The Datsun brand originated in Japan in 1931, when DAT Motorcar Co. introduced a small car called the Datson. When Nissan took control of DAT in 1934, the name was changed to Datsun, avoiding the negative connotation of son (損, meaning "loss" in Japanese) and aligning with Japan’s national symbol, the sun.
For decades, Datsun was Nissan’s export brand, particularly in markets like the United States and Europe. However, in 1981, Nissan decided to phase out the Datsun name to unify its global branding. By 1986, all Datsun models were rebadged as Nissan, marking the end of the original Datsun era. The brand was briefly revived in 2013 for low-cost vehicles in emerging markets, but was discontinued again in 2022.
Datsun 100A (1970-77)
The **Datsun 1100A (1970–77)** was part of Nissan’s **E10 Cherry series**, designed as a **compact, front-wheel-drive economy car** to compete in the growing **supermini segment**. Nissan aimed to create a **fuel-efficient, affordable, and reliable vehicle** that could appeal to buyers in **Japan and export markets like Europe and Australia**.
**Concept & Intention**
- **First Front-Wheel-Drive Nissan**: The **E10 Cherry series**, including the **1100A**, marked Nissan’s **first front-wheel-drive production car**, a significant technological shift.
- **Fuel Efficiency & Affordability**: Launched during the **1973 oil crisis**, the 1100A was designed to be **lightweight and economical**, making it an attractive choice for cost-conscious buyers.
- **Global Expansion**: Nissan marketed the **1100A** aggressively in **Europe**, where it was branded as the **Datsun 100A**, strengthening its presence in **Western markets**.
- **Compact & Practical Design**: The **E10 Cherry** introduced a **sleek, modern body style**, available in **multiple configurations**, including **sedan, coupe, hatchback, and van**.
- **Cultural Impact**: The **1100A helped establish Datsun’s reputation** for **dependability**, proving that Japanese cars could compete with European brands.
**Impact**
The **1100A’s success** helped Nissan gain a **strong foothold in the UK market**, proving that **Japanese cars could compete with European brands**. Though many were scrapped in the 1980s, surviving examples are now **cherished classics**.
Would you like to explore its **collector value** or **design features**? You can also find more details on the **Datsun Cherry E10 series** [here] (https://datsuns.co.uk/?p=386).
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Popularity
The **Datsun 100A (1970–77)** was a **major success in the UK**, helping Nissan establish itself in the British market. It arrived at a time when **British car manufacturers were struggling with strikes and reliability issues**, making the **100A’s dependability and affordability** highly attractive to buyers.
**Popularity & Sales**
- **Strong Sales Growth**: UK sales began in **July 1971**, and by **1973**, Datsun was selling approximately **60,000 cars per year** four door saloon motor car made by the Nissan ...](https://collection.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/objects/co8038595/datsun-cherry-100a-e10-four-door-saloon-motor-car-made-by-the-nissan-motor-company-ltd).
- **Competitive Pricing**: The **100A was priced lower** than many British rivals, offering **better equipment and reliability**.
- **Market Share Impact**: By the time production ended in **1977**, Datsun had captured around **6% of the UK car market**, a significant achievement for an imported brand four door saloon motor car made by the Nissan ...](https://collection.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/objects/co8038595/datsun-cherry-100a-e10-four-door-saloon-motor-car-made-by-the-nissan-motor-company-ltd).
- **Positive Reviews**: British magazines praised the **100A’s handling, reliability, and standard features**, making it a **popular choice among first-time buyers**.
**Legacy**
The **100A helped pave the way for Nissan’s future success in the UK**, leading to the popularity of later models like the **Cherry, Sunny, and Micra**. Today, surviving examples are **rare and highly collectible**.
Would you like to explore its **collector value** or **restoration challenges**? You can also find more details on the **Datsun Cherry E10 series** [here] (https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/nissan/cherry-e10f10/).
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Get The Complete Picture. If you are interested enough to read about classic cars you will be interested in the environment in which they were created.
Check out our Cost of Living pages indicated below to better understand the limitations of the period in which classic cars evolved.
