Historically, the only Datsun Z-cars we have cars about were the one jammed full of snotty small block or rumbling big block engines. We can now add another variation to that theme with the finding of this crazy ass car. The owner of this flat black machine took the stock engine out and replaced it with a Garrett GTP series gas turbine engine that while being totally awesome in virtually every sense, only makes 210hp. Despite the lack of obscene power, we still think that this car is damned cool.
The turbine is hooked to a reduction box, which is in turn attached to the factory five speed transmission, moving the power from front to back. Fuel economy, or lack thereof, is a wallet busting 20 gallons per hour. We do not know how far is has wandered from home, but we do know that the seller built it himself and has been cruising it around Maryland for some time.
The ad for the car is a good read to, so the seller obviously has a sense of humor, although anyone with a wild streak wide enough to jam a turbine into their project car has got to be fun to hang out with. As the seller laments, it is hard to be different these days, but this car is, “straight jacket short bus style different.” Like we said, the ad is a good read.
There is no heat, AC, or radio, but there is a FRIGGIN’ TURBINE, so if that’s a problem, move onto the next turbine powered car with working accessories. Unfortunately there is only one photo in the ad, because we’d like to see more of this car. From the sounds of it, the seller really knew what he was doing while putting it together so it is not some hilljack disaster. Heck, the guy even says in the ad that he’ll build you a turbine powered car, any turbine powered car, if you “stroke the check.”
Scroll down for the link to the RacingJunk ad!
Thanks to John Tearle for the tip!
RACING JUNK LINK: A TURBINE POWERED DATSUN 280ZX
Hmm, if only it had more horsepower.