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1968 Car & Driver Road Test: Datsun 2000 Roadster

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In 1968, most major automotive publications were busy fawning over the latest land barges from US manufacturers or making excuses for the build quality of their favorite European sedans or sports cars. However, in mid-1968, Car & Driver dedicated a five-page review to the newly-redesigned 1968 Datsun 2000. Contrary to the author’s opinion, Datsun Roadsters are attractive, albeit possibly more “cute” than handsome. The mandatory changes in response to updated Federal motor vehicle safety standards meant the flat metal dash and low windshield were gone, but the small hood scoop and stacked tail lights remained as unique features. While the majority of Datsun Roadsters built were 1600 models, the 2000 was a legitimate stoplight sleeper. With 135 hp out of the box (and more to be gained with a few tweaks), the 2000 Roadster remains rare and desirable.

[Click photos for full-size scans.]

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Datsun SPL310 Road Test from March 1964 Motor Trend

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To the uninitiated, Datsun roadsters were just a knockoff of the British MGB – but that couldn’t be further from the truth. The Datsun Fairlady was introduced before the MGB (by nearly a year).

Further, while the MGB became heavier, slower, and less attractive after 1967, the opposite was true for the Datsun Roadster, which remained relevant and a great sports car buy until it bowed out in 1970 (to make way for the 240Z).

Check out this road test from the March 1964 issue of Motor Trend magazine. [click on the images for high-resolution versions]
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SR311 Fairlady Roadster racing parts catalog from 1969!

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As early as 1963, the Datsun / Nissan Fairlady Roadster was a formidable competitor on the race circuits of Japan, competing against the best offerings from Europe, Italy, Germany and other Japanese manufacturers. From 1967 to 1970, no other car even placed in the top 5 at Fuji Circuit… That’s domination!