1981 Datsun 280ZX Five-Speed

Description

Introduced in 1978 as the successor to the 280Z, the 280ZX brought significant advancements in both performance and comfort. By 1981, the ZX could be had with the standard LT28 2.8-liter inline-six engine. The naturally aspirated LT28 featured Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection and generated 145 hp. Standard transmission was a five-speed manual, although an optional three-speed automatic was also available. 

The 280ZX, offered as a two-seater or 2+2, emphasized luxury and refinement over the raw performance focus of its predecessors. This shift was evident in the improved sound insulation, a softer suspension setup, and options like the Red GL (Grand Luxury) trim, which included high-end materials and additional features like power windows and mirrors. The car’s exterior design retained the sleek lines of the earlier Z-cars but incorporated more integrated safety bumpers and improved aerodynamics, in addition to a slightly heavier build due to additional comfort features. 

This 1981 Datsun 280ZX Coupe has been owned by the same Ohio family since it was purchased new in January 1981. The survivor car has been meticulously maintained and garaged, and it has only minor imperfections that are commensurate with its age. 

Highlights 

• 1981 Datsun 280ZX Coupe offered from longtime single-family ownership, showing 44,647 believed miles 

• Finished in its original Alpine White paint with red pinstripes and rainbow stripes along the rocker panel 

• Original Red GL (Grand Luxury) interior package with cloth/vinyl bucket seats, power windows and mirrors, and upgraded AM/FM/Cassette stereo 

• Powered by an LT28 naturally aspirated 2.8-liter inline six-cylinder engine rated at 145 horsepower 

• Five-speed manual transmission  

• The chassis number (HS130254565) decodes as: 

  • H – L28 inline-six engine 

  • S – Two-door coupe 

  • 130 – Datsun 280ZX 

  • 254565 – Sequential production number 

Features 

• Two-door hatchback built in August 1980 

• Fog lights 

• Power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes 

• Power mirrors and windows 

• Air-conditioning 

• Cruise control 

• Driver-focused 85 mph speedometer/odometer, 7000 rpm tachometer, and fuel and coolant temperature gauges with center-mounted oil pressure and volts gauges and Quartz clock 

• BFGoodrich Radial T/A P205/70R14 tires 

Known Imperfections 

• Minor paint imperfections on the original rocker panel coating 

• Paint imperfections on underside edges of the rear wheel wells 

• Paint/finish has not been cleaned/buffed/detailed 

• Tires are date stamped 19th week of 2008 

Included 

• Original space saver spare tire with inflation can and jack set 

• Car cover 

• Original bill of sale 

• Original OEM documents 

• Owner's manual 

Ownership History 

According to ownership documents, this 1981 Datsun 280ZX Coupe was sold new by Tom Sweeny Inc. Datsun of Cincinnati, Ohio, on 30 January 1981, with the title transferred from father to son in February 1985. The car has been garaged since new, has never been damaged or repaired, and has been carefully maintained for more than four decades. The consignor, Z Car Guy Cincinnati, has recently driven the Datsun approximately 45 miles, both in the city and on the highway, as part of its inspection. The car has had a thorough lift inspection, and the fuel system has been serviced, with the fuel sending unit removed and the tank cleaned. 

Additional Notes  

A Broad Arrow Auctions Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. Broad Arrow Auctions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty. 

Contact: Matt Lowney Phone: 623.308.2640 email: mlowney@hagerty.com