Vintage Racer: 1977 Datsun 280Z

GuysWithRides’ is excited to offer Lot 25030, a vintage race ready 1977 Datsun (Nissan) 280Z in a reserve price auction.  Bidding opened Thursday, August 28, 2025 and will end at 4 PM Eastern Time on Thursday, Spetember 11, 2025.  This 1977 Datsun 280Z vinrage race car currently resides with the builder and owner in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

This 1977 Datsun 280Z stands as a testament to the golden age of Japanese sports car racing and the dedication of vintage motorsport enthusiasts. This isn’t merely a restored classic car—it’s a purpose-built racing machine that has earned its stripes on America’s most prestigious historic racing circuits, capturing a class championship in the Historic Sports car Racing (HSR) series.

The heart of this competition-bred Z-car is a meticulously engineered powerplant that represents the pinnacle of naturally aspirated inline-six performance. The original L28 engine has been transformed into a stroked 2.8-liter monster, built around a bored F54 block utilizing a V07 LD28 crankshaft. Wiseco pistons and Pauter connecting rods ensure reliability under the extreme stresses of vintage racing, while a P90 head maximizes breathing efficiency. The entire assembly is managed by a sophisticated MOTEC EFI system, professionally tuned by Andres Lamus of ANCLA Motorsports, delivering the precise fuel mapping essential for competitive performance.

Power transmission is handled by a custom-built Tremec close-ratio 5-speed manual gearbox, specifically chosen for its ability to keep the engine in its optimal power band through the varied demands of historic racing circuits. A Tilton twin-disc clutch system provides the necessary holding power while maintaining the precise engagement characteristics demanded by serious competition driving. At the rear, a Quaife limited-slip differential with 3.90 final drive gears ensures optimal power delivery to both wheels while maintaining the mechanical reliability essential for endurance racing.

The chassis represents a masterful balance between vintage racing regulations and modern safety requirements. Built around a semi tube-frame construction, the car maintains the essential character of the original 280Z while providing the structural rigidity necessary for serious competition. Koni coilover suspension components work in conjunction with a comprehensive AZCAR (Arizona Z Car) rear suspension setup, delivering the precise handling characteristics that made the Z-car legendary on road courses across America.

Stopping power comes courtesy of Wilwood four-wheel disc brakes, a significant upgrade over the original equipment and essential for the higher speeds and more aggressive driving that vintage racing demands. The brake system reflects the car’s serious racing intentions while maintaining period-appropriate aesthetics.

Safety equipment meets or exceeds current vintage racing standards, with a full roll cage, Corbeau competition seat, Simpson five-point harness system, and onboard fire suppression. These additions underscore the car’s active competition status and commitment to driver safety in high-speed vintage racing environments.

Visually, the car sports ZTRIX IMSA bodywork finished in a striking patriotic red, white, and blue livery that makes it instantly recognizable on track. This isn’t merely aesthetic—the bodywork provides improved aerodynamics while maintaining the classic Z-car silhouette that enthusiasts cherish.

The car has maintained an active presence in both HSR and SVRA (Sports Vintage Racing Association) competition since 1998, when it claimed its HSR class championship. This extensive racing pedigree demonstrates not only the car’s performance capabilities but also its mechanical reliability and the owner’s commitment to preserving and actively campaigning this piece of motorsport history.

The package includes practical racing essentials: three complete sets of wheels for different track conditions, a spare aluminum driveshaft, and an Innovate LM-2 wideband air/fuel meter for ongoing tuning optimization. These details reflect the thoughtful preparation of a serious vintage racer who understands the demands of historic motorsport competition.

The seller’s 1977 Datsun 280Z represents the perfect intersection of Japanese engineering excellence, American hot-rod ingenuity, and vintage racing passion—a true champion that continues to honor the competitive spirit of the Z-car legacy.