1969 Datsun 2000

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

To the uniformed, Datsun roadsters (the collective nickname for all models in the U.S.) are just Japanese MGB copies, but Datsun actually pre-dated the introduction of the MGB by several months, so any styling similarities are coincidental. And whereas the performance of the MGB began to slide downward post-1967, it was just the opposite for Datsun. 

Produced by Nissan, Datsun roadsters are more “cute” than handsome, with a small hood scoop and stacked taillights. And while the majority of them out there are the smaller displacement 1500 and 1600 models, the 2000 become available in mid-1967 — and the difference was pronounced. Where the 1600’s 1.6-liter (1600cc) inline-four engine provided around 90 horsepower, the 2000’s robust 2.0-liter mill, designated as the U20, offered 135 horses out of the box, and more could be had with a factory tuning kit. It was a legitimate stoplight sleeper. 

In addition to its larger engine, the 1969 Datsun 2000 (known in Japan as the Datsun Fairlady 2000) featured a five-speed manual transmission, a rarity among the four-speed sports cars of the era. It’s no wonder then that it was not only a popular choice among enthusiasts but also racers, and it became a natural competitor on the SCCA circuit. 

Highlights 

• Finished in bright blue paint with black convertible top over black vinyl interior 

• Powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four engine rated at 135 horsepower 

• Five-speed manual transmission 

• Recent maintenance/upgrades include: 

  • Transmission fluid leak repaired 

  • Rear axle seals replaced 

  • Shoulder belts installed 

  • Volvo calipers installed on front brakes 

  • High torque starter installed 

• The chassis number (SRL31107380) decodes as: 

  • S – Datsun Sports 

  • R – 2.0-liter U20 engine 

  • L – Left-hand drive 

  • 311 – 2000 Roadster 

  • 07380 – Sequential production number 

Features 

• Hood scoop 

• Roll bar 

• New quad taillights, thermostat, and water temperature sending unit in 2017 

• New distributor and heater control in 2015 

• 140 mph speedometer/odometer, 8000 rpm tachometer, and gauges for water temperature, oil pressure, amps, and fuel 

• Vertical AM radio 

• Analog clock 

• 14-inch steel wheels with chrome hubcaps 

• Kumho Power Star 758 175/70R14 84T tires 

Known Imperfections 

• Rust and paint chipping on roll bar 

• Small dent on lower side edge of rear passenger fender 

• Paint imperfections on lower/underside rear fenders 

• Chrome is peeling/surface rust on driver’s side of rear bumper 

• Paint blister on top of driver's side rear quarter 

• Steering wheel is cracked and paint chipped 

• Clock does not work 

Included 

• Spare tire 

• Jack 

• Fire extinguisher 

• Replacement brake shoes 

• Replacement hose 

• Datsun Sports Repair and Service Manual 

• Floor mats 

• Service receipts 

Ownership History 

The Pennsylvania owner of this 1969 Datsun 2000 bought the car in November 2015. It was restored in Kansas in 2010 by its previous owner.