In 1978 Nissan released a Black Pearl Edition 280Z, as a test market device to determine if the color black should be added to the Z-car model line colors. Some of these Black Pearl Editions came with a Sports Appearance Package which included the following options:

• Black Pearl Metallic Paint Paint Code 638
• Red & Silver Accent Stripes On:
  • Body-side
  • Hood
  • Hatch
  • Headlight Scoops
• Rear Window Sunshade
• Dual Racing Mirrors

This was offered for a price tag of $8,287.00.

We know what at least one Black Pearl Edition with the "SPORTS APPEARANCE PACKAGE" was sent to each Authorized Datsun Dealer in 1978, with the larger volume Dealers receiving more than one. Thus at least 850 Black Pearl Editions with the SAP were produced and most likely something closer to 1200 or 1500 of them. We have no offical production figures for the number of cars which received only the Black Pearl Metalic Paint (but not, the Sports Appearance Package.)

The cars were so successful that in 1979 with the introduction of the 280ZX Datsun featured their all Black 280ZX's in their "Black Gold" ad.'s.