Datsun Laurel Six (1977-80)

Overview: The **1977 Datsun Laurel Six** was significant for Nissan/Datsun as it represented the brand’s **attempt to bridge the gap** between the smaller **Bluebird** and the more upscale **Cedric**, offering a **mid-range executive car** with a balance of **comfort, refinement, and affordability**.

**Key Significance**

- **Positioning in the Market**: The Laurel was designed to compete with **European executive sedans**, offering a **smooth six-cylinder engine** and **luxurious features** at a lower price.

- **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.

**Legacy**

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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COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The Datsun Laurel Six (C230) from 1977 to 1980 had a few common faults that owners have reported over the years:

1. **Rust**: Like many cars from that era, the Datsun Laurel Six was prone to rust, especially in the wheel arches, sills, and floor pans.
2. **Electrical Issues**: Some owners experienced problems with the electrical system, including faulty wiring and issues with the alternator.
3. **Fuel System**: There were reports of fuel system issues, such as fuel leaks and problems with the fuel pump.
4. **Cooling System**: Overheating was a common issue, often due to a failing radiator or water pump.
5. **Suspension**: The suspension components, such as bushings and shock absorbers, could wear out relatively quickly, leading to a less comfortable ride.

These are some of the common problems that have been reported.
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Generations/Trim Levels
Please Note: Generations and Trim Levels Across Countries
Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products.

The Datsun Laurel Six went through several generations and had various trim levels. Here's an overview:

Generations
1. First Generation (C30; 1968-1972):
- Available as a 2-door hardtop coupé and 4-door sedan.
- Engines: 1.8L G-18 I4, 2.0L G-20 I4.

2. Second Generation (C130; 1972-1977):
- Available as a 2-door hardtop coupé and 4-door sedan.
- Engines: 1.8L G-18 I4, 2.0L G-20 I4, 2.0L L20 I6.

3. **Third Generation (C230; 1977-1980)**:
- Available as a 4-door sedan, 4-door hardtop, and 2-door hardtop.
- Engines: 1.8L L18 I4, 1.8L Z18 I4, 2.0L L20/L20E I6, 2.4L L24 I6, 2.8L L28/L28E I6] (https://datsuns.co.uk/?p=552).

4. **Fourth Generation (C31; 1980-1984)**:
- Available as a 4-door sedan and 4-door hardtop.
- Engines: 1.8L Z18 I4, 2.0L L20/L20E I6, 2.4L L24 I6, 2.8L L28E I6, 2.0L diesel - datsuns.co.uk] (https://datsuns.co.uk/?p=556).

Trim Levels
The trim levels varied by market and generation, but some common ones included:
- **Deluxe**: Basic trim with essential features.
- **Super Deluxe**: Added more comfort and convenience features.
- **Medallist**: Top-of-the-line trim with luxury features.
- **Givenchy Version**: A special limited edition with unique styling and features - datsuns.co.uk] (https://datsuns.co.uk/?p=556).
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Designer/Dimensions
The Datsun Laurel Six (C230) was designed by **Shinichiro Sakurai**, a renowned Japanese automotive engineer.

Here are the dimensions for the 1978 Datsun Laurel Six:
- **Length**: 4496 mm (177 inches)
- **Width**: 1664 mm (65.5 inches)
- **Height**: 1410 mm (55.5 inches)
- **Wheelbase**: 2667 mm (105 inches)
- **Weight**: Approximately 1195 kg (2635 lbs).
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Production Total: The total production for the Datsun Laurel Six (C230) from 1977 to 1980 was 423,209 units.
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Price New (Prices)
In 1977, the Datsun Laurel Six had a starting price of approximately **£2,983.40** in the UK. This made it a competitive option in the market, offering good value for money with its robust engineering and ample equipment.
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Sales: The **Datsun Laurel Six (1977–80)** had a **mixed sales performance**, particularly in the **UK market**. While it was well-received in **Japan**, where Nissan positioned it as a **mid-range executive car**, it struggled to gain traction in **Western markets**.

**Sales Performance**

- **Japan**: The Laurel was a **popular choice** among buyers looking for a **comfortable, well-equipped sedan** with a **smooth six-cylinder engine**.

