1967-1970 Datsun Roadster 2000 Cotton T-Shirt

The 1967-1970 Datsun Roadster 2000 shattered the British monopoly on affordable sports cars by delivering reliable, high-revving performance that dominated SCCA production racing. It secured multiple national championships, proving that Japanese engineering could outrun and outlast Europe's best.

At the heart of this performance was the U20 engine, a 1,982 cc SOHC inline-four. Equipped with dual Hitachi-SU carburetors, it produced 135 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. An optional competition package with twin Solex carburetors bumped output to 150 horsepower, a remarkable figure for a 2.0-liter.

Power reached the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, a rare luxury for the era. Built on a stiff box-section frame, the chassis featured independent front A-arms and a solid rear axle with leaf springs. This setup provided flat cornering and high-speed stability on both track and highway.

With roughly 14,500 units produced, the 2000 is highly prized by collectors today as a pure driver's car. It replaced the underpowered 1600 Roadster and paved the way for its successor, the 240Z. Today, it remains a staple in vintage racing, celebrated for its durability and balanced dynamics.