Well I found this automatic 1990 300zx n/a with 132,000 miles for 2500$. The exterior is in very good condition as well as the interior with an exception of a large rip on the drivers seat. I didnt take it for that long of a test drive but from what I could tell the engine was strong. BUT.. the engine made this odd ticking/chattering noise. It wasnt too loud but it was loud enough to be noticed. The owner said it was just part of the usually 300zx engine noise. Other than the noise the transmission was a bit funky.. when I put it into drive it bit well and took off well but when it shifted from 1st to 2nd it seemed to rev kinda high and then shift. Also, it doesnt shift into overdrive.

Because I have never owned a z32 before I am not sure if these are usuall things in these cars. If its not usual then what is wrong and how much money would it take to fix??

Thanks for the help, Adam.

 

sounds like the shifting issue may take a bit of money. a ticking noise could be tons of things. from insignificant to very indicative of a short life ahead for that engine.

at any rate, the a/t is the least valuable, and the least fun Z. hold out for a better model IMHO

 

don't do it!

Transmission problems suck! who knows what the engine ping/knock/tick could be. At least take it to a mechanic and get a diagnosis before you buy.

 

z32 engines all make a slight clicky noise. it's the coil packs firing. it's not a loud noise though.

the tranny on the other hand is probably on the way out. if it were me, i would keep looking. you'll spend as much to fix the tranny as you spent on the whole car.

 

NO u can find a good rebuild non turbo transmission for less that 800 dollars installed... if u go to a respectable transmission shop... dont let them fool you a 1990 300zx for 2500 is still a deal... u can always TwinTurbo it later of 6000 dollars more.... but to be honest listen up if u dont have the extra money to fix the parts going out forget about it ....

 

don't be encouraging the idea of a turbo swap. it is quite a non-practical path to take.