Will 280ZX Wheels fit ?

[240Z240Z240Z]

Hi all,

I'm wondering if a set of stock 81-83 280ZX, 6 spoke, starfish style wheels will fit on a 240Z without issues ?

Has anyone done this ?

[Arne]

Yes, and yes.

[240Z240Z240Z]

Yes, and yes.

OK I found a nice polished set on CL and intend to buy them this weekend.

My next question is what make/model/size tires would be a good selection ?

They only need to be summer tires and I would like them to be general performance tires that don't cost more than around $100 each. The tires I have now are 60 series and they don't fill the wheel wells very well and they cause my speedo to be off, so this time I'd like something closer in diameter to the originals but obviously wider with a nice perfomance look.

I typically get my tires at Discount, any suggestions guys ?

[Arne]

For 14" tires with stock diameter, there are three sizes to consider - 195/70-14 (common, but not a lot of performance rubber), 205/65-14 (rare size), and 225/60-14 (not common any more, some performance tires may still be available). A fairly popular 14" size for Zs these days is 215/60-14. That's a little shorter than stock, but not a lot. A good width for the 6" wheels you are looking at, with a bit more selection than the 205/65 or 225/60 sizes.

[zbane]

My next question is what make/model/size tires would be a good selection ?

I think you will find that many people have had good experiences with Sumitomo HTR's (general performance and high performance available) or Yokohama Avids (H or V rated). I'm running Avid H4s, and enjoy the combination of ride quality and performance in all weather conditions. My set ran just shy of 400 bucks (including mounting).

Really, you need to consider your climate and terrain, driving style, and intended use for the car when looking at tires.

[240Z240Z240Z]

I think you will find that many people have had good experiences with Sumitomo HTR's (general performance and high performance available) or Yokohama Avids (H or V rated). I'm running Avid H4s, and enjoy the combination of ride quality and performance in all weather conditions. My set ran just shy of 400 bucks (including mounting).

Really, you need to consider your climate and terrain, driving style, and intended use for the car when looking at tires.

What size do you suggest for the 14"X6" rims ?

It's a fair weather car and I don't push it very hard so general performance summer tires are OK.

[zbane]

As Arne stated, the stock size is: 195/70-14

So here is list from tirerack for you to peruse in that size.

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/Compare1A.jsp?width=195%2F&ratio=70&diameter=14&skipOver=true&autoYear=1979&diameter=14&sortCode=34600&autoModel=280ZX&skipOver=true&ratio=70&autoMake=Datsun&minLoad=S&autoModClar=&minSpeedRating=S&width=195%2F&vehicleSearch=true&startIndex=0&search=true&pagelen=20&pagenum=1&pagemark=1&speed_rating=S&speed_rating=T&speed_rating=U&speed_rating=H&speed_rating=V&speed_rating=Z&speed_rating=W&speed_rating=Y&speed_rating=(Y)&RunFlat=All

[Arne]

I'm also running 195/70-14s on 6" wheels on my 240Z. That is the stock size on 280Zs, and is the same height as the stock 240Z size of 175-14 but about 3/4" wider. It's a good all around size for moderate use.

[Bruce Palmer]

John Layton the manager of Discount Tire Puyallup WA has much experience with fitment on early Zsssssss. In fact I heard he is putting his Z up for sale. Great car, lotsa Epperly content.

[240Z240Z240Z]

John Layton the manager of Discount Tire Puyallup WA has much experience with fitment on early Zsssssss. In fact I heard he is putting his Z up for sale. Great car, lotsa Epperly content.

I found a guy near me that has a set of the polished rims I want with caps and lugs for $200, so I'm getting them ASAP!

I talked to my local Discount Tire guy and he has Michelin Destiny's for $72, they have a good user rating and should do well for my application. Most all of the 195 70 14" are all season now, which will be OK.

Thanks all!