1979 Datsun 280ZX

This 1979 Datsun 280ZX race car is said to have been built and campaigned by Frank Leary Racing under sponsorship by Peterson Tractor Co. The car wore a number of liveries from 1980 through 1982 and was driven in various IMSA Camel GT division and SCCA Trans Am series events at Laguna Seca, Sears Point, Portland International Raceway, and Charlotte Motor Speedway. Finished in white with a blue and yellow #43 livery, the car is powered by a replacement turbocharged 2.8-liter inline-six mated to a five-speed manual transmission and a Halibrand quick-change rear end. Additional equipment includes Hilborn fuel injection, 16″ BBS multi-piece wheels, a front air dam, a rear wing, a roll cage, a single racing seat, a fire suppression system, and a fuel cell. The car was reportedly acquired by the current owner from the original owner’s estate approximately 25 years ago and has remained in storage since. A diagnostic inspection and race preparation is recommended prior to use. This 280ZX race car is now offered at no reserve on dealer consignment in California with handwritten notes, historical photos, spare parts and bodywork, an extra set of four BBS wheels, and a bill of sale. The factory steel body was fitted with fiberglass panels including a vented hood, a front air dam, front and rear fenders, and door skins. Finished in white with a blue and yellow #43 livery, the exterior features headlight covers, plexiglass quarter and rear windows, hood pins, an external kill switch, and a rear wing. The windshield is cracked, and scratches, chips, and other imperfections in the finish are viewable in the gallery below. Gold-finished 16″ BBS center-lock wheels feature polished lips and front turbofan covers, and they are mounted with an older set of Goodyear Eagle racing slicks. Sway bars are installed at the front and rear, and stopping power is provided by four-wheel ventilated and slotted disc brakes. The cockpit features a single racing seat trimmed in black cloth and equipped with a Filler multi-point harness. A custom roll cage is fitted, and additional appointments include MSD ignition and rev-control modules, a fire suppression system, and a trunk-mounted fuel cell. The seat upholstery shows wear. The three-spoke steering wheel is mounted on a quick-release hub and fronts a Jones tachometer along with a number of auxiliary gauges, while vehicle control switches are located to the right of the driver. The car is not equipped with a speedometer or an odometer, and total mileage is unknown. The replacement 2.8-liter inline-six features dry-sump lubrication, a Hilborn fuel injection system, a single turbocharger, and an air-to-air intercooler. The cylinder head is said to have been ported by Bc Geralamy Co. of Rancho Cordova, California, and the consigning dealer recommends performing a diagnostic inspection prior to use. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission and a Halibrand quick-change rear end. Corrosion is visible on various underbody components. A selection of spare parts, including a set of four BBS wheels, bodywork, drivetrain components, and suspension and braking equipment, will accompany the sale. Historical photos and handwritten notes are also included in the sale. The car is not legal for road use and does not have a title. It is being sold on a bill of sale.