Datsun 510
The "poor man's BMW" — a genuinely capable, race-proven sport sedan that punched far above its modest price tag.
Directly inspired by contemporary BMW sport sedans but sold at a fraction of the price, the Datsun 510 combined a rigid unibody, independent rear suspension, and a torquey overhead-cam four-cylinder into a genuinely rewarding sport sedan — a specification sheet no other affordable car of the era could match. Its competition success on American road-racing circuits cemented a reputation for handling that still drives strong collector demand today, distinct entirely from the later Z-car's sports coupe identity.
History
Introduced for 1968, the 510 borrowed its independent rear suspension layout and overall engineering philosophy from BMW's contemporary "Neue Klasse" sedans, but Datsun's far lower price made genuinely sophisticated handling accessible to a much broader buyer.
The 510 became a dominant force in American amateur and professional road racing through the early 1970s, most notably winning the SCCA Trans-Am 2.5 Challenge championship in both 1971 and 1972 — real competition success that built the model's enduring reputation among enthusiasts.
Offered as a two-door sedan, four-door sedan, and wagon, the 510 gave Datsun a genuinely broad reach into the American market at a critical moment, helping establish the brand's reputation for engineering credibility ahead of the 240Z's arrival.
Notable Versions
2-Door Sedan
The lightest and most sought-after body style among collectors and racers, offering the best power-to-weight ratio in the range.
SSS Trim (JDM)
A higher-performance Japan-market trim with a twin-carburetor engine, distinct from the single-carb US-spec cars.
Wagon
A genuinely practical body style sharing the sedan's mechanical strengths, with a growing following of its own among collectors today.
What to Look for When Buying
Key inspection points from experienced collectors.
Rust is extensive and often severe
Floor pans, rear frame rails, and the front strut towers rust badly on surviving 510s — a thorough inspection is essential before buying, especially on cars from humid or salted-road regions.
Verify racing history claims against real documentation
Given the model's competition pedigree, unsubstantiated race-history claims are common — ask for genuine documentation before paying a premium for one.
Two-door cars command a real premium over four-doors
Know which body style you're valuing — the differences in collector demand are significant.
Check for period-correct versus later engine swaps
Many surviving 510s have received later Datsun/Nissan engine swaps for reliability or performance — originality affects both value and character.
Inspect suspension bushings and mounting points
The independent rear suspension that makes the 510 special also has specific wear points worth checking on a car this age.
Quick Specs
- Engine
- 1.6L SOHC I4
- Horsepower
- 96 hp
- Wheelbase
- 92.1 in
- Weight
- approx. 2,050–2,200 lbs
- Transmission
- 4-speed manual (5-speed and automatic optional)
- 0–60
- approx. 12–13 seconds
Market Price Guide
Approximate USA asking prices
Datsun 510 For Sale
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