So I still have my '81 which runs great, mechanically most things are new but the body is almost beyond trying to save between rust and crash damage, and the interior has been shot since before I got it (almost exactly 10 years ago at this point). I just picked up an '83 (t-top, 2 seater, 5spd) that is damn near rust free, all the hard work has been taken care of, and the rest of the body/interior is still pretty decent as well. It's physically in all around better shape than my '81 minus the fact that it doesn't start. I suspect it's the computer (which I am aware is a nightmare on an '83) because the PO replaced everything else imaginable. I was originally planning on just using it for the body but it's a pretty decent car all around (except the exterior styling, I personally hate the facelift). I'm just gonna start over with this car and use my 81 as the world's greatest pats car since everything is basically brand new.

Just trying to figure out what parts I can actually use on the new car though. I know there a bunch of differences between the two, I'm not asking about different color options, the voice box, digital speedo, exterior styling, etc... I'm mainly concerned with mechanical stuff. I remember the rear suspension is different, but I don't know what about it was changed. Would there be any way I could still fit my struts to the 83 or it it a completely different setup? I know the computer is very different, but is there any way to use the wiring harness and computer out of my 81 or is everything electronic totally different? I've noticed a lot of things like the fuel pump and AFM have the same part number so I'd assume most parts are the same. I'm pretty sure the distributor is different but if it's as simple as just swapping it out with mine I'm not concerned. I personally am not a fan of the digital dash, can I simply swap it out with my cluster or do they work very differently? That kind of stuff.


If anyone really knows these cars and has any input that would be great! Thanks guys, good to be back (though it looks like this place is dead).

 

Oh, also recently noticed it's a friggin California car. How much difference does that make?

 

Dear,
there is not much difference between the two years of the 280zx. the difference in the engine is mainly in the intake and hosing system. Also, the throttle module is different from the ECU. You can replace the odometer without any problem or change. I believe there is a difference in the struts of course and the differential since there are two types that have come in the 280zx. I believe 1983 has the 9000 differential and 1981 has the 7000.