- **UK**: Datsun GB initially hoped to sell **over 2,000 units per year**, but the **distinctive styling** and **quasi-American design** were not widely embraced.

- **Market Challenges**: British buyers were hesitant to adopt **Japanese executive cars**, as company fleets and professionals still favored **European brands** like Volvo, Mercedes, and BMW.

- **Pricing Strategy**: The Laurel was competitively priced—**£2,983.40**, significantly cheaper than a **Ford Granada 2000GL**—but it still struggled to gain mainstream appeal.

**Legacy**

Despite its **limited success in the UK**, the **Laurel Six** was a **well-appointed, dependable sedan**, and today, it is considered a **rare and collectible classic**, with only a handful remaining on British roads.

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Historical Pricing Comparisons

The **Datsun Laurel Six (1977–80)** was positioned as a **mid-size executive saloon**, offering a balance of **comfort, reliability, and affordability**. Its pricing was competitive compared to British and European rivals.

**Historical Pricing Comparisons**

- **New Price (1977, UK)**: **£2,983**  

- **Rival Prices (1977, UK)**:

  - **Ford Granada 2000GL**: **£3,500**

  - **Rover SD1 2000**: **£3,200**

  - **Vauxhall Carlton 2000**: **£3,100**

  - **Triumph Dolomite Sprint**: **£3,000**

**Current Market Value (2025)**

- **Lowest Price Recorded**: **£4,500**  

- **Median Price**: **£9,200**  

- **Highest Price Recorded**: **£15,750**  

- **Registered in UK (2025)**: **Only five units remaining**.

The **Laurel Six has become one of the UK’s rarest classic cars**, with values rising due to its **limited availability and enthusiast demand**.

Would you like to explore its **collector appeal** or **restoration challenges**? You can also find more details on **Datsun Laurel Six pricing** [here](https://www.stillmotoring.co.uk/items-48).

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Highest Sales Figures by Country

The **Datsun Laurel Six (1977–80)** saw its highest sales in **Japan**, where it was marketed as a **mid-size executive saloon**. In Japan, Nissan positioned the **Laurel Six** between the **Bluebird and Cedric**, making it a popular choice for buyers seeking **comfort and refinement** without stepping into the luxury segment.

Outside Japan, the **Laurel Six** was sold in **Europe, Australia, and the UK**, but in **smaller numbers**. In the **UK**, it was introduced in **1977**, but sales remained **limited**, partly due to its **distinctive styling and competition from British executive cars** like the **Ford Granada and Rover SD1**.

Would you like to explore its **collector value** or **technical specifications**? You can also find more details on the **Datsun Laurel Six** [here](https://www.stillmotoring.co.uk/items-48).

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Most Favoured Colour

The **Datsun Laurel Six (1977–80)** was available in a variety of colors, but some shades were particularly popular among buyers. The most favored colors included:

- **208 Sunny Yellow** – A bright and cheerful shade that stood out on UK roads.

- **601 Green Mint Poly** – A distinctive green with a metallic finish.

- **603 Maroon Mist Poly** – A deep maroon that added a touch of luxury.

- **618 Chrome Yellow** – A bold yellow, often chosen for its striking appearance.

- **638 Black Pearl Poly** – A sleek and sophisticated black with a metallic sheen.

- **130 Silver Poly** – A timeless silver, favored for its understated elegance.

- **364 Midnight Blue Poly** – A dark blue that complemented the Laurel’s executive styling.

These colors were widely available throughout the **Laurel Six’s production run**, with **Silver Poly and Black Pearl Poly** remaining top choices for buyers.

Would you like to explore its **collector value** or **restoration tips**? You can also find more details on **Datsun Laurel Six colors** [here] (https://www.uniquecarsandparts.com.au/colour_swatch_datsun_1977-80).

