My friend is looking to buy a 77 280Z. I have not seen the car yet, but my friend said it was very clean and had only 119K on it. The guy is asking 6K obo. The mileage seems low for that old of a car. (I was going to ask for proof ) Can any of you past and present Z owners share some things to look out for when we go test drive and inspect the car. I plan on going today or tomorrow to check it out.

Thanks in advance.

Look for rust mainly, that's the mortal enemy of these cars. Look closely at the floorpans, framerails, and around all suspension mounting points.

check out the suspension bushings too...if they're the originals, they'll be badly dry rotted, and the car will be sloppy all over.

Weather seals is another thing to check...years can be hard on the rubber, and while you can get Isuzu Impulse door seals to work, the hatch seal needs to be OEM, and if it leaks, you'll gag on exhaust fumes from the back of the car, and replacements ain't cheap.

On the plus side, this will be a fuel injected car, so if it start up and runs well, it's probably OK. They only had 5 digit odometers, so 119k could be 219k...that would be a concern. I'd ask for a lot of history on the car. 119k would not be a concern, as the L series engines easily last 250k+ with just regular maintenance, though, you'll want to go over the fuel system to ensure all fuel lines are in good shape and not dry rotted/cracked.

Another thing on the first gens to check is whether it will hold a full tank of gas. There's a rubber tube down the filler neck to the tank that also dry rots and leaks. They're not terribly easy to replace, and finding the replacement hose isn't easy either.

Also, unless this thing is in near show condition, that's big money for a 280Z unless it's really nice. I sold a very nice '83 280ZXT a couple years ago with only 68k on the clock for $5k. I probably could have held out for more, but you get the idea.

If it's rusty underneath, walk away. The amount of work to do floor pans and frame rails ain't worth it unless you get the car for practically nothing.

Lastly, make sure all the smog equipment is there. This usually isn't as much a concern on the FI cars as the carbed ones, but if you have emissions inspections in the area, you'll want it to pass.

Thanks a ton DR! Great write up. I remember your car, too. I wish my friend could have gotten that one!

Take it easy,

Jason