First time buying a Z car - what to look out for?

[damage]

Yeah I'll be passing on that one. The problem is most of the ones I see listed in the Bay Area are hacked up and weird looking.

Anyways, here's two that look interesting...

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/pen/cto/2218181734.html

^ panels look straight and has some basic useful mods. but it doesn't look like it's been babied by any means.

Then there's this 260z. I know it's not as desireable, but it looks pristine

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/cto/2218110024.html

How hard would it to be to change out the smog stuff.

[IdahoKidd]

Good call on passing. One of the guys in our group has a very early and a very late 260. Getting the right parts are a matter of getting across to the parts guy what you have. I could be wrong, but don't think they made a 75 260 though (in the states). Think they were the fist fuel injected 280's. Been a long time since I fooled with CA emissions, but I 'think' that 75 and older is exempt. Absolutely double check with CARB or online, but check from a reliable source. FWIW, I bought 1 owner 240 with 43K miles in pretty damn good condition for $1000. Put another $600 into it, hoses, belts, brakes, general stuff, and have a great car. You can literally put a dollar value on patience. And a little luck never hurts!

[5150 will]

That 260 looks like it might be more in the ballpark. When/if you look at it make sure you do your standard rust issue check. Try to find out if it was stored inside. It looks as if it probably was from the pics on C.L. There will be no smog required for a '75 and older year model vehicle. In looking at it I would say it's probably an early '74 just due to the bumpers. I find that sometimes people on C.L. don't really know everything about a vehicle they are listing.

[chape]

Make sure it is not stolen....my Z was stolen last night and I am searching classifieds to see if it turns up.

[Reverend]

I'd take that 260Z. Paint on that 240Z looks crappy.