I'd be mighty excited if you decided to do a full,nut and bolt restoration of this Z car,including a complete rebuild of the powertrain. Engine rebuilds aren't all that hard,so don't let it intimidate you. Just take your time and do it right.
I also agree with that but I also would love to see the Datsun go through the same process as the Fiero, I've always loved this car and would like to see it getting take well care of
I LOVE LOVE LOVE the fact that you are respecting and honoring the original owner who loved the car so much. I’m so glad the legacy of this car with that kind of history is being passed down to you, who will do this car absolute justice!!!! YES!!!!!!!! Another multi-year restoration! I’ll be here all for it!
The way he treated it didn't seem much like respect or honor to me. seems like he bought a car, said he didn't want to see it abandoned and did just that. drove it without even changing 17 year old oil and then added to the considerable damage with 3 years of his own damage and didn't bother to prep it for a 3 year wait either by draining the fuel for example and he was apparently too cheap to even buy a car cover for it?! don't misunderstand me. He'll probably fix it and he can do what he wants with his property. but nothing he has done so far seems remotely like respect to an old car.
Very excited to be along for the ride. But as the Z's current custodian, PLEASE confirm you are updating the owner's log as you rebuild and run, thus maintaining the record that has been so meticulously kept - in whichever direction you decide to take it. Really looking forward to the next installment.
Agreed. If you're paying for a professional paint job this time around, pay for it to be blasted too. Way easier to fix all the rust if you do it right from the start
Yeah, if it was preserved as-is it will only continue to get worse. It needs to be brought back to as new as possible and a new notebook started to keep the tradition of care the original owner began alive.
Do what you want to do. If you dont go with what you want it will be much harder to find the motivation for working on it. Also I loved seeing how happy your dad was after seeing the car run.
That 3.5 years later transition hurt me. My buddy and I got a Datsun years ago and after the first year it sat in my yard for about 4 years. After I got back from a deployment I decided I couldn't let it sit through this summer untouched. I can't wait to see your datsun come back to life.
This is like a Christmas gift. There is something about your series that is calming. Whether this is a complete tear down and rebuild...or turning this into a Rat Rod of the finest kinds...Im excited to saddle up and watch. Your style and delivery is unique and polished. Better than any tv Ive watched!
One of the key factors in finishing a project is motivation. I think you'd be much more motivated if you were making the car how YOU want it instead of making it how it "should be". It doesn't have to be an ultimatum, maybe you can make it to your tastes while also preserving the retro vibe. I'm SOOOOOO hype for this series, you're my favorite car-content creator (and I watch a LOT of car videos).
I had the orange 240, the orange 260, the '78 Maroon 280, and the maroon 280ZX just like your Dad's all at the same time. I bought the 280 for $500 and had it running in about 15 minutes. Then I noticed in Hot Rod Mag where John's Cars in Dallas sold small block conversion kits for Z cars for about $500 and this kit was quality made and made the funnest car I've ever owned. Someone stole her. Congrats on yours!!
This video showed up randomly on my recommended, and after I finished it I went back and watched every episode of the Fiero series. I'm super excited for this series!
Hell yes, glad to finally see the 280Z story! Fantastic work as always, working in all sorts of different footage from different years is certainly a challenge. Really cool that you have the videos of your dad's old car as well, and seeing him drive this one was so great! Can't wait to see where this project goes, you should do it exactly how you want to!
So excited to see this one. My dad had a 240Z for many many years he was going to restore it and never got around to it and eventually sold it. If I can find one I'd love to buy it and restore it with him
Love the content man! My Dad is a retired mechanic and he and I watch your videos and he just talks and talks about how gifted you are at restoration and mechanically motivated. He's a legend here in our hometown and just brags on you. He loved the dedication and was blown away with your process on the Fiero. He kept us all fed growing up in the 80's working on Mazda, Honda, Datsun, Pontiac and GM. I showed him this new project today and he got excited. Good luck my friend. We will be watching!
Awesome to see your partner being so supportive and smiling when you get the car running. Having someone like that by your side can make all the difference. Excited to see you bring this thing back to life and to see you grow and work in your new work shop. Cheers Ron!
As someone who found your channel through the Fiero restoration series right when I ended up getting my own Fiero, I just want to thank you for bringing us along on these projects you and your family do. It really feels like you're there sometimes as a viewer, celebrating every little repair that works and the excitement you and everyone else in your videos feel. I'm so excited to see your plans for this car!
I have the same car. I bought it when I was 19 years old. It was last driven in 1996 and has been sitting in a garage since then, My kids showed an interest in the car so we got it running and made a list of things that need to be replaced. I had all the same issues as you did, Even the brake light staying on and a seized RF caliper. I pulled all the carpet and was surprised that its not as rusty as I thought. I'm looking forward to getting back to a daily driver and then hand it down to the kids. TY for sharing.
I used to have one just like that, it was a '77, the '77 & '78 were identical. I kept pretty good maintenance records like that too. I had the car for 7 years, put on about 77K miles. I bought it new for $7500, sold it for $5300 to a guy from work. I didn't even have to advertise the car for sale. Good lick with this one. I hope you restore it to "like new" condition.
