1978 Datsun 280Z

A highly original, unrestored example
1 of just 1,500 Black Pearl Editions produced for the U.S.
Just 61,282 miles showing on the odometer
A former resident of the noted Mike and Debbie Rogers Datsun Collection
Factory optioned with the Sports Appearance Package, which included the wheels, dual racing mirrors, and rear window louvers

Brought to market for the 1975 model year, the Datsun 280Z represented the final evolution of Nissans groundbreaking S30-series Z car, building upon the immense success of the original 240Z introduced in 1969. Developed to meet increasingly stringent U.S. emissions regulations without sacrificing performance, the 280Z featured Bosch-derived electronic fuel injection feeding its 2.8-litre L28 inline-six, improving drivability, reliability, and everyday usability. Refinements throughout its production included a strengthened chassis, updated interior appointments, improved climate controls, and revised suspension tuning, allowing the 280Z to remain one of the worlds most desirable affordable sports cars while preserving the balanced handling and timeless styling that made the Z an international success.

To commemorate the final year of the original S30 before the arrival of the 280ZX, Datsun introduced the limited-production Black Pearl Edition for 1978. The first factory-black Z ever offered, it served as a market test for the striking color and featured distinctive red and silver graphics, dual sport mirrors, rear window louvers, and the Sports Appearance Package. Produced in limited numbers, the Black Pearl has become one of the most sought-after and recognizable variants of the original Z, prized for its rarity, unique styling, and place in Datsun history.

A highly original, unrestored example presented with its original paint, this 1978 Datsun Black Pearl Edition 280Z is 1 of just 1,500 special editions produced for the U.S. market. Factory optioned with the Sports Appearance Package, it includes special wheels, dual racing mirrors, and rear window louvers. A former resident of the noted Mike and Debbie Rogers Datsun Collection, this Black Pearl has traveled less than 62,000 miles from new.

Under the hood lies a fuel-injected 2.8-litre inline six-cylinder engine thats backed by a thrilling five-speed manual gearbox. Features include an AM/FM stereo system, power antenna, tinted glass, electric rear window defroster, and a center console. Mechanical servicing in December of 2025 included the rear brakes, replacing the master cylinder and rear wheel cylinders, mounting new Falken tires, installing new spark plugs, performing an oil change, and professionally dry ice cleaning of the underside.

Combining remarkable originality and one-year-only exclusivity, this Black Pearl Edition stands as one of the most celebrated examples of Datsuns legendary first-generation Z.