched alot but couldnt find an answer to my following question.

What should you look for when buying a datsun?

I want something to be daily driven.

I am willing to fix it up, but looking for not as much work to start with...

please post your tips on buying a 240z/280z

thanks!

[1 Bravo 6]

G'Day Steve,

Welcome to the best Z Car site on the web.

The first piece of advice I'd like to pass on is, Complete your personal details in your public profile.

Sooner or later you'll be seeking help, info, advice etc. You just might find one of our members lives close by who can help out.

Now, .... to your question. 240Z or 280Z, that is the question. It all comes down to personal preference mate. My girl is a 260Z Coupe and I wouldn't swap her for a 240Z or a 280Z. Or both for that matter.

While the 240Z and the 280Z are both "Z CARS", they are like chalk and cheese.

This subject has come up a number of times in the past. Try scrolling back through the Open General threads.

Rick.

:devious: :devious:

[Zak's Z]

Welcome,

I was new here about a year ago and I should have asked the questions BEFORE I bought my Z. I wanted a decent condition restore project/already a driver too. I tried to save a few bucks and it cost me more in the long run getting metal work done. My advice is, spend as much as you can (i know its not always realistic at first) on a good condition Z upfront, and it will save you work later.

Look at the frame and rust on the vehicle. Check the engine compartment battery tray (it often gets eaten away by batter acid), check the inner fenders and wheel wells, dog legs, rear deck lid, floors and frame rails, rockers and fender lips. Those are all typical rust spots on a Z. Thats where I made my mistake. Im sure others will agree and also give you other areas to consider (condition of motor, suspension, drivetrain, is it all original?, is it all complete?, condition of interior).

As far as whats the better of the two between a 240 - 280, if you've never had a preference for either of them, get whatever you can find thats in good shape. They all have the same body style but have some mechanical differences. The interiors are different, but its all preference.

After I got my 72' 240z, I took a '76 280z for a drive and I think it rides just a touch better, but I prefer the 240z still.

Use the "SEARCH" and spend some reading up, people have discussed their preference to no end here. Theres lots of good info, and lots of people willing to help out.

Good luck finding a Z,

Zak

[Sailor Bob]

Welcome

I'm a realtive newbee, but I have to say this is the best Z site. Look around here and you'll find most of what you need to know and lots of advise.

Zhome.com has a section on things to watch for when buying a z.

I would tend to look for a solid frame and body with adequate mechanical status. The less you have to repair the better. If you look around there are some great deals out there. I prefered the 240s but I bought a 77 and it's very nice as well.

Go to Ebay, under collector cars, datsun, z series - you'll get an idea of what's around, where it is and what people are paying.

Happy hunting

[Super_Steve]

wow! lots of info!

Thanks for replying,

zhome had great articles, thanks for recommending that site to me...

off to more reading!

there is so much to read!

[Zak's Z]

Hey,

Try the Ontario Z car club: http://www.ontariozcar.com/ , theres a classified section there. Theres lots of resources near Toronto for parts and repairs also. Be careful getting a northern Z, check it thoroughly for rust!

Zak

[BuDavid]

welcome between us in the Z community Steve!

about choosing between 240-280Z I think that the 280 is not much bigger, it has bigger bumpers only as far as I know, since I'm a 280Z owner I I do have a thought about the 240Z as the real classic, I like my car so much, and the performance is good with the FI, but the dual carb. thing is the sexy thing in a Z dont you think so?

anyway, a simple advice for a Z buyer, buy a very clean one from a guy who dont have on his car "FOR SALE";)

u'll pay more but beleave me, u'll pay even more if u buy a "FOR SALE" one;)

best luck..

[beezee]

Hi Steve, found my 74 260 in classifieds at z.car.com The seller was honest with his description,received a lot of pics, a very clean driveable car, made a deal , located a fellow to pick the car in Pittsburgh deliver to my door north of Toronto. Just appraised last weekend $2500 more than my total investment due to the overall condition Search the z sites the right one will come along Good Luck Searching , Rick