You’ll find dozens of Datsun Z cars for sale on eBay - opens in new window or tab. at any given time. You can discover meticulously restored time capsules, rusty project cars, and everything in between. But the 1976 Datsun 280Z recently offered by Miami’s Real Muscle Car (RMC) Miami is like no other. It’s a sleek rally-ready beast that can traverse unpaved roads and other uncharted paths.
RMC built this Safari Z in late 2020. A 1.5-inch lift with custom billet spacers - opens in new window or tab. and KYB shocks - opens in new window or tab. add ground clearance. The car rides on a gorgeous set of black ROTA alloy wheels - opens in new window or tab., clad with Continental Viking Contact tires - opens in new window or tab.. The front disc brakes - opens in new window or tab. are “Toyota-sourced.”
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1976 Was Peak 280Z in US
Finding a solid and intact driver at the right price point can be tricky. Too many Zs fall victim to the V-8 swap craze - opens in new window or tab.. More horsepower is always fun. But a butchered engine job will lower a vehicle’s value. On the other hand, RMC’s handiwork on the Z for sale gives it an enthusiast premium.
The 280Z, produced between 1975 and 1978, marked the third and final chapter for Nissan’s S30 series in the United States. About a quarter-million 280Zs were manufactured during its four-year run.
280Z output peaked in 1976, with nearly 64,000 units built in that year. That’s the year that yielded the rally-ready model for sale now on eBay. Starting in 1979, Nissan moved on to the bloated yet more civilized 280ZX (S130).
Power output from the 280Z was modest but adequate, with the 2.8-liter inline-six receiving a factory rating of 179 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque.
How Many 280Zs Have Skid Plates and Baja Lighting?
The engine is stock, except for larger fuel injectors and tube headers, which feed a single-outlet 3-inch custom exhaust. The optional five-speed transmission doesn’t just add a gear. It adds value, as well.
Reinforcements clad the belly of the beast with a powder-coated front skid plate. Z-cars are notorious rust-magnets. RMC says this about the adventure-oriented Z for sale:
The floors are very clean and in excellent condition. The frame rails have been thickened and reinforced.
The chassis features braces at the front and rear. Baja lighting - opens in new window or tab., a flat black hood, dual fender stripes, BRE-style spoilers - opens in new window or tab., and a roll bar - opens in new window or tab. complete the look.
Will it pass an American Rally Association - opens in new window or tab. tech inspection? That will require consultation with the association if you’re planning to hit the stages.
Meanwhile, Eddie, the sales contact at RMC Miami, says this about the $34,900 Buy-It-Now Price for the 1976 Datsun Z-Series 280Z rally machine:
This is an attainable car built to be driven. It’s not crazy money. You can drive it on the highway at speed, go off-roading, and drive back home with the A/C blasting. It rides super smooth, and the clock even works.
If you’re not able to snag this extraordinary example, eBay regularly offers many Z-Series cars. We also provide 280Z parts - opens in new window or tab. and countless off-road parts - opens in new window or tab. to make your own Datsun rally-ready racer.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.