I picked up a 1987 Mitsubishi Starion/ Chrysler conquest as a project after my best friend passed away to build in his honor since he had one that he unfortunately never finished. A week after his passing, his family gave me his car and asked me to build it how he would have. It’s been rough and there’s so many times where I lose motivation because the “to-do” list is so long but videos like this are honestly so inspirational. You’re genuinely one of the few things that keep me going!
Dude, I discovered your channel during lockdown with your Fiero restoration and it was the series that kept me the most hooked up during that time. You even made me want to buy a Fiero (and I still want to). All that to say that I'm just really excited for this new series! I really love your content, man. Keep it going 💪
I did a complete restoration of a 1978 280z for my dad as a gift about 15 years ago. Same exterior color as your Z with added center stripe and I had the seats re-covered to carry the stripe & exterior color scheme through the car. My Z had the 5 spoke wheels and they were refinished in the same gold/bronze color. To say I'm excited about this series is an understatement
no way. i watched your whole Fiero restoration series as it was released. now i have a 280zx im trying to bring back to life and i see your channel pop up again in my recommended. I'm so excited for this series!!
I myself have a 1977 280z and was stuck with the same dilemma. Keep it stock because it was a time capsule and that’s what “should” be done or do what I want to it. I went with the do whatever I want because it’s my car and that’s what I wanted. So excited to see you work on one! Good luck!
Love your narration, especially the warts and all aspects showing all the screw ups and how you progress through them to excellence. Nice one mate 🇺🇲🇬🇧❤️
This is super cool! I really hope we get to see a bit more of your dad joining you on this amazing project, he looked so excited! Thanks for all the content over the years and it’s always worth the wait, there’s no rush 🙂
I am excited, and I am mentally prepared for a long PROPER FULL restoration back to factory beautiful. The Fiero was because I had one, and got hooked but it was a roller coaster ride getting to the finish. I skipped the bike because I needed a little break from the investment of time, BUT I am back and ready and super pumped to see this video. Just what I needed when I needed it. Long story, long go for the full reno and lets see you do your great work!
It was awesome to see how excited your dad was when you got the car! I honestly feel like you should go forward with what kind of project that YOU want to do! So that way you wont get burnt out as bad because we all know how frustrating working on cars can be!
My first car was a 240Z that my grandpa bought and fixed up for me. He basically modified it into a race car, and man was it fun to drive! Dude, I miss that car!!!
I, for one, absolutely cannot wait to watch the journey! I loved the Fiero's resurrection, so I can only imagine how epic this will be as well... Thank you for sharing with us! Regards, John
I love your projects - I have tried to watch other TH-camrs do the same and it isn’t that they’re bad, but you’re different and in many ways make others feel like we could do the same thing. Plus your edits, intros are superb!! I agree with some of the comments, make what make you happy. Those are the projects that have that extra spark! Cannot wait for this new project 😊to begin and follow you on this journey
Ooh boy another car restoration series! Can't wait. Am actually in the boat since the beginning now--I only started watching Fiero restoration in 2023, where it's all finished and uploaded!
My vote is do a restoration and the mods you want, and give it to your dad. You’ve got your fun car in the Fiero… your dad’s eyes lit up when he got out of that thing.
c’mon algorithm go! A Fingerprints upload means everyone MUST watch! Love the music, love the humor; but most of all… your journey! Also LOVE we finally get to see the entire family show up to help out!
I would say we’d love to see it go back to full glory! In all honesty this car deserves it 😄 Plus we all love the detail you put into the fiero. It was a pleasure to watch, and always brightened our days whenever we’ve seen a video come through. You even got me entangled with the bike series and I wasn’t a bike guy before this! I’m sure we will love binging another series that is basically like the fiero, since you’re an awesome storyteller. ✌🏻
I'm sending so much encouragement your way for this one! The 280Z is one of my all-time favorites; and I remember you just teasing this one towards the end of the motorcycle build. This is another one of those projects (like the Fiero) that I'd take on myself if I had the space and the tools.
Between this and the fiero, you're lighting that spark in me to finally get to my 86 bronco 2 that's been sitting since I graduated high-school almost 7 years ago. Can't wait to see what you do with this thing!
I am so freaking excited for this!! Happy to see you back again with a project! I love your videos and the passion that you have for the things you do. And I think you should do the car exactly how YOU want it to be. I promise you, it is going to be awesome!! 😍
Alright, I'm gonna put in my 2 cents on this one. I'm a Datsun fan. Earlier this year, I got a '75 B210 on a whim. Now, I'm going to get my dream car (an S30 Z) for a smoking deal. I agree the journal is a fantastic addition to the car, makes it worth that price tag. It is cool, but that Z doesn't seem to have much left in her. The rust is a big issue and I'm sure KFVintage JDM will become your best friend for the rust repair soon enough. I think that this would be a great opportunity to overhaul the powertrain and revive the car. It could take a VERY long time to get everything right, but that account journal makes me want to give that Z a second lease on life, let it relive the best part of its existence. It's a lot of work, but it can be so rewarding for you. I wouldn't advise an LS swap, but it is your car. In the Z I plan on getting, the L28 is a fine engine and will do nicely. I'm in AZ and look forward to running in to you one day as a fellow Z owner. "Drive a Datsun, then decide."
