Tech - News
8 Datsuns That Were The Best They Ever Made
By MARK COWLEY
Datsun 240K
A Skyline sold under the Datsun name in most export markets, the 240K highlights the confusing relationship between Datsun, Nissan, and Prince.
The Datsun 240K was a more practical, family-friendly car, but one built with the same enthusiast-oriented handling and competitive price.
Datsun 240Z
Datsun’s 240Z was one of the company’s most successful cars, offering fast speeds and a stylish design for an affordable price.
The 240Z was wildly successful, with over 160,000 units sold in America alone, and Nissan quickly followed the first-generation car up with the mechanically-similar 260Z and 280Z.
Datsun Cherry
Unveiled in 1970, the Cherry was Datsun’s first front-wheel drive car and a continuation of a project that Prince had worked on before Nissan’s takeover in 1966.
The car sold well in Europe and survived several generations. Although economical, affordable, and dependable, the Cherry picked up a reputation as a rather boring car.
Datsun 510
Before the launch of the 240Z solidified Datsun’s name as a serious player, the 510 proved the manufacturer could make a sports sedan that could compete with America’s best.
The car became a massive success because it was reliable and offered decent power and handling at a price that U.S. manufacturers struggled to match.
Coupe 1500/Silvia
The first Nissan Silvia was initially called the Datsun Coupe 1500 when it was revealed in 1964, but the badge was eventually changed to Nissan when it launched.
It was sold in various export markets, although the car’s high price and name confusion meant it saw very little success.