Positioning:
The Datsun 280ZX (S130) represented a significant step in Nissan's luxury sports coupe offerings, aiming to compete with European GTs and American muscle cars with a focus on performance, comfort, and advanced features for its era.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Chevrolet Camaro/Firebird, Ford Mustang, Pontiac Trans Am, and European coupes such as the BMW 3 Series (E21) and Mercedes-Benz SLC.
Features:
Introduction of the '2+2' bodystyle, optional T-tops, sophisticated fuel injection, power steering, and a focus on interior comfort and amenities.
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, overhaul, and specifications for the L28E engine.
Fuel System:
Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system components, troubleshooting, and repair.
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition system diagnostics and service.
Transmission:
Service and repair for both the 5-speed manual (FS5W71B) and optional 3-speed automatic transmissions.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive system, driveshaft, differential, and axle service.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including struts, control arms, bushings, and alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis, repair, and components.
Brakes:
Front disc and rear drum brake system service, including hydraulics, calipers, rotors, and shoes.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, starter, alternator, and battery service.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, glass, and chassis components.
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system service and repair.
Emissions Control:
Emissions system components and diagnosis.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues.
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component removal, overhaul, and reinstallation.
Rebuilding:
Engine, transmission, and differential rebuilding procedures.
Restoration:
Guidance applicable to restoring the vehicle's systems to original specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Engine Type:
Inline-6, Overhead Camshaft (OHC)
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2753 cc)
Horsepower:
Approximately 145-150 hp (SAE Net) depending on market and specific configuration.
Torque:
Approximately 205-210 lb-ft (SAE Net) depending on market and specific configuration.
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts)
Length:
Approx. 4610 mm (181.5 in) Coupe / 4700 mm (185 in) 2+2
Width:
Approx. 1725 mm (67.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1295 mm (51.0 in) Coupe / 1305 mm (51.4 in) 2+2
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1345-1450 kg (2965-3200 lbs), varies by model and options.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2520 mm (99.2 in)
Standard Tire Size:
195/70R14 or 205/60R15
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x130 mm
Crash Test Results:
NHTSA and IIHS crash test data from this era is limited and not directly comparable to modern standards. The manual focuses on mechanical safety systems.
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid drums. Optional front ventilated discs and rear ventilated discs on performance variants (e.g., Turbo).
Steering Control:
Power-assisted rack and pinion steering.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger compartment and crumple zones as per design of the period.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player (optional).
Gauges:
Comprehensive analog gauge cluster including tachometer, speedometer, fuel level, coolant temperature, oil pressure, and voltmeter.
Cruise Control:
Optional electronic cruise control system.
Connectivity:
N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB).
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km).
Fuel Filter:
Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil:
API SG/SF SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant:
50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Common Problems:
Rust in common areas (wheel wells, rocker panels), aging fuel injection components (fuel pump, injectors), worn suspension bushings, electrical connector corrosion, seal leaks (oil pan, valve cover, rear main).
Heritage:
Datsun, later known as Nissan, built its reputation on reliable and innovative vehicles, culminating in performance icons like the Z-car series.
Evolution From 240Z:
The S130 280ZX evolved from the original S30 240Z/260Z/280Z, becoming larger, more luxurious, and incorporating more technology, while maintaining the rear-wheel-drive, inline-6 formula.
Production Years:
S130 Series produced from 1978 to 1983.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Japan.