Definitely do what you want to do! Enjoy it when it's fully done up with all the trimmings you want. Especially with it being a multi year series, I think you being really satisfied will keep you motivated and enthusiastic about YOUR OWN project and not just a factory reset. Regardless I'm tuning in for the alternate timelines and reverse Ronald (Dlanor) lore.
Looks like this will be another fantastic series to follow. Your story-based narratives pull me in every time. I found myself back in the 80s, riding shotgun in the 280. I would love to see you restore this car your way. Either way, I know it will be enjoyable to watch. Also, looking forward to seeing how the garage turns out. Thank you for allowing us to come along on your journey Ronald!
Ronald - my kids and I are big fans, we really got hooked thanks to your series on the fiero restoration. We are so excited to see what you do here! Thanks for producing such great, in depth, honest content.
I'm so excited to see this car transform. Loved the Fiero restore, but arrived at that party after it was all done. I'm ready to wait anxiously for each new episode now!
I was along in the beginning of the fiero and I will be here in the beginning for this one too! I’m so excited for another project and can’t wait to see the progress. We will support whatever decision you pick. ❤
It’s cool that you can have these memories all recorded and even your dad has some with his Z. Hopefully can make more together while you work on it. That’s something I can never have. Best of luck with the build and do whatever you want. We’ll watch👌
I love this! I am admittedly big Z fanboy and I'm excited about this series! I personally would love seeing a restomod, nothing too crazy, just improving brakes, cooling, suspension and engine rebuild with maybe a few trinkets to make it up to par with modern standards and boom, perfect car. But honestly just do what you want to do with the car man, it is you that have to work on it and if you're not 100% into what you're doing it might be a struggle to stay motivated. Anyway, looking forward to the rest of these! :D
18:09 ahh that face of utter tiredness and just not caring anymore even after succeeding is something i understand all too well. awesome vid man im here to support you in anything you do just make sure you enjoy it too, keep it up
I came into the Fiero build in the middle, but now you’re doing one of my favorite cars and I’m here from the start 🤩 I’m beyond excited to see her come back to life!
Congratulations on your next project. You did an amazing job with the Fiero and you will with this. The fact that your dad is excited about this project must make it even that more special. Looking forward to this build. You always are so methodical with your builds which I appreciate so much. I glad you share all of it. Keep up the good work man 👍
Now that was a nice early Christmas present! I didn't realize this was a Ronald Finger Production until I started the video. And then it was just so much better than a regular restoration video! Super cool to also get a bonus glimpse of the Interceptor 500 at the end of the video. Awesome. I think you might just have given me the motivation to dig into my KLR to check the valve clearance. Looking forward to the next video.
I remember when I was a kid there used to be a yellow 280Z parked around my neighborhood for years. I would always admire it's beauty every time we drove by it. Then it disappeared and I haven't seen it ever since 😢
Wow - what a blast from the past. My wasbund had one of these in high school (brand new in 1979). Same color, same wheels, same interior. Even had the same louvers in the back.
I'm so happy that you're working on this car I did a full engine rebuild on my 76 Z without knowing anything about cars and you were a part of the reason for that, seeing you restore that Fiero showed that you just need to put the time into making it nice! I wish you lots of luck on this project!
So happy you're back. One of my favorite channels. For the car-remember, what makes these cars so awesome and why many people love them is the customization. People do some AWESOME builds with these like race cars and daily drivers...do the build you want. I'm sure the original owner would want it to be driven and enjoyed.
Another great vid man! much love from the UK. Honsestly I think you should always do what you want, otherwise you won't be as happy as you would be in the long run. So 100% make the car - and by extension this series how you want it, not how you think it should be or what anyone else would want, do it for you. Already looking forward to watch along this journey with you!
I remember it was about 2018, I got really really sick for about a week and was stuck in bed, and while I was fading in and out of consciousness TH-cam decided that I would be really interested in seeing this series of videos about some guy restoring a fiero. Well it turns out that TH-cam was right, and I ended up watching that series right to the end. At the end of last year, my son was born and every weekend I try to show him a video of someone working with his hands, so for the past while we've been watching an episode every weekend from your hero videos. I'm looking forward to continuing to watch your other videos with him.
Having a new project by yours upcoming is the best imaginable christmas present! Such a cool car! fits perfectly in the collection ;-) Looking forward to see the journey!
I am jealous. SO jealous.... I had a 77 that I wrecked, then sold for more than I originally paid, then have had a few others throughout the years. But have got to admit, I LOVE these cars and my friend, I do hope you restore it. It doesn't have to be bone stock, make it yours, but just make it live and breathe again!!!!!
I'm so excited for this one!! Yaaaay! Do not care if it takes multiple years, you know we'll be here for every bit of it! I'm all for a full resto on this baby.
