I've got about $1000-$2000 to spend on my car... I will obviously need some leftover to do other upgrades like little interior things and whatnot, but I as wondering if anyone new of a good engine to swap into a 280zx or maybe good ideas to boost my little l28 135hp engine

Welcome aboard!

Easiest? 280ZX Turbo engine (81-83).

yup, L28ET, the 82-83 is more common and easier to find parts for, the 81 uses some proprietary parts that can be hard to find. The stock L28ET is about 180 hp, add an intercooler and boost controller and you can have over 200 at the wheel which is about double what you are making now.

Thanks, I'll look into that

Hey, I just thought of something... I have a buddy that's got a 280zx (can't remember what year) and he swapped an RB25 out of a skyline. He of course modded it slightly and gets 400+ rwhp, any thoughts on that idea?

Common swap, but you're not doing that for less than $4-5K.

(His 400+ RWHP claim is probably a tad optimistic, also. I have a fully-built, RB-swapped Z).

400 whp is also very possible wiht the L28ET for a lot less money. With either engine you'll need, intercooler, intake, exhaust, injectors, ecu, larger turbo, The L28ET would also need forged pistons, head studs and MLS headgasket, which is cheaper than the initial cost of buying the RB not to mention the cost of a swap kit unless you are up to fabbing the oil pan and mounts, even then the L28ET is cheaper and easier. You could just about do a 400 whp L28ET for the cost of a 250 whp RB swap. RB's are easier to find these days than the L28ET sp there is that.

Ahhh, ok thanks