So, this is my first post on Zdriver and it is regarding a purchase I will make soon. I found a 1978 280z in great shape (no rust) and the seller of the car says will start and drive a few feet but then shuts down....the owner thinks it is something electrical and is willing to sell as is.


My question is does anyone know if this could be an easy fix? It be great if I could fix on the spot and not have to bring a trailer. Seller is asking for 3000.


I have been looking for any Z car with no rust and this is my first great find, any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

start it up and let it run for 10 minutes (or at least hot on the temp gage). If it will then it can be repaired to run correctly. The question is do you have the mechanical and electrical skills to repair it? it could be as simple as the battery and/or cables are shot. price is too high

 

Ok, thank you for the advice. Also a little more info to add, this is the 2.8L fuel injected standard engine, the owner also mentioned the battery will die from running (so will run till battery dies) and that he had alternator checked (no issue found).

 

take a new battery with you might be able to drive it home

 

No rust? Have you carefully checked out the rockers, floor pans, battery tray, area under the brake booster, rear hatch, and underneath the cover in back? I tell you what, there are plenty of places for rust to hide.

Factory Service Manuals are easy to find online (like in the link in my signature...if I remembered to update it). If you are light on experience, a general book may help you get oriented, too, like this one: .

There are plenty of things to check on a non-runner before plunking down $3000. How much more are you willing to spend? It may be a fine car, but it may need work. I probably have spent about twice as much on my 260Z as I originally paid for it ($2,500), but it got me from ATL to Memphis & back for the ZCCA Convention without a single worry this year.

Ultimately, you will decide whether or not it's worth $3,000. With a 40 year old car, it's more heart than head talking. Trust me. I own two.