Whichever choice u pick is gonna be a good one. Im really looking forward to watching the story of this car continue thanks to your work. I absolutely fell in love with the Fiero series and I absolutely know Im gonna love this since I not only prefer older cars but japanese cars as well. Whatever you choose to make, we will watch, because it's interesting in so many ways. You teach us what to do, what not to do and you add that emotional spice to it, which makes us want to see more. Thank you for making these.
Wow, good luck with this new project! I actually bought in June 2018 a car from 1978 myself, a Triumph Dolomite Sprint that sat for 30 years with the engine dismantled. I put a lot of work into it, and it's my daily since December 2019. Looking forward to seeing the progress :)
I usually do not comment on youtube, however i just wanted to say that im very thankful to youtube to have had introduced me to your videos. Thank you for your wonderful videos. Cant wait for your next video and this restoration should be a perfect one. Cheers all the way from Saudi Arabia.
Just found this film on my recommended tab and it's one of my favourite video's I've ever watched, definitely going to be sticking around and excited to follow the journey of the Z
Even with the garage still not “z ready” you still have tons of time. The work on the frame and body are definitely where you’ll have to start. After that’s done I’m sure you’ll know where you want to take the project. Good luck! I’ll be along for the ride. ☺️
I'd help you out free of charge in my free time if you were in AZ. I am a collision tech. working in Phoenix. The unibody components and the rust patching should be a priority. God forbid there is an accident that poor car would sadly crumble and probably wouldn't keep you safe either.
I’ve always been a fan your channel but now I’m extra excited. I’ve loved the Z car since I was in highschool. I had a 1975 280Z in my teenage-early 20 years. I’m 55 now and I have a 1972 240Z. Such beautiful cars. Thank you 🙏 for saving this one.
Great find of a Z car! I don't understand why you don't have over a million subscribers yet. You put so much time and thought into producing quality content. The pride you have in this shows by not only how you produce your videos but also just the sheer attention to detail as you work on these cars. Great job! I'll be watching along on this one like I did with the Fiero. Merry Christmas to you and your family from Alabama.
As far as this taking a long time. For three years the anticipation and the dopamine rush that came from every video on the fiero gave me many a necessary distraction especially during some of the nastier days of the pandemic. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the 280z
I can't even begin to express how HAPPY i am The Fiero series was one of my favorite series if not my favorite series ever, and now we're getting a new series with an actual LEYEND of a car.. man i'm so happy and proud of you. I'll definetly will be watching
I agree with everyone else. Make it the car you want to drive. It’s your car now, and you should continue it’s story rather than trying to preserve its past. Cannot wait to see how it turns out! I followed the fiery project from the first video and always got so excited whenever you uploaded; I’m sure it will be the same for this car too
Either way you go with the repairs, someone will have something to say. I really enjoy watching the repairs and upgrades. I say do what you like and we will be along for the ride either way. I know it's going to be cool!
Hope you guys are as excited for this new series as I am :)
Definitely
Looks incredible! Can't wait to see the final product
Oh yeah!!!
well you took your time already so yes stop yapping get to work hahahaa greetings from the netherlands :))
I'd be mighty excited if you decided to do a full,nut and bolt restoration of this Z car,including a complete rebuild of the powertrain. Engine rebuilds aren't all that hard,so don't let it intimidate you. Just take your time and do it right.
We would rather watch something you want to make than something you think we want to see if that makes sense… can’t wait for the update
I agree with this 💯. It's always better content when it's a passion project rather than "another day at the office."
Yes definitely!
Completely agree. We'd get a much better video when one actually wants to make the video
I also agree with that but I also would love to see the Datsun go through the same process as the Fiero, I've always loved this car and would like to see it getting take well care of
I had a 240Z! Great car…wish I still had it!😎😊
I LOVE LOVE LOVE the fact that you are respecting and honoring the original owner who loved the car so much. I’m so glad the legacy of this car with that kind of history is being passed down to you, who will do this car absolute justice!!!! YES!!!!!!!! Another multi-year restoration! I’ll be here all for it!
The way he treated it didn't seem much like respect or honor to me. seems like he bought a car, said he didn't want to see it abandoned and did just that. drove it without even changing 17 year old oil and then added to the considerable damage with 3 years of his own damage and didn't bother to prep it for a 3 year wait either by draining the fuel for example and he was apparently too cheap to even buy a car cover for it?!
don't misunderstand me. He'll probably fix it and he can do what he wants with his property. but nothing he has done so far seems remotely like respect to an old car.
Very excited to be along for the ride.
But as the Z's current custodian, PLEASE confirm you are updating the owner's log as you rebuild and run, thus maintaining the record that has been so meticulously kept - in whichever direction you decide to take it. Really looking forward to the next installment.
Do a full resto on it. She really deserves it, as does your dad.
Agreed. If you're paying for a professional paint job this time around, pay for it to be blasted too. Way easier to fix all the rust if you do it right from the start
Do right by the car, your dad, and future owners. Otherwise, sell it to someone who will.
Yeah, go all out. If it was super-rare I could see doing minimal restoration but I would love this car looking factory fresh.
