Experts;
There is a '82 280zx turbo auto w/t-tops for sale in AZ and I was curious of what you felt the value was; well if it was worth $500. I hear that a lot of people do transplants of their Z's with a turbo Z engine. I haven't found the pro's and con's of it though. I know that low RPM power is sacrificed due to compression; but anyone have any other complaints? My goal isn't a high HP monster; just something that is quick and definitely quick off the line. Also fun to drive and handles well (already does that).
I currently have '77 280Z w/ a 5 spd off a '79 280zx.

At the minimum I would either re-sell the car as is or part it out. It has t-tops and snowflake rims that are in great condition. Only the driver side door is bad; otherwise body is very straight. The tranny leaks bad and barely shifts; the car seems to run decent but vibrates a little. The vibration could be due to bad alignment also. It does build boost but will need a rebuild of the turbo. The turbo components look to be in great condition amazingly. The engine though looks to be leaking at the head gasket. That scares me.

Let me know EVERYONES thoughts and opinions!?

 

I think it would be worth $500. The snowflakes alone are worth half that. You won't have any complaints about low RPM power because you'll be hitting full boost before 3000 RPM with the stock turbo.

 

Snowflake rims are rare, but not highly sought after. You'd be very lucky to get $200 for a set. I've seen the 82-83 turbo wheels sell for more. BUT, the value of the complete engine is $500-700. I was bidding on one in Washington. (just the engine and tranny with all wires) and it went up to $800!!!

Luckily I got outbid. I later found a complete car for much less. You can resell that engine with everything attached for $500, then sell the transmission (maybe $20, autos are not worth much) and part out the rest.

If you only want it to be quick around town, go nonturbo. Get the 81-83 NA engine, raise compression, mild cam, 4.11 rear gears and you're set.

The turbo engine doesnt nessisarily have less power at low rpms, its just not quite as much as a modified NA engine and its a lot less torque compared to 2500rpm where the boost starts to come in. The NA engines feel a little more spirited for casual driving. The turbo engine is for the occasional drag race. (racing yourself of course, nobody else)

I'm sure you'll enjoy the ride with either type of engine buildup. But buy that car! You can't go wrong for 500.

 

This is what she looks like...let me know more thoughts!

 

Some exterior...interior is all shot; no good panels or seats at all. Power window works though surprisingly.

 

Those are not snowflake rims.

 

Sorry...I meant to say that in my last post. He told me they were; but when I got there I noticed that. I did see those "cross" rims on ebay for 175 though.