Description
Datsun Fairlady 1600 | 1968
Highlights:
– 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, paired with a manual gearbox
– SPL311-generation Datsun roadster, sold in Japan as the Fairlady and in North America as the Datsun Sports 1600
– Soft top described by the seller as being in good order
– Fitted with good tyres and wheels, according to the seller
– Car carries a Canadian title from its earlier ownership history
The seller offers for sale this 1968 Datsun Fairlady 1600, powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, paired with a manual gearbox. This SPL311-generation roadster carries a Canadian title from earlier in its ownership history and is now offered for sale in the Netherlands. The seller describes the soft top as being in good order, though the folding-top latches could use a closer inspection, and notes that the car has stood unused for a period of time; it does run, but the carburettors will need cleaning before the car is used regularly. The tyres and wheels are described by the seller as being in good order.
Known in its home market as the Fairlady and sold in North America as the Datsun Sports 1600, the SPL311 was Nissan’s answer to the popular British roadsters of the 1960s, developed independently of, and shown publicly before, direct rivals such as the MGB. Power comes from Nissan’s 1.6-litre R16 four-cylinder engine, fed by twin SU-type carburettors, driving the rear wheels through a manual gearbox. For 1968, the model received a range of federally mandated safety updates, including a taller windscreen with an integrated rear-view mirror, a padded dashboard, flush lifting door handles and revised, non-toggle switchgear, distinguishing the later cars from the earlier, simpler pre-1968 roadsters.
With disc brakes at the front, a light kerb weight and a keen four-cylinder engine, the Datsun roadster earned a reputation for being an involving, well-sorted alternative to its European rivals, while also proving notably more dependable, a trait that helped it rack up numerous SCCA class wins during its production life. Today, clean, usable examples like this one remain an accessible way into 1960s open-top motoring, combining honest mechanical simplicity with genuine period sports car character.
Condition of the bodywork & paint
2 — Fine. Noticeable wear and aging; drives but has issues.
Condition of the interior
2 — Fine. Noticeable wear and aging; drives but has issues.
Technical condition
2 — Fine. Noticeable wear and aging; drives but has issues.
Overall condition
2 — Fine. Noticeable wear and aging; drives but has issues.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