ALL OF THIS
Yeah, if it was preserved as-is it will only continue to get worse. It needs to be brought back to as new as possible and a new notebook started to keep the tradition of care the original owner began alive.
Do what you want to do. If you dont go with what you want it will be much harder to find the motivation for working on it. Also I loved seeing how happy your dad was after seeing the car run.
Was that a Honda interceptor ??
That 3.5 years later transition hurt me. My buddy and I got a Datsun years ago and after the first year it sat in my yard for about 4 years. After I got back from a deployment I decided I couldn't let it sit through this summer untouched. I can't wait to see your datsun come back to life.
Priceless moments with papa, 🍻cheers to all the fathers that spend time with their sons fixing stuff. This is so beautiful!
This is like a Christmas gift. There is something about your series that is calming. Whether this is a complete tear down and rebuild...or turning this into a Rat Rod of the finest kinds...Im excited to saddle up and watch. Your style and delivery is unique and polished. Better than any tv Ive watched!
100% right. You get the realism, emotion and humor off a single man production, but the quality and production of a big show.
One of the key factors in finishing a project is motivation. I think you'd be much more motivated if you were making the car how YOU want it instead of making it how it "should be". It doesn't have to be an ultimatum, maybe you can make it to your tastes while also preserving the retro vibe. I'm SOOOOOO hype for this series, you're my favorite car-content creator (and I watch a LOT of car videos).
I had the orange 240, the orange 260, the '78 Maroon 280, and the maroon 280ZX just like your Dad's all at the same time. I bought the 280 for $500 and had it running in about 15 minutes. Then I noticed in Hot Rod Mag where John's Cars in Dallas sold small block conversion kits for Z cars for about $500 and this kit was quality made and made the funnest car I've ever owned. Someone stole her.
Congrats on yours!!
This video showed up randomly on my recommended, and after I finished it I went back and watched every episode of the Fiero series. I'm super excited for this series!
Hell yes, glad to finally see the 280Z story! Fantastic work as always, working in all sorts of different footage from different years is certainly a challenge. Really cool that you have the videos of your dad's old car as well, and seeing him drive this one was so great! Can't wait to see where this project goes, you should do it exactly how you want to!
Holy fkin ball washers batman! Ronald this guy wants to sit in your lap
So excited to see this one. My dad had a 240Z for many many years he was going to restore it and never got around to it and eventually sold it. If I can find one I'd love to buy it and restore it with him
Love the content man! My Dad is a retired mechanic and he and I watch your videos and he just talks and talks about how gifted you are at restoration and mechanically motivated. He's a legend here in our hometown and just brags on you. He loved the dedication and was blown away with your process on the Fiero. He kept us all fed growing up in the 80's working on Mazda, Honda, Datsun, Pontiac and GM. I showed him this new project today and he got excited. Good luck my friend. We will be watching!
Awesome to see your partner being so supportive and smiling when you get the car running. Having someone like that by your side can make all the difference. Excited to see you bring this thing back to life and to see you grow and work in your new work shop. Cheers Ron!
I can second that. I cried when my wife cheered when i finally got my corvette running. She’s been a huge support and it makes me so happy.
also congratulations Ronnie! 16:51 I can't wait to follow along with this series.
As someone who found your channel through the Fiero restoration series right when I ended up getting my own Fiero, I just want to thank you for bringing us along on these projects you and your family do. It really feels like you're there sometimes as a viewer, celebrating every little repair that works and the excitement you and everyone else in your videos feel. I'm so excited to see your plans for this car!
I found the channel from a Fiero search and then he mentioned Project Binky and I watched all of that too
I have the same car. I bought it when I was 19 years old. It was last driven in 1996 and has been sitting in a garage since then, My kids showed an interest in the car so we got it running and made a list of things that need to be replaced. I had all the same issues as you did, Even the brake light staying on and a seized RF caliper. I pulled all the carpet and was surprised that its not as rusty as I thought. I'm looking forward to getting back to a daily driver and then hand it down to the kids. TY for sharing.
I used to have one just like that, it was a '77, the '77 & '78 were identical. I kept pretty good maintenance records like that too. I had the car for 7 years, put on about 77K miles. I bought it new for $7500, sold it for $5300 to a guy from work. I didn't even have to advertise the car for sale. Good lick with this one. I hope you restore it to "like new" condition.
I picked up a 1987 Mitsubishi Starion/ Chrysler conquest as a project after my best friend passed away to build in his honor since he had one that he unfortunately never finished.
A week after his passing, his family gave me his car and asked me to build it how he would have.
It’s been rough and there’s so many times where I lose motivation because the “to-do” list is so long but videos like this are honestly so inspirational. You’re genuinely one of the few things that keep me going!
You can do it bro. Personally, I don't how tough it'll be, but I'm willing to bet money that the end result will be worth it.
Whatever you decide to do, deal with the rust, it's always fascinating seeing the metal work.
Dude, I discovered your channel during lockdown with your Fiero restoration and it was the series that kept me the most hooked up during that time. You even made me want to buy a Fiero (and I still want to).
