1968 Datsun 1600

Delivered on November 14, 1968 by Harco Motors of Goldsmith Street in Goulburn, this 1968 Datsun 1600 (P510) is a true survivor car that would have to be one of the most original in the country. First delivered to a Mr W.J. Cartwright of Goulburn, he owned the car for most of its lifetime after which point it was handed over to his son when he passed. It was then purchased by another family member approximately 10 years ago before then being acquired by the current owner. It has been driven very sparingly during the past 56 years – the odometer shows a mere 82,000 miles – and is only being sold due to the owner downsizing his Datsun collection.

Fans of the Datsun marque will know that the very first of the P510s were model year 1968 and this particular example is a very early matching-numbers car: chassis P510-029538 and engine L16-80719. In the words of the owner, it “drives like a new car with no rattles or squeaks” and presents splendidly in its original Lotus White paint (colour code LZ) with rare red interior. And being the 1968 model, it has the distinctive instrument cluster that was unique to that model year as well as its “clap hands” windscreen wipers. It is because of these features that the 1968 is the most desirable of all model years during the production run.

When released in Australia, the overhead-camshaft engine delivered 71.5kw and quickly gained notoriety for its ability to rev. In fact, it had a final-drive ratio so tall that when revved past 6,000rpm on a long, downhill run – such as Conrod Straight – the Datsun 1600 was capable of easily exceeding 100mph. Not only was it a formidable circuit racer but in the forest as well, with the "Datto 1600" widely considered one of the icons of rallying alongside Ford Escorts, the Datsun 180B and Stanza.

The Datsun has recently been fitted with a new, factory specification exhaust system and benefits from a new carburettor kit. Aside from this, the car presents in original condition throughout and would have to be one of the most authentic Datsun 1600s on the road today. All delivery documentation, books and service history will be included with the sale. It is currently on club registration which is not transferrable however it will be sold with a roadworthy certificate should the new owner reside in Victoria.

This is an outstanding example of one of the most iconic Japanese cars from the late 1960s and you would be hard-pressed to find a more original Datsun 1600 on the road today.