Without a doubt, the classic Datsun Z car is one of the most beautiful and capable GT cars of all time. If you haven’t owned one, they are a fun and affordable sports car. Everyone that has sold theirs seems to regret parting ways after the fact. This wild build by ADV.1 wheels is motivated by just such a story.
Jordan Swerdloff, President of ADV.1, takes us behind the scenes into their workshop in a May 18 press release. What we see are the final stages of building the ultimate 1978 Datsun 280Z. While the original straight six had decent power, they took the path less traveled and sourced the twin turbo driveline of a late model Toyota Supra. A giant single turbo replaced the small factory twins, but the six-speed manual transmission would not be strong enough for their needs. In its place lies a bulletproof Ford C4 automatic with a loose torque converter. It allows the 825 hp and 600 lb-ft of torque to reach the forged ADV.1 wheels through a custom 5-lug conversion.
The interior sports a full cage with AutoMeter gauges and a B&M ratchet shifter. Out back is a fuel cell and one of the largest bottles of Nitrous Oxide we have seen. Jordan says the system is plumbed for a 250 hp shot, but he is hesitant to use it. With the price of Supra engines still among the most expensive in the aftermarket, his apprehension is justifiable. Stay tuned to Autofluence to see what it looks like on the street.
