newb question about v8 conversion

[Guest umm]

Do v8 conversions mess up the handling of zcars at all? I'm considering a JTR conversion for a 1975 280z. Thanks in advance.

[Tim240z]

Do a search on handling. There was a post several months ago (very detailed) which should answer all your questions. Short answer is:

If done correctly, the handling turns out much better...such is the concensus.

Tim

[Guest 240Z_72]

I wonder about that too. I see it's proven that you can end up weighing less by using aluminum heads, water pump, battery relocation, etc. One thing I don't remember reading is how/if having the wider v8 block makes a difference as opposed to having all the weight in a nice line. As an example, pick up a 10lb. weight and hold it to your chest and turn at the waist from side to side...easy. Now hold your arm out to the side, away from your body...much harder. Surely there is some of that effect going on?

[Guest umm]

Thanks a lot guys. I just got a 75 280z and a 77 2+2 as a parts car. The 75 is really clean and actually runs well aside from burning a little oil. My dad originaly bought the two with the idea he was going to do a restoration. He got too busy and gave them to me. My lucky day.

So I'm looking at it and thinking JTR.

[Cruez]

I would say that the handling should be better than the I-6,...just because the engine is shorter (lengthwise), therefore it will have less rotating mass while trying to make a turn...(like the gyroscope effect)