All that to say that I'm just really excited for this new series!
I really love your content, man. Keep it going 💪
I like the idea of restoring it.
I like the idea of resto-modding it.
Love this channel.
Ronnie, this was an early Christmas present! It's so great to see how stoked your Dad is for this too. Good Luck!!
this channel is incredibly wholesome
When I lived in Texas for a short time I remembered how kind people were so it’s no surprise your mailman helped. Very cool!
I did a complete restoration of a 1978 280z for my dad as a gift about 15 years ago. Same exterior color as your Z with added center stripe and I had the seats re-covered to carry the stripe & exterior color scheme through the car. My Z had the 5 spoke wheels and they were refinished in the same gold/bronze color. To say I'm excited about this series is an understatement
no way. i watched your whole Fiero restoration series as it was released. now i have a 280zx im trying to bring back to life and i see your channel pop up again in my recommended. I'm so excited for this series!!
I myself have a 1977 280z and was stuck with the same dilemma. Keep it stock because it was a time capsule and that’s what “should” be done or do what I want to it. I went with the do whatever I want because it’s my car and that’s what I wanted. So excited to see you work on one! Good luck!
Cars are meant to be used and driven. No point in not using them and just letting them die.
Love your narration, especially the warts and all aspects showing all the screw ups and how you progress through them to excellence.
Nice one mate 🇺🇲🇬🇧❤️
This is super cool! I really hope we get to see a bit more of your dad joining you on this amazing project, he looked so excited! Thanks for all the content over the years and it’s always worth the wait, there’s no rush 🙂
Congrats Finger family! I also have a soft spot for these. One of the first cars me and the old man worked on.
Full blown resto!
Dont let this baby fade away,so much nostalgia and character!
that and they're worth a ton of money right now@!
This is going to be such a sick series! Keep doing what you do
I am excited, and I am mentally prepared for a long PROPER FULL restoration back to factory beautiful. The Fiero was because I had one, and got hooked but it was a roller coaster ride getting to the finish. I skipped the bike because I needed a little break from the investment of time, BUT I am back and ready and super pumped to see this video. Just what I needed when I needed it. Long story, long go for the full reno and lets see you do your great work!
It was awesome to see how excited your dad was when you got the car! I honestly feel like you should go forward with what kind of project that YOU want to do! So that way you wont get burnt out as bad because we all know how frustrating working on cars can be!
My first car was a 240Z that my grandpa bought and fixed up for me. He basically modified it into a race car, and man was it fun to drive! Dude, I miss that car!!!
I, for one, absolutely cannot wait to watch the journey! I loved the Fiero's resurrection, so I can only imagine how epic this will be as well...
Thank you for sharing with us!
Regards,
John
You just made my year. I am so stoked you're working on another car. Merry Christmas to us.
I love your projects - I have tried to watch other TH-camrs do the same and it isn’t that they’re bad, but you’re different and in many ways make others feel like we could do the same thing. Plus your edits, intros are superb!! I agree with some of the comments, make what make you happy. Those are the projects that have that extra spark! Cannot wait for this new project 😊to begin and follow you on this journey
Ooh boy another car restoration series! Can't wait. Am actually in the boat since the beginning now--I only started watching Fiero restoration in 2023, where it's all finished and uploaded!
Not even 5 mins in and I'm already hit with the feels. Can't wait for this series!
My vote is do a restoration and the mods you want, and give it to your dad. You’ve got your fun car in the Fiero… your dad’s eyes lit up when he got out of that thing.
Love how genuine you are in your videos! Can't wait to watch the progress unfold 🙂
c’mon algorithm go! A Fingerprints upload means everyone MUST watch! Love the music, love the humor; but most of all… your journey!
Also LOVE we finally get to see the entire family show up to help out!
I would say we’d love to see it go back to full glory! In all honesty this car deserves it 😄 Plus we all love the detail you put into the fiero. It was a pleasure to watch, and always brightened our days whenever we’ve seen a video come through. You even got me entangled with the bike series and I wasn’t a bike guy before this! I’m sure we will love binging another series that is basically like the fiero, since you’re an awesome storyteller. ✌🏻
I'm sending so much encouragement your way for this one! The 280Z is one of my all-time favorites; and I remember you just teasing this one towards the end of the motorcycle build. This is another one of those projects (like the Fiero) that I'd take on myself if I had the space and the tools.
I honestly can't words to how beautiful the 280z is. It is the first thing that comes to mind when someone asks me about my dream car.
Between this and the fiero, you're lighting that spark in me to finally get to my 86 bronco 2 that's been sitting since I graduated high-school almost 7 years ago. Can't wait to see what you do with this thing!
Looking forward to this one even more than the Fiero, mostly because (like your Dad), I have a lot of 80s memories in a 280Z.
I am so freaking excited for this!! Happy to see you back again with a project! I love your videos and the passion that you have for the things you do. And I think you should do the car exactly how YOU want it to be. I promise you, it is going to be awesome!! 😍
Seeing the excitement from your dad is just the best. Keep going man!
