Godzilla Raceworks’ 1978 Datsun 280Z
This 1978 Datsun 280Z arrived at Godzilla Raceworks (GRW) as a rolling shell. The company was tasked to rebuilt the classic with more power and better handling. Two years of work resulted in an amazing 280Z.
In the engine bay GRW swapped a 5.3 L LSx V8 using Dirty Dingo conversion mounts. The motor features a Summit Racing 8712R1 camshaft (0.50-inch lift & 262/270 duration), LS7 hydraulic lifters, and Brian Tooley Racing trunnion upgrade. A FiTech 92 mm throttle body is mounted on a Fast LSXR short-runner. On the front is a Warr Performance AC compressor bracket and alternator kit.
The exhaust is routed through Hawk Performance longtube headers through custom 3-inch oval tubing and HKS Hi-Power muffler. A DNA Motoring 2-Row aluminum radiator with GRW’s dual Spal fan kit keeps the motor cool. Fuel is fed by a Walbro 255 lph external pump through Bosch EV6 440 cc injectors. A Holley Terminator X ECU and wiring harness controls the power plant.
GRW paired the V8 with a stronger drivetrain. Behind the motor is a Tremec Magnum F six-speed manual transmission supported by an Apex Engineered crossmember. From there power is transferred by GRW’s swap driveshaft to a Ford Explorer 8.8-inch rear end. The rear end features a limited-slip differential and 3.55 ratio.
The suspension received a set of BC Racing BR-series coilovers. GRW installed Apex Engineered front lower control arms and tension rods. There is also a ST Suspension front sway bar. The rear received an Apex Engineered Ford 8.8 rear crossmember kit.
GRW upgraded the car’s braking with Techno Toy Tuning’s big brake kit featuring four-piston calipers and 300 mm rotors. In the rear GRW installed a set of Nissan 370Z rear caliper and rotors. The braking system also received Stoptech SS braiding hoses and Wilwood adjustable proportioning valve.
The 280Z rides on XXR 527 17×8-inch wheels with Toyo R888R tires (245/40, 255/40). The body features a grill from Skillard, 240Z-style bumpers, and a set of APR carbon fiber sideview mirrors.
On the inside there are two leather Recaro seats. Between them are a Skillard center console. In front of them is a Vintage Dashes dashboard and Speedhut gauges with LunarLoox adapters. Rising out of the is a Momo Montecarlo steering wheel. A GRW Vintage Air Gen3 AC system and Killmat sound deadening helps the driver stay comfortable.
