1966 Datsun 1600 Sports

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Imagine a two-seat, inline four-cylinder, lightweight convertible sports car from the 1960s. Likely British, maybe Italian, possibly German… how about Japanese? The Fairlady 1600, better known in North America as the Datsun Sports 1600, was among the more interesting Japanese creations to capture the hearts of sports car enthusiasts. This 1966 model, also known internally as the “SPL311,” features a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine with twin SU carburetor and is mated to a four-speed Synchromesh manual transmission. With input from Count Albrecht von Goertz, the handsome body is finished with features like a surprisingly modern arrangement of coil-sprung, independent front suspension, and rear leaf springs. These Datsun Roadsters, especially a restored example like this, are still a wonderful alternative for anyone looking for something a bit different from your typical vintage sports car.

Highlights

• Finshed in Porsche Guards Red over a black upholstered interior

• The subject of a thorough restoration by Classic Restoration of Bemus Point, New York between 2016 and 2022 with the work completed including:

  • Rebuilt engine with new rings, new camshaft

  • Pertronix ignition with new spark plugs and ignition wires installed September 2022

  • Rebuilt original carburetors, tuned in September 2022

  • Fuel tank was boiled and refurbished

  • Cooling system gone through with refurbishment of the radiator and a new thermostat

  • New exhaust system

  • Rebuilt brakes with stainless steel brake lines

  • A fresh clutch

  • A fresh interior with new leather seat covers, dashboard, and carpeting with insulation

  • Rechromed exterior brightwork

  • A new convertible top

• FItted with a set of “Classic 8” wheels (15 x 6 inches) from VTO Wheels with Datsun center caps

• Fresh Cooper Evolution tires (195/60 R15) installed in the fall of 2022

• VDO dashboard gauges

• The odometer currently displays 48 miles since restoration at the time of cataloging, however the true mileage of this Datsun 1600 Sports is unknown

Features

• Four-speed manual synchromesh transmission

• Hypoid rear differential 3.889:1

• Independent coil spring front suspension 

• Parallel semi-elleptic with telescopic shock absorbers

• Front disc brakes, rear 9 inch drum

• Radio

• Heater

• Vent controls

• Bucket seats

• Safety-Glass Roll-up windows

• Electric windshield wipers

• Windshield washer

• Original “race-type” steering wheel

Known Imperfections

• Window cranks are tight

• The soft top is tight to put up and down

• Horn and back up light swtches were unattainable and therefor both were wired to toggles and buttons under the dash

Included

• Trunk mounted spare tire

• Jack

• Lug nut wrench

• Restoration extras include a new spare front fender, new front splash panel, original radio, and box of assorted parts

• Manuals and restoration receipts

Ownership History

Found in a Erie County, New York field in 1984 with Colorado license plate by the consignor, the first 10-plus years of ownership were devoted to the initial stages of the frame up restoration: a body acid bath, bodywork, protective prime, and parts accumulation throughout the early 1990s. Garage kept, the consignor then brought the car to Chautauqua County, New York with them and entrusted the remainder of the restoration to Classic Restoration of Bemus Point, New York. A second move, this time to Florida, saw final work completed to the car at Z Cars of Ocala, Florida prior to consignment with invoices and receipts available for online review and download.

Sales Tax Notice to Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia Bidders:  Because this car is located in Florida, Hagerty Marketplace may be required to collect and remit Florida sales tax on your purchase, even if you plan to register it outside of Florida.  Unlike most other states, the states of Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia may not provide a full credit against sales taxes paid to Florida.  For additional information, please consult this publication and your own tax advisor regarding sales taxes applicable to cars located in Florida that are sold to residents of another state.

Optional vehicle service contract available for $1,000. Learn more about the program here. *Sales tax may be applicable.