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The 1978 280Z Black Pearl Edition

1978 Black Pearl Edition 280Z

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

General Information about the Black Pearl

Black Pearl Edition Window Sticker

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

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

At least one Black Pearl Edition with the "SPORTS APPEARANCE PACKAGE" was sent to each Authorized Datsun Dealer in 1978, with larger volume dealers receiving more. Thus, at least 850 Black Pearl Editions with the SAP were produced, and most likely closer to 1,200–1,500 units. There are no official production figures for the number of cars that received only the Black Pearl Metallic Paint without the Sports Appearance Package.

The cars were so successful that in 1979, with the introduction of the 280ZX, Datsun featured all-black 280ZXs in their "Black Gold" advertisements.

Sources Used