280 Z 2+2 versus 280ZX

[Carioca]

Can someone explain to me what are the differences between these two Datsuns, if any? Thanks

[7tooZ]

Not sure what question really is, but al 2+2s have a rear seats. Of course that changes numerous other parts. All other only have front seats.


Sent from my iPhone using Classic Zcar Club mobile

[Carioca]

I (wrongly) assumed ZX meant a 2+2, thus my confusion. So whats the diff between a 280Z and a 280 ZX?...that's prob what I would like to know. thanks.

[siteunseen]

31 minutes ago, Carioca said:

I (wrongly) assumed ZX meant a 2+2, thus my confusion. So whats the diff between a 280Z and a 280 ZX?...that's prob what I would like to know. thanks.

From wikipedia,

First generation: Nissan 240Z (S30)[edit]

Main article: Nissan S30

 

Datsun 240Z (S30)

Sales of the Nissan Z Car started in October 1969 (for the 1970 model year), with separate versions for the Japanese and US markets. The Japanese Fairlady Z featured a 2.0L SOHC L20A inline-6 producing 130 hp (97 kW), while the US 240Z featured a 2.4L L24 inline-6 with twin Hitachi SU-type carburetors that produced 151 hp (113 kW) (SAE gross horsepower). A third Z, the Z432 (PS30) shared a performance version of the DOHC 2.0 L S20 engine with the Nissan Skyline 2000 GT-R.

In Japan, the Z was still known as the Fairlady to keep the car in line with the previous generation Datsun Sports roadster. JDM versions had the Fairlady Z badge on the lower fenders with the 432 badge above (the 432 designation was 4 valves, 3 carburetors, and 2 camshafts). However, Yutaka Katayama ensured the American version had all Nissan, Fairlady Z, and 432 badging replaced with "Datsun" and prevented all dealer shipments until they were replaced.^{[citation needed]}

The 240Z was released in America on October 22, 1969. Combining good looks, and powerful performance, it sold over 45,000 units through the '71 model year and over 50,000 and 40,000 in 1972 and 1973, respectively.

The 260Z was released in 1974; it featured an increased engine displacement of 2.6 L and an available 2+2 model with a slightly longer wheelbase. Despite the engine size increase, power decreased to 139 hp (104 kW) (SAE net horsepower) in most areas of the US due to new camshafts, carburetors, and lower compression that were introduced to comply with new emissions regulations. In other export regions the power was increased to 154 hp (115 kW).

The 280Z was released in 1975 in North America (not to be confused with the 280ZX, which is a second-generation Z-car) and featured another engine displacement enlargement to 2.8 L. A major change was the introduction of Bosch fuel injection, replacing the previous SU carburetors. This resulted in a power increase to 170 hp (127 kW) (SAE gross horsepower), offsetting increased weight from added luxury features and an enlarged bumper that met US Federal regulations. Export markets outside North America continued to receive the Datsun 260Z until the introduction of the Datsun 280ZX at the end of 1978.

Second generation: Nissan 280ZX (S130)[edit]

Main article: Nissan S130

 

Nissan/Datsun 280ZX (S130)

Known as the Datsun/Nissan 280ZX in export markets, the car continued to use the "Fairlady" moniker in the Japanese domestic market where 2-litre inline-six engines were also available and was first introduced in 1978.

The only thing left unchanged from the previous 280Z was the 5-speed manual transmission and 2.8-liter L28 inline-6 engine, while the entire car overall was made more luxurious to meet growing consumer demands. Major changes for this new generation of Z-cars include t-tops, introduced in 1980, and a turbocharged model introduced in 1981, complementing the naturally aspirated (NA) 2-seater and NA 2+2 models. Coupled to either a 3-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission, the turbocharged model was capable of 180 bhp (130 kW) and 203 lbf·ft (275 N·m) of torque, over the 135 bhp (101 kW) and 144 lbf·ft (195 N·m) of the NA engine.

Notable models include the 10th Anniversary Edition, featuring gold emblems, gold alloy wheels, and two-toned paint in either gold/red and black, with luxury features such as leather seats, headlamp washers, and automatic climate control.

The 280ZX was wildly popular, being hailed as Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1979 and going on to set a Z-car sales record of 86,007 units in its first year.^[1] While on the one hand it received praise for taking the Z-car to further levels of comfort and performance, many enthusiasts also lamented the further emphasis on luxury over driving fun. This would continue with the third generation of Z-car, with a clean-sheet redesign that would take the Z-car to further heights.

[AlbatrossCafe]

2 hours ago, Carioca said:

I (wrongly) assumed ZX meant a 2+2, thus my confusion. So whats the diff between a 280Z and a 280 ZX?...that's prob what I would like to know. thanks.

Sounds like you need to start off with a lot more research. The "Z" cars used the first generation body style that many find to be more desirable. The ZX was made from 79-83 and uses a slightly updated version. The ZX in it's later years also had a turbo thrown into some of its engines. Lots of people like to swap this turbo into their earlier Z cars to kind of get the best of both worlds (looks of first generation + more powerful engine from second generation).

ZX's had a bit more of a "touring" feel than the earlier Z's.

[five&dime]

The roof/overall car length is longer on the 2+2 which IMO, just throws the proportions off.

 

Edited December 5, 2017 by five&dime

[Carioca]

I see what you mean. Thanks

[Carioca]

I am strugling with the issue of replacing the carpet on this 1982 280 ZX 2+2. 

There are a couple of kits between $400 and $650. But wouldnt it be better to have an upholstery shop custom cut and install all carpets? What is the group’s recommendation assuning cost is not a factor? Thanks

[Patcon]

I would think a job from scratch would cost more than either kit. Your best bet is to buy a good kit and get it professionally installed. They can massage it to make it fit good with heat and experience...