1960 was the first year for the Datsun Fairlady sports car and only the second year Datsun vehicles were imported to the U.S. A total of 228 were produced in 1960 and 1961 and this 1960 Datsun Fairlady 1200 Roadster was the 206th car built. It was an export only vehicle and all were left hand drive. It marked the beginning of Datsun's sport car program in the U.S.
The car is powered by an 1189 cc OHV 4-cylinder engine developing 48 horsepower. It was originally owned by a U.S. Air Force pilot who had it painted blue but otherwise the car remains original.
Datsun vehicles entered the 1961 Pomona Sports car races. It was the first time a Japanese sports car that was sold in America appeared in a U.S. auto race. Nine years later Datsun produced the 240Z and it became one of the most successful sports car in history.
Engine and Performance
- Engine: The 1960 Datsun Fairlady 1200 Roadster was powered by a 1.2-liter (1,189 cc) inline-four engine.
- Power: This engine produced approximately 48 horsepower at 5,000 RPM.
- Performance: The Fairlady 1200 was not a powerhouse, but its lightweight construction and nimble handling made it an enjoyable car to drive. It was capable of reaching a top speed of around 75 mph (120 km/h), which was respectable for a small sports car of its era.
Body Style and Design
- Body Style: The Fairlady 1200 Roadster was a two-seat open-top sports car, featuring a simple and elegant design.
- Design: The car’s styling was influenced by British sports cars of the time, with clean lines, a low-slung body, and a prominent front grille. The Roadster’s design was both practical and attractive, embodying a classic sports car aesthetic.
Interior Features
- Interior: The interior of the Fairlady 1200 Roadster was straightforward and functional, with a focus on the driving experience. It featured basic instrumentation, comfortable seats, and a simple dashboard layout.
- Amenities: While not lavishly equipped, the interior offered sufficient comfort and style for a sports car, with features such as a wood-rimmed steering wheel and chrome accents adding to its charm.
Technological Innovations
- Innovations: The Datsun Fairlady 1200 Roadster was relatively basic in terms of technology, but it incorporated reliable engineering principles that made it a durable and fun-to-drive vehicle.
- Lightweight Construction: The car's lightweight body contributed to its agile handling and decent performance, making it a nimble roadster.
You may purchase a print of the 1960 Datsun Fairlady 1200 Roadster in our dElegance 2018 online gallery.
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