I checked the CA DMV website to finally get a difinitive word about what cars are and are not smog exempt.

http://www.dmv.ca.gov/vr/smogfaq.htm

So it looks like you '75 280Z's are in luck, and '76 guys like me are stuck (even though the two years are almost identical).

Any way to get around this? I know my car was MANUFACTURED in December of '75, but argh, this is frustrating. Comments? (Try to keep it non-political)

This has been discussed at least two times and the info is available through search function. Stephen (sblake01) and I have provided links and specific information about Smog Check requirements for CA cars.

One way to get around it.....move to NV. The requirement is based on the model year, not mfg date. Next time you vote, remember who signed the law into effect, and which State Senators and Assemblymen voted for the bill.