Datsun 1800 (1968-77)
The Datsun 1800 (1968–77) was developed as part of Nissan’s strategy to **expand its mid-size sedan lineup**, offering a balance of **affordability, reliability, and practicality**. Nissan aimed to position the **1800** as a **competitor to European and American mid-size sedans**, strengthening its presence in **Western markets**.
**Concept & Intention**
- **Market Expansion**: Nissan wanted to establish a stronger foothold in **Europe, Australia, and North America**, where mid-size sedans were in high demand.
- **Affordable & Practical**: The **1800 was priced competitively**, making it an attractive alternative to models like the **Ford Cortina and Hillman Hunter**.
- **Reliable Engineering**: Equipped with a **1.8L SOHC engine**, the 1800 delivered **105 bhp**, offering a balance of **performance and efficiency**.
- **Styling Evolution**: In **1970**, Nissan refreshed the **1800’s design**, introducing a **cleaner body style** and additional features like **twin-speed wipers and fog lights**, making it more appealing.
- **Cultural Impact**: The **Datsun brand** was gaining recognition in the UK, and the **1800 played a role in establishing Nissan’s reputation for reliability and value**.
**Impact**
Although the **Datsun 1800** wasn’t a **high-profile model**, it contributed to **Nissan’s global expansion** and helped the brand **compete with established European manufacturers**. Today, it is considered a **rare classic**, with only a few remaining on UK roads.
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Popularity
The **Datsun 1800 (1968–77)** was a **moderately popular** model in the UK, though it didn’t achieve the same level of success as smaller Datsun models like the **100A**. It was introduced as a **mid-size saloon**, competing with British cars such as the **Ford Cortina, Hillman Hunter, and Austin 1800**.
**Popularity Factors**
- **Competitive Pricing**: At launch in **1968**, the **Datsun 1800** was priced at approximately **£1,000**, making it a **reasonably affordable option**.
- **Reliability & Durability**: Like other Datsun models, it was praised for its **dependability**, which helped it gain a loyal following.
- **Limited Market Presence**: While it sold **reasonably well**, it didn’t dominate the UK market like the **Datsun 100A or 120Y**.
- **Rarity Today**: As of **2025**, only a **few Datsun 1800 sedans remain on UK roads**, making it a **rare classic**.
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Get The Complete Picture. If you are interested enough to read about classic cars you will be interested in the environment in which they were created.
Check out our Cost of Living pages indicated below to better understand the limitations of the period in which classic cars evolved.
Datsun Skyline 240K GT Coupe (1972-77)
The Datsun Skyline 240K GT Coupe (1972–77) was developed as part of Nissan’s **C110 Skyline series**, aiming to blend **sportiness with refinement** while expanding the Skyline’s presence in **international markets**.
**Concept & Intention**
- **Global Expansion**: Nissan wanted to introduce the Skyline to **export markets** like **Australia, New Zealand, and the UK**, where it was branded as the **Datsun 240K**.
- **Balancing Performance & Luxury**: Unlike the **GT-R variant**, which was focused on racing, the **240K GT Coupe** was designed as a **stylish grand tourer**, offering a mix of **comfort and driving excitement**.
- **Distinctive Styling**: The **C110 Skyline** introduced the **round taillight design**, which became a **signature feature** for future Skyline models.
- **Cultural Impact**: In Japan, the **Ken & Mary advertising campaign** made the **C110 Skyline** a household name, reinforcing its **aspirational appeal**.
- **GT-R Legacy**: Although the **GT-R version of the C110** was short-lived due to the **oil crisis**, the **240K GT Coupe** kept the Skyline name alive, ensuring its continued development into the **legendary R32 GT-R**.
**Impact**
While the **240K GT Coupe** wasn’t a **sales juggernaut** in Western markets, it played a crucial role in **expanding the Skyline’s global presence** and shaping its future as a **performance icon**. Today, it’s considered a **rare and desirable classic**, especially among **Japanese car collectors**.
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Popularity
The **Datsun Skyline 240K GT (1972–77)** had a **limited but dedicated following** in the UK. While it wasn’t a mainstream success like the **Datsun 100A or 120Y**, it attracted enthusiasts who appreciated its **distinctive styling and straight-six engine**.
**Popularity Factors**
- **Limited UK Availability**: The **240K GT** was sold in **small numbers**, making it a rare sight on British roads.