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Main Rivals (Price) 

In 1977, the Datsun Laurel Six faced competition from several other vehicles. Here are some of its chief rivals and their approximate prices in the UK at that time:

1. **Ford Granada 2000GL**: Around £3,500
2. **Vauxhall Carlton 2000**: Around £3,200
3. **Rover SD1 2000**: Around £3,600
4. **Triumph 2000**: Around £3,300

These prices reflect the competitive landscape in which the Datsun Laurel Six was positioned.
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Engines
The 1978 Datsun Laurel Six (C230) offered several engine options with varying power outputs:

1. **1.8L L18 I4**:
- Power: 105 HP @ 6000 RPM
- Torque: 145 Nm @ 3600 RPM

2. **2.0L L20 I6**:
- Power: 115 HP @ 5600 RPM
- Torque: 160 Nm @ 3600 RPM

3. **2.4L L24 I6**:
- Power: 130 HP @ 5600 RPM
- Torque: 195 Nm @ 3600 RPM

4. **2.8L L28 I6**:
- Power: 136 HP @ 5000 RPM
- Torque: 198 Nm @ 3000 RPM.

These engines provided a range of performance options to suit different driving preferences.
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Performance
The 1978 Datsun Laurel Six (C230) was designed to offer a balance of comfort and performance. Here are some key performance figures:

- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 12.5 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 105 mph

These figures reflect the car's focus on providing a smooth and comfortable ride rather than sporty performance.
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Historical Advertisements & Marketing Strategy

The **Datsun Laurel Six (1977–80)** was marketed as a **mid-size executive saloon**, emphasizing **comfort, reliability, and affordability**. Nissan positioned it between the **Bluebird and Cedric**, targeting buyers who wanted **luxury without stepping into the premium segment**.

**Marketing Strategy**

- **Competitive Pricing**: Advertisements highlighted the **Laurel Six’s affordability**, comparing it to **European executive cars** like the **Ford Granada and Rover SD1**.

- **Luxury Features**: Nissan promoted its **well-appointed interior**, including a **radio-cassette player as standard**, which was rare for its price range.

- **Distinctive Styling**: The **C130 model’s American-inspired design** was a key selling point, though it was seen as **an acquired taste** in the UK.

- **Target Audience**: Ads positioned the **Laurel Six** as ideal for **British professionals, executives, and businessmen**, though Japanese company cars were still a rarity in corporate fleets.

- **Performance & Economy**: Marketing materials emphasized its **2.0L straight-six engine**, offering a balance of **power and efficiency**.

Would you like to explore its **collector appeal** or **advertising visuals**? You can also find more details on **Datsun Laurel Six advertisements** [here] (https://autocatalogarchive.com/datsun/).

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Rarity & Collector Appeal

The **Datsun Laurel Six (1977–80)** has become an **exceptionally rare classic**, particularly in the **UK**, where only a handful remain on the roads.

**Rarity & Collector Appeal**

- **UK Rarity**: As of **2025**, only **five units** are registered in the UK, making it one of the **rarest Japanese saloons**.

- **Distinctive Styling**: The **C130 model’s American-inspired design** was an acquired taste, leading to **limited sales** in Western markets.

- **Survival Rate**: Many **Laurel Six models were scrapped in the 1980s**, as their **engines outlasted their rust-prone bodies**.

- **Collector Interest**: Today, surviving examples are **highly sought after**, with enthusiasts appreciating their **luxurious interior and smooth six-cylinder engine**.

- **Rising Values**: Prices have steadily increased due to **limited availability and growing demand** among **Japanese classic car collectors**.

You can also find more details on the **Datsun Laurel Six’s collector appeal** [here] (https://bing.com/search?q=Datsun+Laurel+Six+1977-80+rarity+collector+appeal).

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Recorded in UK 2025
As of 2025, there are **4 Datsun Laurel Six** vehicles licensed and **7 on SORN (Statutory Off-Road Notification)** in the UK. This makes it quite a rare sight on the roads today.
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Parts Bin Engineering

The **Datsun Laurel Six (1977–80)** utilized **parts bin engineering**, meaning it shared components with other Nissan models to **reduce costs and improve reliability**. This approach allowed Nissan to streamline production while ensuring **interchangeability of parts** across different vehicles.

**Key Shared Components**

- **L-Series Engine**: The **Laurel Six** was powered by the **L20 inline-six engine**, which was also used in the **Datsun 200L and Cedric** - StillMotoring](https://www.stillmotoring.co.uk/items-48/datsun-laurel-six-%281978).

