Nelson’s Turbo Datsun 260Z
Taking a break from the Formula D coverage, we have Nelson Nance and his Datsun 260z. Nelson’s Z is pretty well known in the Atlanta area, and we have been wanting to feature the car for a year or so. But Nelson said it was never really ready until now, so we were finally granted some time to showcase his first love.
Old School Imports is a favorite among all car enthusiasts , because they were made in a time when no one believed in them, and no one took imports seriously. So the manufacturers went that extra mile to make sure these cars made a statement with design and performance. The cars went up against some of the most memorable American muscle cars and held their own and won over the hearts of enthusiasts in America. Much like American muscle cars the Import classics define the manufacturer, the Corolla 86 defined Toyota as a manufacturer that prides themselves on efficiency and quality. The classic RX cars defined Mazda as a company that will always push the envelope with design. The Z cars defined Nissan as a Asian company that can build a real sports car.
Photos By: Jon Davis – Joseph Dale
Nelson’s Z build started 5 years ago when he purchased the car off EBAY. Which turned out to be a huge mistake, because the car was in real bad shape when it arrived at his house. But Nelson was determined to make this a “perfect Z”. His plans were to build a reliable car that can put a smile on his face while driving.
Nelson’s love for the S30 chassis began 30yrs ago when he would ride with his dad in his. His father was a real lover of the S30 and had owned several when they were new. Nelson remembers the time he was able to take his father for a drive in his 30 years later, and will never forget the smile on his dads face.
The 260 is swapped with a L28et, the turbo setup has been upgraded with a t3/t4 turbo, front mount intercooler, and it is all managed by Megasquirt II. The transmission has also been swapped from a 280z, and the differential is from a Subaru STI.
Nelson says that his build is labeled as “new vintage” , he is the owner of a Mitsubishi Evo that he runs in the Auto X frequently. But he insist that if its not raining than he will be driving the Z as much as possible.
The suspension wheel setup consists of Tokico shocks/springs, Suspension techniques Polly bushings,4 piston calipers up front( Toyota). And a set of custom matte black Work Meister CRo1 15×9 front, 15×10 rear.
Nelson says that he is gonna work on getting the car to make a little more efficient power in the future, and may actually start doing some track events in the Z as soon as he gets the suspension set up a little better. Thanks for looking!
