Finally

[280z1975]

Here's my advice, feel free to ignore it. I'd say that you would be better off buying a decent runner that needs some ongoing maintenance/going over than buying a full-on project car.

Why? A runner is going to be more rewarding because you will get to enjoy it on the road as well as enjoy any fixes/upgrades as you go along. You will learn a lot going over the car and fixing what needs to be tweaked versus being totally overwhelmed by something that is really far from getting back on the road. Actually if you could find something that "ran when parked a couple of years ago" that may be perfect. Then you would need to check out the fuel system, brakes, battery, etc., but could probably get the car running in a matter of weeks.

This kind of car will also be priced at the biggest discount to its actual value when running because most people will not even consider buying a car that isn't currently running, so there is low demand.

Also, it will probably be easier to find a good example of the kind of car described above in a 260 or 280z. Like you I think the 240s are cooler, but 260s are pretty cool and there is nothing wrong with a 280 either. At your age a nicer 260 may be preferable to a beater rust-bucket 240. Then someday you can save up for that full-on 240 restoration project, when you have more time and a place of your own.

AMC has some good advice. I have a 75' 280z and don't feel that it is any less cool than a 240 (well untill I put on those stupid 5mph federal safety bumpers ). I got my Z for free and to date have spent just under 3,000 on the car. Mine had almost NO rust. Only a rusty frame rail and some light floor pan rust. I didn't go crazy with the car, but did do things right. Also all the work was done myself less the new clutch and fuel injectors.

Have you considered a 280z, they are easier to maintain, much more available, better daily drivers for the most part, and the best part for someone like yourself, much less $$$.

I would get a 280z that is in better shape and then have it road worthy and enjoy it, spend the next couple of years learning about Z cars and when you are more settled and can take on a full restoration go out and find a nice California or Arizona (or even Texas) Z car and go to town on it restoration wise. It will seem a WHOLE lot less of a daunting task after owning the other Z car.

I hope all this advice helps.

[KenshinX]

Yep i consider any Z car(besides the 80s no offense) but its just that if a good 240z comes along imma snatch it, unfourtunetly this aint it. Im looking at a couple 280z and yes i have gotten more results from looking for a 280z but must are way over price like $6,500 $5,000 or $7000 or has already been customize and i want the feeling of doing some work im a hands on kinda person i like fixing things.

My step dads akido instructor had a white 280z I believe(could've been a 240 it had the vented black thing on the hatch door). I was 13 then so dont remember exactly and thats when I fell in love with the car. It wasnt in the greatest condition, but it had the headlight covers and was white ever since then I had to have one. To bad he sold It, it was a Automatic, but I wouldve purchased it from him. Later on my step dad Informed me that he got it from an auction

[KDMatt]

I really want a 240z because of the rarity and the fact it started it all, plus its slightly smaller...

Smaller?

All of the first-generation (70-78) Z-cars are the same size. In fact, you'll find that a lot of parts between years and displacement incarnations are interchangeable.

Good luck in your search for a Z! Be prepared for that ultimate euphoria my friend. Once you find your Z you won't stop thinking about it until you bring it home... Well actually... that's a lie... You won't stop thinking about it, period.

If I may get a slightly biased word in here, I would do as I see a few others have mentioned, and that is to say you should reconsider a 280. I know you've got your heart set on a 240, but don't discount a 280 because it's got fuel-injection or bigger bumpers. They're jstill a blast to drive and get just as many looks from total strangers. Plus, it takes away the potential hassle of tuning carbuerators.

Good luck on the search, from one teenaged Z-er to another.

[280z1975]

snip .... but don't discount a 280 because it's got fuel-injection or bigger bumpers. ... snip

Or you can do what I am doing, moding on 240 or early 260 style bumpers onto my 280z. I may only go with the front one as I don't think the rear bumper looks that our of place on the rear, but the front one really doesn't look right IMHO.

Still, good luck with the search.

[moonpup]

Originally Posted by KDMatt

Plus, it takes away the potential hassle of tuning carbuerators.

