Hi,
I just replaced the 5-speed tranny in my '79 280ZX with a 5-speed out of an '83. I was just wondering which transmission yields better overall performance? Which one has better gear ratios? Or are they about the same? Also, is there anything I should make special note of since I put the '83 tranny in my car? I mean, it seemed to be compatible, went in without a hitch. Thanks.
-Randy

 

Some of the ZX's had different ratios, I'm not sure which ones, but anyway all of them are compatible with one another except the BW I think.
John 82ZXT

 

I much prefer the early 5-speed due to the lower and closer 5th gear ratio...the later one is for better gas mileage. Here's some links that should more then answer any questions you've got.
Transmission calculator...great site to see what changes in gears/trans due to MPH
Listing of Z trans ratios
Zhome listing of trans and rearend ratios
Hope this more then helps!

 

I too have to replace my 79 tranny. The 79's had a wider ratio tranny than the 81-83's. 81-83 tranny's have a high 5th for cruising and closer trans ratio in gears1-4 for overall acceleration. One thing you may notice is that your 83 tranny in your 79 is a little sluggish. You might try swaping in an 81-83 n/a differential. It has a 3.90 diff. rather than the 3.54 your 79 has. By swapping in the 3.90 differential your drive train will act as it was supposed to. Check out the links posted above
hope it helps!

-TheeZ-