1966 Datsun 1600 Roadster
HIGHLIGHTS
A Handsome and Rare Roadster Ready to Drive
Original 1600cc Engine
Nardi Wood Steering Wheel
Desirable “Porthole” Hardtop
SPECIFICATIONS
VIN - XXXXXXX
Engine – 1.6L, Four Cylinder
Gearbox – 4 Speed Manual
Drivetrain - Front engine, RWD
PRICING INFORMATION
Price - SOLD
OVERVIEW
Developed by Datsun (later renamed in the US as Nissan) as one of their first export market projects, Datsun hoped to develop a small roadster with driving and style traits that would address the growing sportscar market. Earliest attempts were admirable but lacked both power and presence to have enough impact as a world-market car. Sold both as the “Fairlady” and “Sports 1600”, by late 1965 the design had evolved significantly with improvements in suspension, driving manners, a reliable 1600 cc engine, and a stylish body. The car was developed in part by design legend Albrecht Goertz, designer of the BMW 507 and early contributor to the 240Z.
With major improvements in the 1965 design, sales in North America increased as enthusiasts discovered the combination of sportiness and value in a roadster capable of delivering a wide range of enjoyable driving experiences. Surprised American buyers took note, especially after being avoiding finicky British or Italian cars. The 1600 Roadster built a strong following through 1970, one that importantly paved the way to the next groundbreaking Datsun offering, the 240Z.
This 1600 Roadster is a very handsome example displaying quality finishes that can be enjoyed as a regular driver or used for local gatherings, cars and coffee events, and driven on club rallies. Although the early history of this car has yet to be discovered, the condition of the chassis and overall presentation indicate it was very well preserved during its early years and remains so today. Under current ownership, the car has always been stored indoors, the interior has been reupholstered, and other mechanical and cosmetic details have been tended to, including regular fluid changes and general servicing.
The exterior finish is well done overall with good coverage to what appears to be a largely original and sound body. The current owner indicates there have been no accidents during his ownership, and panel fit appears consistent with factory fitting further in support of factory body panels. The doors have tight closure and good fit at the rocker panels. The hood and trunk are particularly nice displaying the original factory lightening holes in the stiffening sub-structure. Even the rear wheel arches still display the factory crimping marks around the inner fender edges. The chrome is in very good condition with good reflections and smooth coverage on the bumpers, taillights, and other trim. The front fascia, often irregularly repaired when damaged, appears to be original with a very nice grill and excellent fit to the contoured headlight bezels and hood. The glass and lighting are also in very good condition. The doors, trunk and windshield have excellent rubber seals, many of which appear to have been recently replaced when the car was repainted. A matched set of contemporary newer Uniroyal radial tires are mounted on the factory steel wheels with correct trim rings and non-branded chrome center hubcaps.
The interior is a tidy combination of enjoyably refreshed materials with consistent finishes following original specifications. The upholstery itself is in good shape, particularly the seats, which have been recently recovered in high quality black vinyl. The carpeting appears also recently replaced, while the dashboard, steering wheel, and instruments appear original and visually quite nice, with the main dash panel having been painted to match the exterior of the car. A fitting sporty touch is the addition of a very nicely finished aluminum spoke wood rimmed Nardi steering wheel. There are no major deviations from stock inside or outside, in keeping with the combination of preservation and restoration perfectly suited for an enthusiast’s leisurely use. The undercarriage is dry and clean, with finishes that further support the original panels, including sound frame rails and sub-frame construction, properly mounted suspension, and finishes consistent with the overall integrity of the car.
The engine compartment is attractive and clean, having been properly finished with attention to originality with some acceptable deviations afforded for modern motoring. The engine compartment shows only modest signs of use, but remains quite attractive, in keeping with the nicely prepared exterior presentation. The firewall and inner fenders show no visible signs of damage or repair to the fluted stamping channels or factory crimps. The interior of the trunk is also well trimmed with black materials, housing the original style yellow jack and full-sized matching brand spare tire.
Offered with a black hardtop, new soft materials for the soft top, a set of top bows and convertible top irons, a small set of tools, miscellaneous spare mechanical parts, a factory yellow jack, service manual, and a Datsun Roadster book.
This attractive Datsun 1600 Roadster offers the next owner very pleasing, refreshed cosmetics thoughtfully applied to a well-cared for original example. This is an ideal driver level car, being cosmetically and mechanically sound such that the new owner will have no hesitations about driving and enjoying it just as originally intended.
Please contact Jason Harris at +1-206-355-7727 for more information on this 1966 Datsun 1600 Roadster.