Alright, I'm gonna put in my 2 cents on this one. I'm a Datsun fan. Earlier this year, I got a '75 B210 on a whim. Now, I'm going to get my dream car (an S30 Z) for a smoking deal. I agree the journal is a fantastic addition to the car, makes it worth that price tag. It is cool, but that Z doesn't seem to have much left in her. The rust is a big issue and I'm sure KFVintage JDM will become your best friend for the rust repair soon enough. I think that this would be a great opportunity to overhaul the powertrain and revive the car. It could take a VERY long time to get everything right, but that account journal makes me want to give that Z a second lease on life, let it relive the best part of its existence.
It's a lot of work, but it can be so rewarding for you. I wouldn't advise an LS swap, but it is your car. In the Z I plan on getting, the L28 is a fine engine and will do nicely. I'm in AZ and look forward to running in to you one day as a fellow Z owner.
"Drive a Datsun, then decide."
Definitely do what you want to do! Enjoy it when it's fully done up with all the trimmings you want. Especially with it being a multi year series, I think you being really satisfied will keep you motivated and enthusiastic about YOUR OWN project and not just a factory reset. Regardless I'm tuning in for the alternate timelines and reverse Ronald (Dlanor) lore.
Looks like this will be another fantastic series to follow. Your story-based narratives pull me in every time. I found myself back in the 80s, riding shotgun in the 280. I would love to see you restore this car your way. Either way, I know it will be enjoyable to watch. Also, looking forward to seeing how the garage turns out. Thank you for allowing us to come along on your journey Ronald!
Every time I see a new series from this guy, I get filled with immense joy.
Ronald - my kids and I are big fans, we really got hooked thanks to your series on the fiero restoration. We are so excited to see what you do here! Thanks for producing such great, in depth, honest content.
I'm so excited to see this car transform. Loved the Fiero restore, but arrived at that party after it was all done. I'm ready to wait anxiously for each new episode now!
I was along in the beginning of the fiero and I will be here in the beginning for this one too! I’m so excited for another project and can’t wait to see the progress. We will support whatever decision you pick. ❤
It’s cool that you can have these memories all recorded and even your dad has some with his Z. Hopefully can make more together while you work on it. That’s something I can never have. Best of luck with the build and do whatever you want. We’ll watch👌
I followed the entire fierro series from start to finish. Im so excited for this one. Love your editing style and work man keep it up!
This was so beautiful. Wish we had more car content close to this on TH-cam!
I love this! I am admittedly big Z fanboy and I'm excited about this series!
I personally would love seeing a restomod, nothing too crazy, just improving brakes, cooling, suspension and engine rebuild with maybe a few trinkets to make it up to par with modern standards and boom, perfect car. But honestly just do what you want to do with the car man, it is you that have to work on it and if you're not 100% into what you're doing it might be a struggle to stay motivated.
Anyway, looking forward to the rest of these! :D
18:09 ahh that face of utter tiredness and just not caring anymore even after succeeding is something i understand all too well.
awesome vid man im here to support you in anything you do just make sure you enjoy it too, keep it up
I came into the Fiero build in the middle, but now you’re doing one of my favorite cars and I’m here from the start 🤩 I’m beyond excited to see her come back to life!
Always look forward to your videos and I can't wait to see where you take this project. My vote is on making it what you want!
Congratulations on your next project. You did an amazing job with the Fiero and you will with this. The fact that your dad is excited about this project must make it even that more special. Looking forward to this build. You always are so methodical with your builds which I appreciate so much. I glad you share all of it. Keep up the good work man 👍
Now that was a nice early Christmas present! I didn't realize this was a Ronald Finger Production until I started the video. And then it was just so much better than a regular restoration video! Super cool to also get a bonus glimpse of the Interceptor 500 at the end of the video. Awesome. I think you might just have given me the motivation to dig into my KLR to check the valve clearance. Looking forward to the next video.
These 240's are my favorite cars ever. Its insane to me that i got 2 in 2004 to build the one i drove for years for less than you paid for this one.
This looks to be your best project yet. No matter what direction you take it, the journey will be incredible! Can't wait to follow along
I remember when I was a kid there used to be a yellow 280Z parked around my neighborhood for years. I would always admire it's beauty every time we drove by it. Then it disappeared and I haven't seen it ever since 😢
Wow - what a blast from the past. My wasbund had one of these in high school (brand new in 1979). Same color, same wheels, same interior. Even had the same louvers in the back.
I'm so happy that you're working on this car I did a full engine rebuild on my 76 Z without knowing anything about cars and you were a part of the reason for that, seeing you restore that Fiero showed that you just need to put the time into making it nice! I wish you lots of luck on this project!
I just hope he gets some original japanese fenders on it
So happy you're back. One of my favorite channels. For the car-remember, what makes these cars so awesome and why many people love them is the customization. People do some AWESOME builds with these like race cars and daily drivers...do the build you want. I'm sure the original owner would want it to be driven and enjoyed.
So excited for a new series! I looked forward to every one of your original Fiero series.
Ronald, so happy to see another awesome project from you underway. I’m here for the long haul!
