Help In Buying First Z Car

[Shadow591]

I have the opportunity to buy a 1982 ZX 2+2. I was wondering anything I should ask the seller such as common rust spots, common problems, Or anything that should be asked or verified with the seller. Thanks in advanced. Also Help in negotiation price.

"1982 Datsun 280ZX 2+2 Fuel Injected 6 cyl. Auto Trans. Nice tan leather & suede inter. T Tops w factory sun shades and case. Dr Brown & Bronze Paint Color, Body & Paint good except for pass. door & behind rear tires. Engine overhauled by Hurst Imports 1-09. All repair invoices available. 188K miles. FM CD AUX Remote Radio. Nice daily driver that is fun to drive. Call xxx-xxx-xxxx for more info. and test drive."

There are 3 other photos in the attachment.

[zbane]

Congratulations on possibly getting into your first Z car, for joining this site, and for posting photos in your first post!

Rust areas... FRAME RAILS. In my opinion, that is the first place to look, and possibly your best negotiation point.

Battery tray: Don't just look at it, take the battery out and get a good look in there. The way the tray is designed, all sorts of crud can get in there, but has no real place to go. Dirt, water, grime, battery acid, + time, you get the idea.

Wheelwells, especially the rear ones, tend to collect water as well and rust out from the inside.

Bottom edge of the doors-the rubber weatherstrip by the glass gets loose adn allows water down there, where it can collect. Not usually a serious matter, but worth looking.

Floorpans-interior: If possible, lift the carpet and look underneath. Not the easiest thing to do in a ZX, but worth it.

Spare tire area: For whatever reason, the wheelwell that holds the spare is a magnet for rust.

That's all I can think of off the top of my head, I expect others will chime in.

Good luck, and do post more photos of the car if you go look at it and have questions. There's nothing wrong with taking a day to really think about getting the car, so give yourself that time.

If the seller pressures you to decide right now, you might just want to walk away.

[Shadow591]

My dad also wants the car to be safe. Is there anything any where that will show safety features or crash test rating.

[bigoak]

Safety is a relative thing...

They don't have airbags or abs, so if that is the definition, your are SOL...

As for safety relative to the vehicles of the day, they're probably ok. As stated above, have the frame rails checked out as it could be very scary if they let go. Also check the brake system and look to renew/update to ensure safety.

Good luck.