Hello everyone!

I'm looking to buy a Z soon (as soon as I sell my silly PT Cruiser), but I've hit a bit of a dilema. I was hoping maybe you experienced owners out there could offer some advice. I'm having trouble deciding between a pre-smog 240Z, or a 280Z (maybe '82-'83 turbo).

From what I've come to understand, I could do anything I wanted to a 240, but until I can afford to modify or convert the engine, I'm looking at worse gas mileage than the 280, and not nearly as much Go-Go. The 280zx on the other hand, gets better gas mileage, and has more power, but there are a lot more limitations on what I can do to it. I've also been told that the carb engine is easier to work on than the fuel injected. I'm just learning how to work on cars, so less complicated is a plus.

So am I mistaken on anything? Can anyone offer any imput? I would REALLY appreciate your wisdom on the matter.

Thanks!

Alright, I have another question if you would'nt mind. I'm seeing a fair few 240z's with 280 engines in them. I's this getting the best of both worlds? Or is this just asking to be buying someone elses franken-beast? Is it worth taking the chance? Or would it be smarter to do a conversion myself If/when I'm ready, sure and knowledgeable?

I would suggest you stay with an original car so you can start with a clean slate. Then you can decide what you want to change about it ...which might be nothing! Buy the most rust free car you can find/afford and I think you will be happy with your classic car. You will have to perform regular repairs on the car because it is an old car. But, when things are running right, the 240Z will place a permanent grin on your face!

About the fuel cpapcity: My 73 FSM says on page GI-2, Fuel Tank holds 60 liters, 15 7/8 gal. U.S. Measure, or 13 1/4 gal. Imper. Measure.

My take on the discrepency: When I put a new sending unit in the tank I noticed at full empty the float was about an inch off the floor of the tank, I assume the suction tube would be about the same height so not to suck up tank trash. The amount left in the tank, after your pump has sucked it "dry" could be that extra gallon. I think the factory measurements were taken at bone dry. Just a thought.

Bonzi Lon

See now that makes a lot more sence to me. that extra gallon or more can really throw ya off. I've never run the tank completely dry and then filled it up to the top so it makes measuring out of the question.

Thanks,

Dave.

Hah! I just looked up the Yugo. Wow, I couldn't agree more. The SX is definitely a less... sickening comparison.