Datsun 0-60 & Quarter Mile Times

The Datsun 280ZX Turbo emerged in the early 1980s as a potent symbol of Japanese performance. Building upon the popular 280ZX platform, the addition of a turbocharger elevated this sports car to new heights. Under the hood, a 2.8-liter inline-six engine, now force-fed with boost, delivered an impressive 180 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. This power propelled the 280ZX Turbo from 0 to 60 mph in around 7.2 seconds, making it one of the quickest Japanese imports at the time.

The 280ZX Turbo's performance wasn't just about straight-line speed. It boasted sharp handling and precise steering, making it a joy to drive on winding roads. Its sleek, aerodynamic body and distinctive turbo badging set it apart from its non-turbocharged siblings. Inside, a comfortable and well-appointed cabin awaited drivers and passengers, with available features like T-tops for open-air cruising.

Despite its impressive performance and luxurious touches, the 280ZX Turbo faced stiff competition from both domestic muscle cars and European sports cars. However, it carved out a dedicated following among enthusiasts who appreciated its unique blend of performance, style, and affordability. Today, the 280ZX Turbo remains a sought-after classic, embodying a pivotal era in Japanese automotive history.

The 1970 Datsun 240Z was a revelation in the automotive world. It was a stylish, affordable sports car that delivered both performance and reliability, challenging the established European competitors. Under its long, sleek hood resided a 2.4-liter inline-six engine producing 151 horsepower, propelling the lightweight coupe to a top speed of 125 mph. It could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around 8.6 seconds, a respectable figure for its time.

Beyond its performance, the 240Z captivated drivers with its sharp handling and responsive steering. It carved corners with confidence, providing an engaging driving experience that was both thrilling and accessible. The interior was surprisingly spacious and comfortable, featuring supportive bucket seats and a well-organized dashboard. Its exterior design, with its iconic long hood and short deck, was both elegant and timeless, further solidifying its appeal.

Upon its release, the Datsun 240Z was met with critical acclaim and quickly became a sales success. It democratized the sports car segment, proving that exhilarating performance didn't have to come with an exorbitant price tag. Its impact was lasting, as it paved the way for future generations of Z cars and solidified Datsun, later Nissan, as a serious player in the global automotive market. Today, the 1970 240Z remains an icon, cherished by enthusiasts for its timeless design, engaging driving dynamics, and the revolutionary role it played in automotive history.

The 1971 Datsun 510 Coupe was a remarkable compact car that defied expectations and became a cult classic among automotive enthusiasts. Its unassuming exterior concealed a spirited performance and agile handling that belied its humble origins. Under the hood, the 510 Coupe offered a range of engines, with the top-tier model boasting a 1.8-liter inline-four that produced a modest 96 horsepower. While not blisteringly fast, the 510's light weight and balanced chassis allowed it to dance through corners with remarkable precision.

The 510's driving dynamics were its most endearing quality. Its fully independent suspension and responsive steering made it a joy to pilot on winding roads. It was equally adept at navigating city streets, offering nimble handling and a comfortable ride. Inside, the cabin was simple and functional, with comfortable seating and ample space for passengers and cargo. Its understated design, with clean lines and chrome accents, exuded a timeless charm.

Although the 1971 Datsun 510 Coupe may not have been the fastest or most powerful car on the market, its balanced performance, affordability, and engaging driving experience earned it a devoted following. Its success in both street driving and motorsports solidified its reputation as a giant slayer, capable of outperforming more expensive and exotic rivals. Today, the 510 remains a beloved classic, celebrated for its underdog spirit and the simple joys of driving it provides.

The 1972 Datsun 240Z, a legend in its own right, offered an automatic transmission option for those seeking a more relaxed driving experience. While the manual transmission variant was favored by enthusiasts for its sporty character, the automatic 240Z provided a comfortable and refined alternative.

Under the hood, the same 2.4-liter inline-six engine delivered a smooth 151 horsepower, though the automatic's 3-speed gearbox sacrificed some of the engaging driving dynamics associated with the manual. However, it made the 240Z more accessible to a wider range of drivers, particularly those who preferred the convenience of an automatic in daily driving.

Despite the automatic transmission, the 1972 240Z retained its iconic styling, with its long hood, flowing lines, and distinctive rear hatch. Inside, the cabin offered a blend of sportiness and luxury, with comfortable bucket seats, a stylish dashboard, and ample space for two occupants. The automatic 240Z might not have been the purist's choice, but it offered a unique blend of performance, comfort, and style that appealed to a different segment of the market. It remains a sought-after classic today, valued for its rarity and representing a unique chapter in the 240Z's history.

The 1983 Datsun 280ZX marked the end of an era for the beloved Z-car. This model year represented the final iteration before the transition to the Nissan brand and the introduction of the 300ZX. Under its sleek and aerodynamic exterior, the 1983 280ZX continued to offer a balanced blend of performance, comfort, and style.

Powered by a 2.8-liter inline-six engine, the 280ZX delivered a respectable 145 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. While not the most potent sports car of its time, it provided ample power for spirited driving and comfortable cruising. It was available with either a 5-speed manual or a 3-speed automatic transmission, catering to different driving preferences. The 280ZX's suspension provided a compliant ride while still maintaining decent handling characteristics, making it well-suited for both daily driving and weekend excursions.

Inside, the 1983 280ZX offered a driver-focused cockpit with supportive seats, clear instrumentation, and a range of available features, including T-tops for open-air motoring. Its design, though evolving from the original 240Z, retained the classic long hood, short deck proportions that defined the Z-car lineage. The 1983 Datsun 280ZX, while not a groundbreaking model, holds a special place in automotive history as the last of its kind. It remains a sought-after classic car, cherished by enthusiasts for its timeless design, comfortable interior, and the legacy it represents as part of the legendary Z-car family.