- **Transmission**: It shared **manual and automatic gearbox options** with the **Datsun Bluebird and 280C**, ensuring easy part availability.

- **Suspension System**: The **front strut suspension** was similar to that found in the **Datsun 1800**, contributing to its **stable handling** - StillMotoring](https://www.stillmotoring.co.uk/items-48/datsun-laurel-six-%281978).

- **Brake Components**: Many **brake parts** were interchangeable with **other L-series Datsuns**, making repairs more accessible.

- **Interior Features**: The **dashboard layout and switchgear** were borrowed from **other Nissan executive sedans**, maintaining a familiar design - StillMotoring] (https://www.stillmotoring.co.uk/items-48/datsun-laurel-six-%281978).

This **parts-sharing strategy** helped Nissan **reduce production costs**, improve **serviceability**, and ensure **long-term reliability** for the **Datsun Laurel Six**.

Would you like to explore its **collector appeal** or **restoration challenges**? You can also find more details on **Datsun Laurel Six parts** [here] (https://datnissparts.com/).

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Spares/Specialists
For locating spares for your Datsun Laurel Six in the UK and Ireland, you can check out the following sources:

1. **[Auto Parts Pro](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/nissan-laurel-carparts)**: They offer a wide range of parts for the Datsun Laurel.
2. **[Jonnie Jumble](https://jonniejumble.co.uk/classic_car_parts/vehicle/Datsun.shtml)**: They have a variety of classic Datsun parts in stock.
3. **[Datman Datsun Parts](https://www.bizseek.co.uk/datman-datsun-parts)**: A specialist for Datsun models, offering mail order service and restoration parts.

As for garage services in Northern Ireland, here are a few options:

1. [Commons Brae Garage] (https://www.bing.com/search?q=Commons%20Brae%20Garage&filters=local_ypid%3a%22YN1029x10449044347235568160%22)**: Located at 188 Saintfield Road, Belfast. Phone: 028 9543 8739.
2. **[Auto Services] (https://autoserviceslisburn.co.uk/)**: Located at 27 Bachelors Walk, Lisburn. Phone: 028 9267 5322.
3. **[The Motor Gym] (https://www.themotorgym.com/)**: Located at 18A Balloo Avenue, Bangor. Phone: 028 9145 3310.
4. **[Total Garage Solution](https://www.facebook.com/people/Total-Garage-Solutions/100057313215904/)**: Located at 33 Downshire Road, Newry. Phone: 07552 911075.

These garages should be able to help you maintain your classic Datsun Laurel Six.
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Racing
The Datsun Laurel Six (C230) was not primarily designed for racing, and there are no notable records of it competing in major racing events. However, Datsun had a strong presence in motorsports during the 1960s and 1970s, with other models like the Datsun 510 and Datsun 240Z achieving significant success in racing and rallying.
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Valuation
The value of a 1978 Datsun Laurel Six (C230) in the UK today can vary based on its condition and rarity. Here are some approximate values:

1. **Fair Condition**: Around £2,000 to £3,000
2. **Good Condition**: Around £4,000 to £6,000
3. **Very Good Condition**: Around £7,000 to £9,000
4. **Excellent Condition**: Around £10,000 to £12,000

These values can fluctuate based on factors such as mileage, originality, and any modifications.

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Clubs

There isn’t a **specific Datsun Laurel owners club** dedicated to Northern Ireland, but you do have a few options:

- The **Datsun Club UK** is a broader club for **classic Datsun and Nissan owners**, including models like the **Laurel, 240Z, and 180B**. They have an **online forum** where enthusiasts can connect and arrange local meets.

- The **Datsun Laurel Owners 1968–1993** group on **Facebook** is an international community where Laurel owners share restoration tips, photos, and events.

- Northern Ireland has several **classic car clubs**, such as the **Ulster Vintage Car Club**, which may have members who own Datsun Laurels.

If you’re looking for **local Laurel enthusiasts**, joining the **Datsun Club UK** or the **Facebook group** would be a great start! 

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