Just for some background, I'm still in highschool and this car would be my second. I currently own an '84 firebird with a 305 v8.
I'm basically looking for a car to modify or fix for my high school senior project. I like my firebird, but im getting bored of it and while looking for another car, Z cars caught my eye. The car that I modify would be the car I take to college, so I decided on a 6 cylinder to attempt to get slightly better gas mileage than my gas guzzling v8. I love 84-89 300zx's, but they're too expensive for my budget, so I was thinking about a 240z-280zx.
While browsing craigslist, I came across a 280zx for $700. Heres its description:
"Datsun 280zx, Runs and Drives, stops but NEEDS BRAKES, Red, minor body work required, there is a dent in the hood that has been bondo'ed and the rear bumber is slightly tweaked, but not very much. Standard transimission(5-spd), I have the title in hand,"
I'm not sure how many miles are on it, I tried calling but he didnt answer at the time.
Basically what I need to know is what to expect from it. I'm not exactly sure what I'll do with it, maybe turbocharge it. I know how to do mechanical work on cars, and I can give body work a shot. So what usually goes wrong with these cars that I should check? How much power potential do the stock I6s have? I need to make something faster than my firebird (don't worry, its slow, its an 84 with a 305....). The lighter car should help.
Thank you for reading this somewhat length post, and I'll be awaiting the replies!