My neighboor is selling a 1982 Datsun 280Zx.... non-turbo... no sunroof....

it had new paintjob, factory color, about 2 years ago.... and the engine has 63,000k. The engine needs a tune-up and its an automatic transmission.

he is asking $5,000 but negionable.... and Kelley's BlueBook says its about $2,800. No rust.. excellent condition....

How much should I pay for it?

Here a few things to consider (and I will follow this exact advice next time myself):

I bought my current '81 280zx N/A 5-speed GL 4 months ago for $500 from a guy at an auction. It had 177K, paint (black) was oxidated, some surface rust, extensive underbody rust (It didn't look so bad at first), the clutch was all but sent to hell, hestiated under throttle, battery was dead the first time, it had been sitting on the lot for 6+ months, and the most foreboding thing was the gallon jug of water sitting impatiently on the pass. side floorboard (which later was used more than a dozen times before I found the cracked water pump.) In short, it was a P.O.S. but happened to be the only pre-84 Z in my town for a decent price (old school Enkei's too!) so I bought it and I'm still fixing her as I go. That's my comparison, so here's what to do:

1) ask as many questions as you can (accident history, RUST, known issues, rebuild?, replacement parts, ask for records, quirks, etc)

2) If the guy isnt too trustworthy, write down the VIN and run a check for poss. secrets. If you are REAL picky check to make sure the motor/tranny numbers match to the car)

3) IMPORTANT! Test drive it. You'll be spending a lot of time (and hopefully not too much money) on your new investment so might as well get the feel and notice its faults right off (hesitation, starting, funny shifts, etc).

4) Super duper inspect it. Engine itself, engine bay itself, under wheel wells, frame rails, rockers, quarter panels, hatch seals, under carpet (esp. in the driver and pass. floor pans), try everything electrical out (lights, brights, hazards, wipers, heater, a/c, etc) Basically run your eyes over every poss. square inch so there are no surprises.

5) If you can bring a much more knowledgable mechanic with you (friend, dad, brother, etc) then let them double-check any mistakes you (the eager buyer) will overlook.

6) If all checks ok to your standards, then I'd go for it. Not many zx's are left in what I'd call 'excellent' condition anymore. My poor baby was neglected til I found her. The only factor after the inspection is your opinion. Should you pay $5k for a 20-yr-old car? I've seen ppl pay more for some, most less or around the same. Haggle a bit and if he's not hangin on for dear life he might go down a few or more hundred. (I talked my guy down from $1200. All I had to do was keep naming stuff that was wrong with it til he leveled with me. I don't advise this too much. Unless it really seems to work the first time.)

In conclusion, if the car is what you want (faults n' all) at a price you can afford, you'll enjoy it. (At least better than your old car. Even I can say that. Old car = '95 Dodge Dakota Sport 2.5L 5-sp.)

Hope my novel helps you out, sorry it's so long, but it reminds you to be thorough. Peace, AD

If the interior is good as well, it might be worth that much. It would need to be in PERFECT shape to go for $5K. I would start with blue book & have the guy explain why you should pay more for his car. An 82ZX with automatic is hardly a collectable Z and would not command a high price just cause it's a "Z". Your buying a 20 year old car, know that it will have problems.

I'm finishing up my 79ZX NA now. The full restoration to NEW condition is costing me $4,000 in parts. That was my limit 'cause I knew the blue book on a ZX was very low. It seemed silly to spend more than could ever be recovered in a sale.

he's the 2nd owner... has ALL records.... about a 1500 dollar paint job...

and I tell ya.... virtually MINT condition inside and out...

and 63k on the engine and car itself....

If she's good as gold then she's good to roll! Snatch that beast...If it's as mint as you say $5k isn't outrageous, but too steep for my poor arse...You might be more affluent...If she's the car you have your heart set on I'd haggle jus a lil' and then probably buy her. ZX's like you are describing don't come around everyday. ALL records, no rust, under 100K miles = dayum lucky. Sounds to me like a virgin showcar but don't let looks fool you either. Be careful and realistic about any big purchase. Know what it is you want and what exactly it is you are getting, coupled by what it's actually worth. If it wasn't for the automatic (I'll never drive slush box til my foot breaks off, but that's jus me) I wouldn't mind taking a gander at the car myself. If you still aren't sure what to do, check her out deeper, details this time, make sure to get a good test drive in, then decide. Let us know what happens, and send pics if you can either way.

Hmmm, over ar zcar.com autos-for-sale there is a nice 80 coupe 5 speed w/ leather with 71K original miles for $2,500...