This beautiful blue 1976 Datsun 280Z represents the best of the Z-cars that totally transformed the automotive landscape in the 1970s. As the latest models prove, the Z will always have a place in our garages and in our hearts, and this early 280Z is a fantastic way to enjoy the ride.Looking at the shape, it's clear that there's a little bit of E-Type Jag in there, maybe a hint of Corvette, and plenty of MG, too. Fast, light, agile, and affordable, even today, this Z is a delight. It has also been properly maintained for its entire life, with a well-done repaint and well-preserved trim that gives the 40-year-old sports car a brand new look. Cars like this were often put away as sunny-day drivers, and as a result, this one shows none of the bumps and bruises of the daily grind and it certainly appears that it lived most of its life someplace warm and dry. Chrome was going out of fashion in 1976, but there are still a few bright pieces, including both bumpers and the stainless around the windows, all of which remains in very good shape. Even things like the rubber bumper overriders are supple and undamaged by UV rays, suggesting that this car has led a very sheltered existence. There are no stripes or other add-ons, letting the clean, sleek Z-car shape speak for itself, and that's what enthusiasts seem to appreciate.One of the Z-car's biggest successes is the interior, which is both sporting and functional. The black bucket seats were designed by guys who knew the car would be used to its potential, so they have thicker bolsters than most, and the pleated upholstery looks quite racy. Of course, all of this remains in great condition, showing only very minor signs of use since the restoration. The dash is full of easy-to-read instruments, each housed in its own pod, including a row of auxiliary gauges in the center, a look that is still evident today in the latest Nissan GT-R. These cars were top-of-the-line machines by 1978, and this one comes with working factory A/C, a 4-speed manual, and an AM/FM/cassette stereo. That lovely wood-rimmed steering wheel warms up the otherwise monochromatic interior and keeps a vintage sports car vibe. There's a good-sized trunk area under the rear hatch, and the carpets show almost no wear or fading, suggesting they've been replaced not too long ago.The L28E 2.8 liter inline-six is a fantastic motor. Torquey, yet eager to rev, it was enlarged to better suit American driving tastes and keep the Z competitive with the likes of the Chevy Corvette. Rebuilt a few years ago by the original owner, it still has that same baritone wail that epitomizes big-horsepower inline-sixes, and because it's a Nissan, it's also reliable and smooth. The engine bay is as clean as the rest of the car, and that tangle of hoses is how the factory did it, but don't worry, it's all rebuilt and ready to go and maintenance is surprisingly easy. It's very clean underneath, showing proper care and maintenance and the rear half of the exhaust system is fairly recent. The 4-speed manual transmission shifts as it should, the suspension is supple yet athletic, and the brakes are surprisingly powerful thanks to its light weight. The only non-stock parts are those handsome 5-spoke alloy wheels, which carry 195/70/14 blackwall radials.Today, as when it was new, this 280Z is a whole lot of performance for the money. A nice combination of restored and solid original components, it's the Z you always wanted when you were a kid. Call today!