My '79 280ZX
 

I have a 79 280zx and wanna make it fast. I'm willing to put money into this, little by little, but I need help. It's a 218 non-turbo and very very clean. 80K original. I am second owner. I need lots of interior stuff, may consider different color than original brown. But what I'm most interested in right now is the engine and chassis. I want it to handle better, accelerate better, and have higher top end (more than the current 120 mph). Anybody out there know what their doing and want to give me pointers? Should I keep this engine? Should I bore it out? Are there racing front end parts I can use? I'm open to suggestions. Thanks all.
Rich from Phoenix

Re: My '79 280ZX
 

Rich,
Click on the rides link on the top navigation bar, and then go
to the 79' to 83' section. Look around there for ideas and info
on what people have done with their ZX's . Lots of stuff can
be done to make the car like you want it. Also on the left side
of this page is a featured car link . Check out what he has done
to his car. This will give you an idea on where to start.

Mike

Re: My '79 280ZX
 

If you want it to accelerate faster, I was going to suggest a different differential along with other basic bolt-on engine modifications. But, if you also want it to have a higher top speed, then you probably won't be happy with what the differential does for you. You'll need to consider a 280zx turbo engine swap. Or, buy a 280zx turbo and use your 79 280ZX for parts... now THAT would be much easier.

http://www.zipcon.net/bleach/pages/zcar/zlogo.jpg

Re: My '79 280ZX
 

I would suggest you send some time making the car lighter and improving the handling first. This will give you time to deciede the direction you wnat to go with mods. You will benefit from a lighter car and better handling whichever way you go.

I like the 1983 Maxima head conversion for real cheap power. It gives you a 10:1 compression ratio ( about max for a street car) and makes and increase at ALL rpms