1977 Datsun 280Z Convertible - And away she goes!

We have spent the last few posts going over transformation of a 1978 Datsun 280Z Convertible.  What started out as stock with fun tweaks has become an amazing machine!

Driving this car is unlike any other Z we have been involved with in 30 + years. It's a convertible Z with 350hp, high-end brakes, comfortable interior and modern steering. Pulling away from a stop light the car is happy when driven normally and happy when you want to open it up. Actually, its slightly biased toward being opened up. The performance clutch and lightened flywheel are civil but lean toward the higher side of the rpm spectrum.  The ball bearing turbo lets you know its spooling and 6,000 rpm comes quickly and the 3" stainless exhaust system has a deep rumble. You feel very comfortable driving this car. It cruises and it hauls ***. It's ready and waiting for what you feel like at any given moment.

 The suspension is stiff but still compliant. When you get into the accelerator pedal the tires stay put and deliver the power to the pavement. Brake pedal pressure is a little soft on the front end with enough pedal travel to allow for modulation without locking the Wilwood calipers up. If heavy braking is required, make sure you're belted in!

What a fun car this has been to build when we were actually working on it and not waiting for parts to arrive. Since the majority of parts were custom built, a project like this can find many months of down time, delays and fields of crickets...  But all of that patience has paid off.  It is a truly incredible machine, and its patient owner has waited with dreams of great things to come. And GREAT they received. 

While we are sad to see her go, her owner has welcomed her home with open arms.   So what's next on our project list?  You'll just have to wait and see…