1982 Datsun 280ZX Coupe Five-Speed

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Huntsville, Alabama — or “Rocket City,” as we know it — is home to NASA rocket-propulsion research and development. Nothing quite encapsulates the launch and excitement of the region as this out-of-world collection of cars including movie cars and tributes, desirable classics, and a rocket truck itself. 3… 2… 1… These cars are ready for blastoff, and all will be launched to new homes and garages as all lots are presented with NO RESERVE.      *  *  *     Introduced in 1978 as the successor to the 280Z, the 280ZX brought significant advancements in both performance and comfort. By 1981, the ZX could be had with the standard LT28 2.8-liter inline-six engine. The naturally aspirated LT28 featured Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection and generated 145 hp. Standard transmission was a five-speed manual, although an optional three-speed automatic was also available.  

The 280ZX, offered as a two-seater or 2+2, emphasized luxury and refinement over the raw performance focus of its predecessors. This shift was evident in the improved sound insulation, a softer suspension setup, and options like the Grand Luxury trim, which included high-end materials and additional features like power windows and mirrors. The car’s exterior design retained the sleek lines of the earlier Z-cars but incorporated more integrated safety bumpers and improved aerodynamics, in addition to a slightly heavier build due to additional comfort features.  

This very original 1981 Datsun 280ZX Coupe was sold new at Phil Tolkan Datsun in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and features dealer-installed options like side stripes and a very fashionable (in 1981) CB radio, all documented by the original dealer paperwork. 

Highlights 

• Offered from The Rocket City Collection 

• Finished in Medium Blue Metallic (924) paint over blue/white velour upholstery 

• Powered by an LT28 naturally aspirated 2.8-liter inline six-cylinder engine rated at 145 horsepower  

• Five-speed manual transmission 

• Factory T-Tops with tinted glass 

• Clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report  

Features 

• AM/FM/Cassette stereo 

• Power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes  

• Air-conditioning  

• Power mirrors and door locks 

• Dealer-installed options include: 

  • Side stripes  

  • CB radio (but handheld CB Radio control unit is missing) 

  • Fabric care  

  • Shine On  

  • Mud flaps  

  • Floor mats  

  • Rustproofing 

Known Imperfections 

• Paint imperfections, including paint chips up front, scratch on hood, small dent on passenger front fender, and scrapes/rust on top edge of hatch (near rear washer sprayer)  

• Indentations in chrome on hatch  

• Headliner has pulled away from roof and is drooping 

• CB Radio control unit is no longer with the car  

• Face of stereo is worn 

Included 

• T-Top sleeves  

• Carpeted 280ZX floor mats  

• Copy of original order sheet and other dealer documents 

Ownership History 

Sold new at Phil Tolkan Datsun in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the accompanying CARFAX Vehicle History Report places this 1982 Datsun 280ZX Coupe in Wisconsin, possibly with the original owner until 2021, then Ohio, until joining The Rocket City Collection in 2024.  

Additional Notes 

A Broad Arrow Auctions Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. Broad Arrow Auctions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty. 

Contact: Ramsey Potts   Phone: 912.508.4096   email: rpotts@hagerty.com