I have a 1978 280Z, and I want to know if it is possible to swap in a turbo from a newer zx, or if it's worth it. I need every last hp I can get, the car is bone stock right now. If the turbo isn't the answer, what can I do for a comparable hp increase. The car is daily, ca smogged driver, with occasuional autoX and 1/4 mile runs.

 

Yes you can swap in a whole turbo motor. You will need the ecu or a system like SDS to manage the computer stuff.

Check if your rearend is an R200 or R180 i thing some of the earlier ones had the smaller diff but not sure.
You can increase the boost and add an intercooler and bigger trottle body and also bigger injectors but if you go this far then maybe best just to swap to a V 8 first. Jags That Run make a conversion instalation book. You should not just bolt the turbo on the 280 block because the unboosted compression is too high and you will toast the motor when the boost kicks in. The turbo block is strengthened too.
There are many conversion articles available for the turbo swap.
have fun! Mark 260T