I have a 1978 280z that I am now doing a full engine rebuild. I am going to be using the car as a daily driver/ Street Performance)

I am using an N42 Block with Flat Top Pistons with an N42 Head.

I am using a mild cam with these specs. Grind: 17033. Lift(In/Ex): .480/.480. Duration(In/Ex): 274/274. ( Put New rocker Arms, Springs etc.)

My question is what should I do about the transmission.

I have the stock 5 speed manual in there currently but it feels like it is going.

I was wondering what manual transmission would be best for this application and what transmissions would be a direct bolt in.

I have around $1200 to mess around with the rear end and the transmission along with any other cool goodys.

I have a brand new dash that has to go in as well if anyone has some cool replacement gauge sets that would be much appreciated as well or any other suggestions.

I am fairly new to the world of Z's but I know removing the 280z bumpers would be a good idea but I am not sure what I should put in place of them. If anyone has a suggestion that would be great.
Thanks.

Welcome to ZDriver!

Any L-Series trans will swap with any other L-Series trans (driveshaft output splines do differ though). There are also threads about using 240sx trans.