Nissan 280ZX S130
The Z-car's evolution from a raw sports car to a refined grand tourer.
- Power
- 135 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 9.1 s
- Top speed
- 121 mph
- Est. value
- $10k–$33k
About the Nissan 280ZX S130
The S130-generation 280ZX marked a significant shift for Nissan's Z-car, prioritising luxury and grand-touring comfort over the lightweight agility of its S30 predecessor. While it retained the L28E inline-six engine, the chassis was entirely new, featuring a more compliant suspension and a significantly quieter, better-appointed cabin. It was an immediate commercial success, winning MotorTrend's Import Car of the Year in 1979. Today, it is valued by collectors as a more usable, comfortable classic that still retains the iconic long-nose, short-deck silhouette.
Nissan 280ZX S130 specs
The Nissan 280ZX S130 produces 135 bhp (101 kW) and 195 Nm (144 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 9.1 seconds and has a top speed of 121 mph (195 km/h).
| Make | Nissan |
|---|---|
| Model | 280ZX |
| Generation | S130 |
| Trim | 2.8 |
| Years | 1978–1983 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Japan |
| Original price | About $9,800 when new |
| Engine | 2.8-litre inline-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,753 cc (2.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 135 bhp (101 kW) at 5,200 rpm |
| Torque | 195 Nm (144 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,400 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 9.1 s |
| Top speed | 121 mph (195 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,281 kg (2,824 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 105 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Nissan 280ZX S130 worth?
A typical Nissan 280ZX S130 is estimated to be worth $9,500 – $33,000 (about £7,100 – £25,000).
Its original price when new was about $9,800.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Nissan 280ZX S130 rarity in CarSpot
The Nissan 280ZX S130 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 19 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Nissan 280ZX S130 fun facts
- The 280ZX was the first Z-car to feature the 'by Nissan' subscript on its badging, beginning the global transition away from the Datsun brand name.
- It featured a unique dual fuel gauge where the second needle provided a magnified view of the final quarter-tank to prevent drivers from running out of petrol.
- Despite being heavier than the 240Z, the 280ZX was more aerodynamic, achieving a drag coefficient of 0.38 compared to the original's 0.46.