I went to the Mecum auctions last August in Monterey, and saw a '78 280 that had just been restored by the original owner. New hardware throughout, rebuilt 2.8l from a ZX, rebuilt tranny (her original 4 speed--no idea why she didn't drop a 5 speed into it), "Mercedes" carpet, she had power steering, mirrors and windows installed, upgraded the stereo system and topped it off with a beautiful new paint job and 16" wheels. She showed me the appraisal paperwork..........$61,000! It went on the block the next day, and bidding actually got up to $40,000, but didn't meet her reserve of $60,000 so she's going to drive it for a year and put it back on the block next August.

Are there any pictures of this car and that insane woman!

Yep--I have the flyer from the auction. I'll scan it and attach it tomorrow.

Better yet, here's a link to the Mecum site for this car: http://www.mecum.com/auctions/lot_detail.cfm?LOT_ID=CA0811-113491

That has to be the best looking blue big bumper Z in captivity ......lots of mula .So it is evident that our cars are collectors items,I try very hard to keep both of my 72 orange DATSUNS in top condition ,to me this hobby is my mental health avenue with vast memories .

Edited January 25, 201213 yr by 72 OJ

I'd push my car to El Paso if someone wanted to give me that much coin for my car even in that kind of shape.

I think the reason she pegged the reserve at $60000 was because that was what she spent on the restoration. It's a beautiful car.....but she should have jumped at the $45000 that the bidding got up to. I can't see her getting anywhere close to what she wants.

But I hope she can for the rest of us....

I am sorry no way in hell that car is worth 45000 dollars. I am actually at a loss as to how would one spend 60000 dollars on one of these cars. I mean I do not blame her for wanting more money, but 45000 dollars for an essentially mildly modded 280Z is just FANTASTIC money. She will never see 60000 dollars in her lifetime.

mental note, sell my Z at MECUM

Nice, I can't wait until each of my Z cars can fetch $60,000. I guess I'll have to wait until next year too.

I'm still unsure of how they did a "frame off" restoration...

You can easily spend $60k on a total restoration, when you have some shop do all the work that is. Labor adds up. Although I completely agree that she should've taken the $45k, she's not going to get the money that she spent back. It's not a 250 GTO.

Edited January 25, 201213 yr by LeonV

I would have jumped all over $45K if I was selling a 78Z. I love Mecum Auctions; I spend my enitre Saturday night watching it. I have been thinking about finishing up my 73 right and selling at Mecum Monterey someday.