🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Datsun

Model:

280ZX

Model Code:

S130

Year:

1983

Generation Code:

2nd Generation (S130)

Chassis Code:

S130

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Datsun 280ZX represented a premium sports car in its era, targeting enthusiasts seeking performance, style, and a blend of Japanese engineering with luxury features. This manual caters to owners and independent workshops aiming to maintain and repair this classic Japanese sports coupe.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed with American muscle cars, European sports cars, and other Japanese performance vehicles. Its unique blend of styling, comfort, and reliable inline-six power set it apart. This manual provides the detailed technical information necessary to keep such a vehicle in optimal condition, a critical factor for classic car ownership.

Key Features:

Provides comprehensive, factory-level repair information for the 1983 Datsun 280ZX. Features step-by-step instructions, detailed diagrams, and extensive specifications, enabling both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics to perform accurate and efficient repairs. PC & MAC compatible PDF format ensures easy access and usability.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Entire vehicle, front to back

Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, drivetrain, manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, driveline, propeller shaft, rear axle, suspension (front & rear), steering system, brakes (front & rear), hydraulic system, electrical system (wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, accessories), climate control, body & chassis, interior, exterior trim, diagnostics, troubleshooting, specifications.

Procedures Included:

Step-by-step repair instructions, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, maintenance schedules, component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, exploded views, diagrams, torque specifications, electrical schematics, alignment specifications, fluid capacities, and specifications for all major systems.

Technical Depth:

Professional quality, highly detailed, covering routine maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics. Equivalent to OEM factory service manuals used by professional mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections as needed.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download - Printable)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download - Printable)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

L28E

Engine Displacement:

2753 cc (2.8 Liters)

Engine Configuration:

Inline 6-Cylinder, Overhead Cam (OHC)

Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 79.0 mm (3.39 in x 3.11 in)

Compression Ratio:

8.3:1 (for L28E)

Horsepower Est:

145-150 hp @ 5200 rpm (approximate, varies slightly by market/spec)

Torque Est:

205-210 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approximate)

Fuel System:

Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection (Electronic Fuel Injection - EFI)

Engine Management:

ECU controlled ignition and fuel delivery

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with fan and thermostat

Lubrication System:

Forced lubrication system with oil pump and filter

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission

Optional Transmission:

3-speed automatic transmission (e.g., Jatco 3N71B)

Transmission Features:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD), independent rear suspension (IRS) on early models, solid axle on later models (check specific chassis codes for IRS vs. solid axle variations within S130).

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

Approx. 174.4 inches (4430 mm) - Coupe

Exterior Width:

Approx. 66.7 inches (1695 mm)

Exterior Height:

Approx. 50.2 inches (1275 mm) - Coupe

Wheelbase:

Approx. 91.3 inches (2320 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3000-3200 lbs (1360-1450 kg), depending on body style and equipment.

Cargo Volume:

Limited trunk space, typical for a 2+2 sports coupe.

🛡️ Safety Features

Passive Features:

Safety glass, crumple zones, padded dashboard, three-point seatbelts (front), collapsible steering column.

Active Features:

Power-assisted front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (power assist optional/standard depending on trim).

Brake Specifications:

Front: Ventilated Discs (10.1 inches / 257mm), Rear: Drums (7.9 inches / 200mm). Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some later models.

Tire Size:

Commonly 195/70R14 or 205/60R15 (check original specifications for exact fitment).

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x114.3 mm (4.5 inch)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player, power antenna, speaker controls. Analog gauges for speed, RPM, fuel, temperature, oil pressure.

Driver Assistance:

Power steering, cruise control (optional on some models).

Connectivity:

N/A (No modern connectivity features).

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

Refer to the manual for precise intervals for oil changes (e.g., every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months), filter changes, spark plug replacement, timing belt inspection/replacement (though the L28E uses a timing chain), coolant flushes, and brake fluid changes.

Fluid Specifications:

Engine Oil: SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (API SF or SG classification, check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature). Transmission Fluid: GL-4 gear oil for manual transmission (e.g., 75W-90), Dexron III ATF for automatic. Coolant: Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water). Brake Fluid: DOT 3.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.1 US quarts (4.8 liters) with filter change.

Cooling System Capacity:

Approx. 8.0 US quarts (7.6 liters).

Spark Plugs:

NGK or equivalent, specific part number and gap to be found in the manual (e.g., NGK BP5ES or similar).

Known Issues:

Rust in common areas (wheel wells, rocker panels, floor pans), aging electrical components and wiring harness degradation, worn fuel injectors and pump in EFI systems, worn suspension bushings, differential mounts, and potential for fuel system component failure due to age. The L-series engine is generally robust, but maintenance is key.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Datsun (later rebranded as Nissan) has a long history of producing reliable and innovative vehicles, particularly known for its sports cars and robust inline-six engines. The Z-car lineage is iconic.

Model Evolution:

The 280ZX (S130) was the second generation of the Datsun Z-car. It evolved from the original 240Z/260Z/280Z, offering a more refined, comfortable, and luxurious experience, often referred to as a 'Grand Tourer' rather than a pure sports car. It featured a longer wheelbase, independent rear suspension (on early models), and updated styling. The 1983 model year was the final year for the S130 generation before its replacement by the 300ZX (Z31).

Production Years:

1978-1983 (for S130 generation)

Manufacturing Locations:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1983 model year are not widely publicized, the Datsun/Nissan Z-car series has consistently been recognized for its performance, styling, and value. The 280ZX was a successful model in its segment, often featured in automotive enthusiast publications of its time.