Another great vid man! much love from the UK. Honsestly I think you should always do what you want, otherwise you won't be as happy as you would be in the long run. So 100% make the car - and by extension this series how you want it, not how you think it should be or what anyone else would want, do it for you. Already looking forward to watch along this journey with you!
I remember it was about 2018, I got really really sick for about a week and was stuck in bed, and while I was fading in and out of consciousness TH-cam decided that I would be really interested in seeing this series of videos about some guy restoring a fiero. Well it turns out that TH-cam was right, and I ended up watching that series right to the end.
At the end of last year, my son was born and every weekend I try to show him a video of someone working with his hands, so for the past while we've been watching an episode every weekend from your hero videos. I'm looking forward to continuing to watch your other videos with him.
Having a new project by yours upcoming is the best imaginable christmas present!
Such a cool car! fits perfectly in the collection ;-)
Looking forward to see the journey!
I am jealous. SO jealous.... I had a 77 that I wrecked, then sold for more than I originally paid, then have had a few others throughout the years. But have got to admit, I LOVE these cars and my friend, I do hope you restore it. It doesn't have to be bone stock, make it yours, but just make it live and breathe again!!!!!
I'm so excited for this one!! Yaaaay! Do not care if it takes multiple years, you know we'll be here for every bit of it! I'm all for a full resto on this baby.
Whichever choice u pick is gonna be a good one. Im really looking forward to watching the story of this car continue thanks to your work. I absolutely fell in love with the Fiero series and I absolutely know Im gonna love this since I not only prefer older cars but japanese cars as well. Whatever you choose to make, we will watch, because it's interesting in so many ways. You teach us what to do, what not to do and you add that emotional spice to it, which makes us want to see more. Thank you for making these.
Man love the vids, and commentary priceless. Watched you since the first episode of the Pontiac keep it up man 👍🏼
Wow, good luck with this new project! I actually bought in June 2018 a car from 1978 myself, a Triumph Dolomite Sprint that sat for 30 years with the engine dismantled. I put a lot of work into it, and it's my daily since December 2019. Looking forward to seeing the progress :)
Man, when I see a new video from you pop up, I drop what I’m doing and I’m fully consumed with what your working on, keep it up brother!
No matter what you decide to do, we know you’ll make it incredible.
Wow, another really cool project! You really have a knack for finding these gems! I can’t wait to start seeing the progress!
I usually do not comment on youtube, however i just wanted to say that im very thankful to youtube to have had introduced me to your videos. Thank you for your wonderful videos. Cant wait for your next video and this restoration should be a perfect one. Cheers all the way from Saudi Arabia.
Just found this film on my recommended tab and it's one of my favourite video's I've ever watched, definitely going to be sticking around and excited to follow the journey of the Z
Even with the garage still not “z ready” you still have tons of time. The work on the frame and body are definitely where you’ll have to start. After that’s done I’m sure you’ll know where you want to take the project. Good luck! I’ll be along for the ride. ☺️
I'd help you out free of charge in my free time if you were in AZ. I am a collision tech. working in Phoenix. The unibody components and the rust patching should be a priority. God forbid there is an accident that poor car would sadly crumble and probably wouldn't keep you safe either.
this is absolutely incredible ronnie! so excited to watch this new series!
I’ve always been a fan your channel but now I’m extra excited. I’ve loved the Z car since I was in highschool. I had a 1975 280Z in my teenage-early 20 years. I’m 55 now and I have a 1972 240Z. Such beautiful cars. Thank you 🙏 for saving this one.
Great find of a Z car! I don't understand why you don't have over a million subscribers yet. You put so much time and thought into producing quality content. The pride you have in this shows by not only how you produce your videos but also just the sheer attention to detail as you work on these cars. Great job! I'll be watching along on this one like I did with the Fiero. Merry Christmas to you and your family from Alabama.
“I spent time jacking, then went back out to the car to raise it up” ☠️☠️😂 I caught that
As far as this taking a long time. For three years the anticipation and the dopamine rush that came from every video on the fiero gave me many a necessary distraction especially during some of the nastier days of the pandemic. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the 280z
I can't even begin to express how HAPPY i am
The Fiero series was one of my favorite series if not my favorite series ever, and now we're getting a new series with an actual LEYEND of a car.. man i'm so happy and proud of you.
I'll definetly will be watching
Before you have it painted, you should at least buff the old paint, just to see how it held up lol
I agree
I agree with everyone else. Make it the car you want to drive. It’s your car now, and you should continue it’s story rather than trying to preserve its past. Cannot wait to see how it turns out! I followed the fiery project from the first video and always got so excited whenever you uploaded; I’m sure it will be the same for this car too
Man this is amazing. The 240/60/80 is my absolute dream car and I'm really envious of people who get to own , fix and drive one.
This was my first car. 78 Datsun 280Z. I got mine used in 83. Had about 65K miles on it. Fun car.
Either way you go with the repairs, someone will have something to say. I really enjoy watching the repairs and upgrades.
I say do what you like and we will be along for the ride either way. I know it's going to be cool!