duowing

Alright, I know I posted about a 240Z that kinda didn't work out. Anyway I'm still looking into S30Zs. I'm not so worried about performance. I know they are both very capable cars and can both be upgraded to perform. What I'm curious about is what you guys have to say. Oh and the only reason I say 240Z vs. 280Z is because they're about the only ones I can ever find for sale. Anyway, I know that they have similar features, the 280z were on par with the later 240Z, etc. I know they share the same chassis, but are there differences? Such as maybe the 280Z being an enlarged version of the 240Z's S30 chassis? I'm looking for a good comparison to help direct my decision. Any input from you guys is appreciated.

NismoPick

All S30's had the same BASIC body & suspension. The 280z (minus the 2+2) wasn't any bigger chassis-wise. The 280z did have some upgraded wiring due to fuel injection & some added weight who knows where. The biggest differences are the goofy big *** 280z bumpers & the turn signal lights moved to the grill. I personally think those bumpers are hideous as they stick out so far & have those accordian plastic end caps.

I loved my 240z... and I am trying to work a deal w/ a local guy to get a 280z right now. The first thing to go will be the bumpers. Then drop in the L28ET from my donor 280zxt.

duowing

I've heard people say things like there were differences in the quarter windows, the dash, the doors, and some other things? Were there upgraded features? If I'm not mistaken I believe the 280Z had a more upgraded sound system in comparison to the 240z? I don't believe there was yet A/C or Power steering, as well as cruise control, was there?

NismoPick

There are ocasional changes is seals & accessories. Was your original question about what fits what? or which car is better?

If you're worried about what parts fit what... look at the MSA & VB catalogs.

NismoPick

Later 240z's had a/c... and I don't think cruse control was introduced until the 280zx (not positive tho)

duowing

So essentially the biggest differences are really just the years on these cars? My only other thought is the interiors. Are there many differences between the interiors of these cars or are they still pretty similar. I love the whole dash setup and everything of the 240z. Does the 280z maintain that style?

NismoPick

Google / MSN images works wonders:

240Z:





280Z:

duowing

I'd have to say that the 280Z's interior actually looks a little nicer/cleaner in my opinion. Maybe I should change my signature to say I'm looking for a 280ZXT and a 280Z.

Eitherway I guess I wouldn't mind either. I find more 280Zs for sale than 240Zs though. So I'll have to keep an eye out. Thanks for clearing up some questions for me though.

As for the extra weight on the 280Z. I was reading things. The extra weight sounds like it in part came from any additions of A/C, the bumpers I guess which added around 130lbs, plus the gas tank was upgraded from 15.8 gallons to 17.5 gallons. So literally if you swapped out the bigger tank for a smaller tank, dropped the bumpers, etc. You'd be pretty close to a 240z.

jfairladyz

A 240Z would be, IMO, the better choice. Right from the get go you've got a superior vehicle. The 280Z was lack luster in performance in comparison to the 240Z. It weighed in at more than a similarly equipped 280zx which everyone regards as a heffer compared to the S30's. 280Z's are easier to find and for less money from what I've seen. Condition is another story though.

The reason you dont see many 260Z's listed for sale is because they had such a short and limited production run. Datsun was just trying to keep the Z on the market til they could release the 280Z.

No matter which route though you can still drop in that L28ET I'm not a big fan of the 280Z. If I was going to pick up an S30 car it'd be a 240. But hey, thats just me. Or is it

bjhines

There are hundreds of differences between the early 240Z and the last 280Zs... the changes came in almost every piece of the car... BUT... most of the parts are interchangable... there are good and bad things on each model...

assuming you can find equally rust free, straight shells....

For racing.. A 1970-71 240Z chassis would be the best choice... it is the lightest Z car ever made...


as far as added weight.... a laundry list of things became heavier or were added....

bumpers, chassis reinforcing EVERYWHERE, tranny, differential, wiring, fuel injection, interior and sound damping, dashboard, AC, bigger radiator, emissions pumps-lines-and hardware, etc...

take a peak into an early 240Z engine compartment... not much there at all...
look at the maze of wires, pipe, hoses, and hardware in a 280Z..

The area behind the dash is open and "unstuffed" in a early 240Z.. the 240Z kick panels are free of clutter...
A 280Z has buckets of extra wire and gadgets stuffed behind the dash and hanging off the kickpanels...

The chassis are drasticly different.. even though they have many interchangable parts...
later models added gussets all over the place... extra layers of thicker metal where bumpers attach... framerails extended all the way to rear... the entire floorpan was redesigned for the 280Z.. from front to rear... the front crossmembers got beefier by the year...

there are literally thousands of extra little bits in the later model S-30 cars...



On another note.... many people add reinforcement to the early chassis... some of it is well justified.... but for a race car... the roll cage will incorporate all the stiffening you need...

PooFlinginMonke

Improved touring 280z usually outweighs the 240z by at least 200 pounds.

bjhines

The relays and extra wire to make the wipers intermittant.. and make them auto cylcle with the washer button... added over a dozen wires that run the entire width of the car and a couple of relays and connectors... just that stuff adds a couple of pounds to the harness...

there are HUNDREDS more wires in a 280Z...

ASA240z

Some of the 240z's did come with a cruse control, although to find a 240z with one would be a rare find...

WildmaN

Me I have always like the S130's, and S30's. Personally one of the first rides I got in a Z was a '73 240z. I think I rode in a 280z, as a kid. But I was too little too remember, just memories. Then back in '95 I had a chance at a '77 280z with a 5 speed for $500! I just didn't have the money then. And just last year I could of had a rough '76 280z for $500. But decided I had too much on my plate already. So for choice for me, the 280z with a mild body kit. Because I am also not a big fan of the sticking out bumpers. But they are easier to find than a 240, and more convenient. And I just like some of the cosmetic better on the 280, but that is just opinion. Everybody has their own, and just my 2 cents on the subject.