Sorry, gotta disagree with you here. SU's are some of the easiest carbs to play with.

Not sure if they're tuned right? Just check the plugs. Carboned up and reeking of gas...too rich, light grey to white...too lean.

Front carb...plugs 1,2,3 Back carb...plugs 4,5,6. Can't get much easier.

Had a 280Zx and with all the electronic sensors, brain and other cr*p, it was a nightmare sometimes to figure out what was making the car run like sh*t.

Give me mechanical stuff any day.

[KenshinX]

All of the first-generation (70-78) Z-cars are the same size

I believe as posted in a previous thread that the 240s are approx. 6 inch smaller as far as length correct me if im wrong and the 280 z 2+2 is 9 inch longer.

As far as the fuel injection I have no problem with the 280z in that factor. It really is not a big deal whats a big deal to me is the fact that I cannot place a BRE spook on a 280 because of the lower hanging valance, but hopefully ill find another spoiler to my liking. If i find a 280 at the right price i will buy it no argument i was just saying that i would prefer a 240 thats not my only choice though anthing, but a ZX is fine with me.

[zpizzaman20]

I suggest you talk to Todd, the owner of Tidewater Z up in Hampton. He usually knows what is for sale in the area and he is one of the best mechanics around. I drive 2.5 hours to have him do what I can't.

757-868-6753.

Fred

Fairfax, VA

2 280's

3 240's

[KDMatt]

All of the first-generation (70-78) Z-cars are the same size

I believe as posted in a previous thread that the 240s are approx. 6 inch smaller as far as length correct me if im wrong and the 280 z 2+2 is 9 inch longer.

You are correct, the 2+2 (4-seater) versions are longer.

However, body parts for the 2-seaters are universal from 70-78, with the exception of badging and bumpers. The only reason, to my knowledge, that the 240's might be "shorter" is because they had slimmer bumpers than 280's and later 260's. Other than that, the body is pretty much the same.

SU's are some of the easiest carbs to play with.

Okay, 'didn't know that. My idea was simply that injectors are more maintenance-free than carbs which might make them more ideal for a younger, less experienced car-buff.

Anyhoo, good luck KenshinX. Keep us abreast of the situation.

[KenshinX]

Thanks Zpizzaman will do need all the help i can get and thanks KD matt for the adive and everyone else for the support

[daveinc]

Hey Caleb,

I just bought the other car I was telling you about and am going to sell the 280Z. Wanted to give you first rights before I put it out there at a higher price. I told you I would sell it for 1500. Offer still stands. As I mentioned before, this is a daily driver that you can enjoy while you improve it.

Exterior, finished all the metal work, (no bondo). You would need to sand, do some bodywork and paint to finish outside. I was going to put on the MSA body kit which replaces the bumpers, but you can choose whatever you want at this point.

Interior will need to be redone but is comfortable till you do. All gauges work, even the clock keeps good time.

Mechanically, runs great, 5 speed makes it a great highway car, shifts wonderful, new brake pads, calipers, hoses and master cylinder. Lots of normal stuff done too, new plugs, wires, distributor, hoses, filters, belts, etc. Drive it anywhere.

You are getting lots of good advice and help on this forum and I would encourage you to also join the local "Tidewater Z Club". We are only 2 hours apart, so I'm sure that someone in the club would be happy to take a look at my car with you.

Let me know what you are thinking,

I'm thinking. I wish I was 16 again!

Later, David

[KenshinX]

Thats good to hear that you found a car what kind of car did you get, sure i would be interested if the car isnt sold with in 2 months. Inform if the Z is sold so ill know If not ill by her.

[daveinc]

Caleb,

You should check out the Tidewater Z Car Club Show. I believe it will be in two weeks on May 14th. Pomono Nissan on Victory Blvd, Hampton, VA. That would be a great time to see lots of Zs from our area, usually some are for sale too. If my work schedule allows, I plan to drive down. Hope to see you there, look for a white 280Z.

Best, David