1968-1973 Datsun 510 - Monochrome Cotton T-Shirt

The 1968-1973 Datsun 510 redefined affordable performance by dominating the SCCA Trans-Am Under 2.5-liter championship in 1971 and 1972. It proved that a reliable, lightweight Japanese sedan could outmaneuver prestigious European sports cars on track, establishing a giant-killing reputation.

Power comes from the L16 engine, a 1.6-liter SOHC inline-four featuring a cast-iron block and an aluminum cylinder head. This highly tunable powerplant produces 96 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 100 pound-feet of torque at 3,600 rpm, utilizing a standard two-barrel Hitachi carburetor.

The rear-wheel-drive chassis features a four-speed manual transmission and four-wheel independent suspension, using MacPherson struts up front and semi-trailing arms at the rear. This sophisticated layout provides neutral handling, excellent tire adhesion, and superb cornering stability.

Replacing the Bluebird 411 and later succeeded by the 610, Datsun produced over 300,000 units of the 510 for the North American market. Today, it is highly coveted by vintage racers and collectors who value its ease of modification, strong aftermarket support, and engaging driving dynamics.