- **High Price Tag**: At around **£2,500 in 1972**, it was **more expensive** than many rivals, including the **Ford Cortina Mk3 and Triumph Dolomite**.
- **Performance & Styling Appeal**: Its **American-inspired design** and **2.4L straight-six engine** made it desirable among **Japanese car enthusiasts**](https://datsuns.co.uk/?p=570).
- **Collector Interest**: Today, the **240K GT is highly sought after**, with only **10 registered in the UK as of 2025**.
You can also find more details on the **Datsun Skyline 240K GT** [here] (https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/nissan/240k-skyline-c210/).
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Get The Complete Picture. If you are interested enough to read about classic cars you will be interested in the environment in which they were created.
Check out our Cost of Living pages indicated below to better understand the limitations of the period in which classic cars evolved.
Datsun Sunny 120Y Saloon (1973-78)
The Datsun Sunny 120Y (1973–78) was developed as part of Nissan’s **B210 Sunny series**, designed to offer an **affordable, fuel-efficient, and reliable compact car** for a global audience. Nissan aimed to capitalize on the **1973 oil crisis**, which increased demand for **economical vehicles**, making the 120Y a strategic model for both **domestic and export markets**.
**Concept & Intention**
- **Fuel Efficiency & Affordability**: The 120Y was engineered to be **lightweight and economical**, making it an attractive choice for buyers looking to reduce fuel costs.
- **Global Expansion**: Nissan marketed the 120Y aggressively in **Europe, Australia, and North America**, strengthening its presence in **Western markets**.
- **Reliability & Accessibility**: Unlike many European cars, the **120Y was readily available**, with **no long waiting lists**, making it a **go-to choice** for buyers.
- **Styling & Practicality**: The **B210 Sunny** introduced a **sleek, modern design**, available in **multiple body styles**, including **sedan, coupe, wagon, and van**.
- **Cultural Impact**: The **120Y helped establish Datsun’s reputation** for **dependability**, proving that Japanese cars could compete with European brands.
**Impact**
The **120Y’s success** helped Nissan dominate the **UK market** in the mid-1970s, proving that **Japanese cars could compete with European brands**. Though many were scrapped in the 1980s, surviving examples are now **cherished classics** Review | Honest John](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/nissan/datsun-sunny-120y-1973/)](https://datsuns.co.uk/?p=380).
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Popularity
The **Datsun Sunny 120Y (1973–78)** was **hugely popular** in the UK, helping Nissan establish itself as a dominant force in the British car market. It arrived at a time when **British manufacturers were struggling with strikes and reliability issues**, making the **120Y’s dependability and affordability** highly attractive to buyers.
**Popularity & Sales**
- **Strong Sales Growth**: Between **1973 and 1978**, Nissan sold nearly **150,000 units** of the **120Y in the UK**, making it one of the most successful Japanese imports - AROnline](https://www.aronline.co.uk/reviews/nissan-reviews-ar-cars/datsun-sunny-b210/).
- **Competitive Pricing**: The **120Y was priced lower** than many British rivals, offering **better equipment and reliability** Review | Honest John](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/nissan/datsun-sunny-120y-1973/).
- **Market Share Impact**: By the late **1970s**, Datsun had captured a **significant portion of the UK car market**, largely due to the **120Y’s success** - AROnline](https://www.aronline.co.uk/reviews/nissan-reviews-ar-cars/datsun-sunny-b210/).
- **Positive Reviews**: British magazines praised the **120Y’s fuel efficiency, practicality, and standard features**, making it a **popular choice among families and first-time buyers** Review | Honest John](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/nissan/datsun-sunny-120y-1973/).
**Legacy**
The **120Y helped pave the way for Nissan’s future success in the UK**, leading to the popularity of later models like the **Sunny, Cherry, and Micra**. Today, surviving examples are **rare and highly collectible**](https://datsuns.co.uk/?p=380).
Would you like to explore its **collector value** or **restoration challenges**? You can also find more details on the **Datsun Sunny 120Y** [here] (https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/nissan/datsun-sunny-120y-1973/).
Get The Complete Picture. If you are interested enough to read about classic cars you will be interested in the environment in which they were created.
