Just picked up a 1979 280zx for dirt cheap. ($350). Got it home and noticed the odometer said 9,000 miles. I didn't believe it, later on I pulled the head off, you could still see the factory honing marks. So it makes me think that this car really does only have 9,000 miles. What is the value of the whole car (kinda ugly) or just the engine?
-Nick

I've seen stock engines with nearly 200k have clearly visible crosshatch, these engines don't wear like domestics form the same time period. Value fo the engine, that's a N47 engine and head, so basically scrap value. Might find someone needing a bottom end willing to give $100-200 for the bottom eand the head is worthless. I've had a few given to me. Assuming it's no cherry and has 109k miles it's worth anywhere from $300-$3000. These cars aren't terribly collectible or valuable. they are dependable and fun.

The "easiest" way to distinguish between a 109,00 mile car and a 009,000 [if you have a 5 digit odometer, not counting the tenth of a mile indicator] mile car is to look critically at the wear patterns on the clutch and brake pedals! 9000 mile car pedals don't have rounded edges and corners unless the seller has located NOS or slightly used units from a junk yard.

also steering wheel shift know and seats, a 9k mile car these parts should all look new.