S130 1980 280ZX 10th Anniversary Edition
In 1979, the first year of the 280ZX, Datsun released a special Limited Edition 280ZX-R model. This package consisted of silver mist metallic paint with a three-tone blue vinyl striping and a rubber rear deck spoiler.
The package added $399 to the base cost of the 280ZX. A total of 1,008 280ZX-Rs were built. There were no options available other than air conditioning, which cost an additional $635.
Otherwise, the cars were stripped — meaning no power options such as power windows or power locks. They came with manual steering, a 5-speed manual transmission, no rear wiper, deleted noise reduction materials, and an all-black interior.
280ZX-R Interior & Identification
Steel wheels were the standard with hubcaps.
One way to tell if your 280ZX is a true ZX-R is to remove the padding on the center console — usually, there is writing on the back side of the pad.
The Rear Wing
The rear wing installed on the 280ZX-R was made of molded rubber and was exactly the same as the wings used on the SCCA and IMSA winning 280ZX's. The wing is the reason the car exists, as Datsun had to produce a minimum of 1,000 production cars with the same options. It is said the wing will produce 370 lbs of downforce at speeds of 100 MPH. To keep the car stable, a front spoiler should be installed as well.
The wing was also available in the Datsun Competition Parts Catalog (part number 99996-R8000).
Included in the kit are heavy-duty rear hatch struts, instructions, and all mounting hardware.
The wing is designed for the 2-seater cars and will not fit the 2+2 body.
Window Sticker
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Sources Used
- Original Article by: Lee Cobb
- Console Image from: Curtis Wagner