Check out our Cost of Living pages indicated below to better understand the limitations of the period in which classic cars evolved.
Datsun 260Z 2+2 (1973-77)
The Datsun 260Z 2+2 (1973) was developed as an evolution of the **240Z**, designed to expand Nissan’s **Z-car lineup** by offering a more **practical sports coupe**. Nissan aimed to **broaden the appeal** of the Z-series by introducing a **longer wheelbase** and **rear seats**, making the car more suitable for buyers who needed extra space without sacrificing performance.
**Concept & Intention**
- **Expanding the Z-Car Market**: The **2+2 configuration** introduced a **longer wheelbase**, allowing for **rear seats**, making the 260Z more practical for buyers who needed extra space.
- **Evolution of the 240Z**: The 260Z retained the **classic styling** of the 240Z but featured a **larger 2.6L inline-six engine**, offering **slightly more power** and refinement.
- **Global Sales Strategy**: Nissan aimed to **strengthen its presence in the U.S. and European markets**, where demand for **sports cars with added practicality** was growing.
- **Bridging the Gap to the 280ZX**: The 260Z helped transition the Z-series toward **greater comfort and refinement**, paving the way for the **280ZX**, which leaned more into the **grand touring segment**.
- **Cultural Impact**: While the **240Z was a pure sports car**, the **260Z 2+2** introduced a **new dimension** to the Z-car lineup, proving that Nissan could balance **performance with usability**.
**Impact**
Though it wasn’t as iconic as the **240Z**, the **260Z 2+2** played a vital role in **expanding Nissan’s sports car appeal**, ensuring the Z-series remained relevant in a changing market. Today, it remains a **collectible classic**, appreciated for its unique blend of **style, performance, and practicality**.
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Popularity
The Datsun 260Z 2+2 (1973–77) had a **modest but dedicated following** in the UK. While it didn’t achieve the same mainstream success as smaller Datsun models like the **120Y**, it was appreciated by enthusiasts for its **sporty styling and straight-six engine**.
**Popularity Factors**
- **Limited UK Availability**: The **260Z 2+2** was sold in **smaller numbers**, making it a **rarer sight** on British roads.
- **Performance Appeal**: With its **2.6L straight-six engine**, producing **162 bhp**, it was a **strong competitor** against European sports cars.
- **Market Competition**: It faced rivals like the **Ford Capri 3.0, Triumph Stag, and BMW 2002**, which had **strong brand loyalty** in the UK.
- **Collector Interest**: Today, the **260Z 2+2 is highly sought after**, with restored examples fetching **high prices** in auctions.
Would you like to explore its **collector value** or **racing history**? You can also find more details on the **Datsun 260Z** [here](https://classicsworld.co.uk/guides/datsun-240z-260z-buyers-guide/).
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Get The Complete Picture. If you are interested enough to read about classic cars you will be interested in the environment in which they were created.
Check out our Cost of Living pages indicated below to better understand the limitations of the period in which classic cars evolved.
Datsun Laurel Six (1977-80)
The 1977 Datsun Laurel Six was developed as part of Nissan’s **C130 Laurel series**, designed to offer a **mid-range executive car** that balanced **comfort, refinement, and affordability**. Nissan aimed to position the Laurel between the **smaller Bluebird** and the **larger Cedric**, providing a **smooth six-cylinder engine** and **luxurious features** at a competitive price.
**Concept & Intention**
- **Bridging the Gap in Nissan’s Lineup**: The Laurel was meant to fill the space between **compact sedans** and **full-size luxury models**, offering a **premium driving experience** without the high cost of a Cedric.
- **Styling Influence**: The **C130 Laurel** introduced **distinctive “Coke bottle” styling**, inspired by **American cars**, making it stand out from British-produced rivals.
- **Export Market Expansion**: While the Laurel was primarily sold in **Japan**, it was also introduced in **Australia, New Zealand, and the UK**, helping Nissan expand its global presence.
- **Engineering & Performance**: The **2.0L six-cylinder engine** provided a **refined driving experience**, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking **comfort and reliability**.
- **Cultural Impact**: Nissan marketed the Laurel as an **executive car**, but it struggled to gain traction in the UK, where Japanese cars were still viewed as unconventional choices for business professionals.
