OVERVIEW
- Purchased in the UAE in 2015 as a stock Datsun 280Z with an L28 engine and modernized over several years.
- This Z is now powered by a Nissan RB25DET NEO, a 2.5-liter inline 6-cylinder engine with matching transmission.
- The Z has undergone extensive mechanical and cosmetic modification including an engine swap, transmission, a full body repaint, interior replacement and much more.
- As featured in Car Culture in 2019 carculture.ae/the-datsun-from-kanzen-jeremys-280z/
OUTSIDE
- Built by a former partner of Kanzen Motorsports, a JDM specialist garage in Dubai.
- Fully repainted in Lamborghini Diablo Yellow accented by black fender flares, rear spoiler and a Skillard front bumper.
INSIDE
- Interior including the headliner, door and interior panels were fully retrimmed in black vinyl. Black carpeting was replaced throughout.
- Front seats re-upholstered in black vinyl with suede inserts.
- Speedhut GPS gauges (odometer, tachometer, temp, oil pressure, boost etc.) and a black suede Sparco steering wheel.
- Upgraded air conditioning system from Ampex DIP.
UNDER THE HOOD
- This Z is fitted with Nissan RB25DET NEO, a 2.5 liter inline 6-cylinder twin-cam fuel-injected engine.
- The engine was reportedly sourced in the UAE and rebuilt at Kanzen Motors in 2016.
- A new turbocharger was fitted in May 2021.
- A Tomei short shift kit and new single-plate clutch were also installed.
- Upgrades include a Mishimoto radiator, thermostat and electric fan.
UNDERNEATH
- During the restoration all rust was repaired (a common issue on S30 Datsuns) prior to the repaint. The underbody was also coated for protection.
- Chassis frame rails were reinforced to handle the additional power.
- Upgrades include Gecko springs and Techno Toy Tuning sway bars.
- 15-inch deep-dish watanabe rims all-around.
- Slotted and drilled discs in the front and drums in the rear.
- A new Airlift air suspension system was installed in May 2021.
GOOD TO KNOW
This Datsun 280Z has undergone an extensive restomod completed between 2018-2019. However, there are a few points including mechanical observations noted on the Inspection Report.
Mechanical
- A fan shroud is recommended especially if the car will be used in the summer in hot climates.
- Minor wear and tear on the left tie-rod end boot, steering boot, and tension rod.
- Minor oil leak on the rear main seal.
- Gas gauge is not working. Fuel tank level sensor needs replacement.
Recent maintenance & repairs following inspection report
- Repair of power steering reservoir leak.
- Replacement of upper and lower radiator hose.
- All fluid replacements (engine oil, brake fluid, clutch fluid, coolant, power steering).
Cosmetic & Other
- Roof paint has cracks from previous sunroof delete. This requires a roof repair and repaint to address.
- The dashboard has a plastic dash cap. The original underneath is cracked (a common fault with S30 Datsuns).
- Driver and passenger window weatherstripping need replacing.
- Air conditioner hoses need to be fitted to left and right side passenger vents. Only central stack vents are fitted at the moment.
- Note: Heater was deleted. No spare tire.
MODIFICATIONS
A recap of the some of the most important modifications:
Engine & Related
- Nissan RB25 NEO DET inline-six engine and transmission.
- New turbocharger and starter motor fitted in May 2021.
- Upgraded to Mishimoto radiator, thermostat, and electric fan.
- Fitted with an independent ECU, power steering, brake booster, and Tomei short shifter
Exterior
- Full repaint in Lamborghini Diablo Yellow with black fender flares, spoiler, Skillard front bumper and skid plate
- 15-inch Watanabe deep dish rims.
- Front headlights replaced with LED units, removable acrylic ZG-style headlight covers and new taillights.
Underneath:
- Suspension: Airlift air suspension fitted in May 2021, Gecko springs, Techno Toy Tuning front tower brace and sway bars.
- Fitted with a single muffler straight-pipe exhaust with catalytic converter delete.
Other:
- Upgraded air conditioning system from Ampex DIP.
VIDEOS
- WALK-AROUND
- INTERIOR
- ENGINE START – HOOD
- ENGINE START – BACK
- AIR-SUSPENSION TEST