Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended)
Lubrication
Oil Capacity W Filter:
5.0 US quarts (4.7 Liters)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 or 10W-40 (API SG or similar)
Cooling System
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.8 US quarts (7.4 Liters)
Ignition System
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (breakerless distributor)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Std:
4-speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Transmission Type Opt:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (Nissan/Datsun FS5W71B for manual, Jatco 3N71B for auto)
Features
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, single dry plate
Fluid Specs
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent) ATF
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
163.2 inches (4145 mm)
Width:
64.2 inches (1630 mm)
Height:
50.4 inches (1280 mm)
Wheelbase:
90.7 inches (2300 mm)
Front Track:
53.7 inches (1365 mm)
Rear Track:
53.5 inches (1358 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 3130 lbs (1420 kg)
Curb Weight Automatic:
Approx. 3200 lbs (1451 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not explicitly stated, but typically around 4000 lbs
Fuel Tank Capacity:
14.5 US gallons (55 Liters)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings 1976:
N/A (NHTSA ratings were not standardized or widely available in this format)
Active Features
Brakes:
Power-assisted front disc brakes, rear drum brakes
Steering:
Recirculating ball steering
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts
Windshield:
Laminated safety glass windshield
Headrests:
Integrated headrests on bucket seats
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with optional 8-track player or cassette deck (typically aftermarket upgrades)
Speakers:
Dash-mounted and rear parcel shelf speakers
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional
Power Steering:
Optional
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months
Tune Up Frequency:
Recommended every 15,000 - 20,000 miles (spark plugs, ignition timing, fuel mixture)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (or as per manual recommendations)
Coolant Flush:
Every 24,000 - 30,000 miles or 2 years
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
DEXRON-II ATF or equivalent (if power steering equipped)
Known Issues
Rust Prone Areas:
Lower body panels, wheel wells, rocker panels, battery tray area, around windows
Fuel Injection System:
L-Jetronic system can be sensitive to vacuum leaks, fuel pump issues, and airflow meter problems. Diagnostics can be challenging.
Ignition System:
Distributor, coil, and ignition control module can fail with age.
Cooling System:
Radiator leaks, thermostat sticking, and aging hoses are common. Overheating can occur.
Drive Shaft Universal Joints:
Wear in U-joints can lead to clunking noises and vibrations.
Electrical System:
Aging wiring harnesses, faulty relays, and corroded grounds can cause intermittent electrical gremlins.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Origin:
Datsun (now Nissan) is a Japanese automobile manufacturer founded in 1933.
Model Evolution
Datsun 240Z To 280Z:
The 280Z was the final iteration of the S30 generation, evolving from the 240Z and 260Z, with a larger displacement engine and fuel injection to meet US emissions and performance demands.
S30 Generation Years:
1970-1978 (with 280Z production starting in 1975)
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Hiratsuka factory primarily)
Global Impact:
The Datsun Z cars were instrumental in establishing Japanese sports cars in the Western market, particularly in the US.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Vehicle Awards:
The Datsun 280Z and its predecessors are widely recognized as iconic sports cars and are frequent recipients of 'classic car' accolades and features in automotive publications.
Market Impact:
Credited with popularizing the affordable sports car segment and challenging established European and American competitors.