**Impact**
Although the **Laurel Six** wasn’t a **high-profile model** in Western markets, it played a crucial role in **Nissan’s strategy to expand its executive car lineup**. Today, it is considered a **rare and collectible classic**, especially in the UK, where only a handful remain.
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Popularity
The Datsun Laurel Six (1977–80) had a **modest presence** in the UK but never achieved mainstream popularity. It was introduced as a **mid-size executive saloon**, competing with models like the **Ford Granada, Rover SD1, and Vauxhall Carlton**.
**Popularity Factors**
- **Competitive Pricing**: The **Laurel Six** was priced at around **£2,983** in 1977, making it **cheaper than a Ford Granada 2000GL**.
- **Luxury Features**: It offered **good equipment**, including a **radio-cassette player as standard**, which was rare for its price range.
- **Styling Challenges**: The **C130 model’s American-inspired design** was seen as **distinctive but not universally appealing**, limiting its market reach.
- **Limited Market Presence**: Datsun GB initially hoped to sell **2,000 units per year**, but the **Laurel Six remained a niche choice**.
- **Rarity Today**: As of **2025**, only **five examples** remain on British roads, making it one of the **UK’s rarest classic cars**.
You can also find more details on the **Datsun Laurel Six** [here] (https://datsuns.co.uk/?p=552).
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Get The Complete Picture. If you are interested enough to read about classic cars you will be interested in the environment in which they were created.
Check out our Cost of Living pages indicated below to better understand the limitations of the period in which classic cars evolved.
Datsun 240Z (1969-73)
The **Datsun 240Z**, introduced in **1969**, was designed to revolutionize the **affordable sports car market**, offering **European-style performance** at a **competitive price**. Nissan/Datsun aimed to create a **stylish, reliable, and fun-to-drive coupe** that could compete with established brands like **Porsche, Jaguar, and MG**.
**Concept & Intention**
- **Affordable Performance**: The 240Z was engineered to provide **high-speed capability and agile handling** at a price far lower than European competitors.
- **Global Expansion**: Nissan wanted to **strengthen its presence in the U.S. market**, where demand for sports cars was growing.
- **Sleek & Modern Design**: The **long-hood, short-rear deck styling** was inspired by **European grand tourers**, making it visually appealing.
- **Reliable Engineering**: Unlike many European sports cars, the 240Z was built with **Japanese reliability**, ensuring longevity and ease of maintenance.
- **Influence on Future Models**: The success of the 240Z paved the way for later **Z-series models**, including the **260Z, 280ZX, and modern Nissan Z cars**.
**Impact**
The **240Z’s combination of sleek styling, strong performance, and affordability** made it a **game-changer**, helping Nissan establish itself as a serious competitor in the global sports car market.
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Popularity
The **Datsun 240Z (1969–73)** gained popularity in the UK, though it wasn’t as widespread as in the **United States**, where it became a massive success. It arrived in the UK in **October 1970**, but sales didn’t pick up until **1971**, as import taxes made it **more expensive** than British rivals like the **MGB GT, Ford Capri 3000GT, and Triumph GT6**.
**Popularity Factors**
- **Competitive Performance**: With a **2.4L straight-six engine** producing **151 bhp**, the **240Z offered strong performance**, rivaling European sports cars Review | Honest John](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/nissan/240z/).
- **Reliability & Build Quality**: Unlike some British sports cars, the **240Z was praised for its durability**, making it a **trusted choice for enthusiasts** Review | Honest John](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/nissan/240z/).
- **Limited UK Availability**: While it sold well, it wasn’t as common as the **Ford Capri or Triumph Stag**, making it a **rarer sight on British roads**.
- **Collector Interest**: Today, the **240Z is highly sought after**, with restored examples fetching **high prices** in auctions.
Would you like to explore its **collector value** or **racing history**? You can also find more details on the **Datsun 240Z** [here] (https://www.classiccarsforsale.co.uk/reviews/classic-datsun-reviews-240z).
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Get The Complete Picture. If you are interested enough to read about classic cars you will be interested in the environment in which they were created.
Check out our Cost of Living pages indicated below to better understand the limitations of the period in which classic cars evolved.