Nissan cars from the 1970s performed well and held up over time. You could find them at work sites, school lots, and neighborhoods across the country. They didn’t sit in garages or showrooms. People used them. Every day. For years.
They weren’t built for show — they were built to last. Drivers didn’t spend weekends fixing them. They didn’t need to. The engines stayed strong. The handling stayed clean. The design made sense.
That reputation grew. Nissan built machines that worked, and people noticed.
In this article, you’ll see how these vehicles met real demands. You’ll learn which models led the way. You’ll see how the company’s engineering changed what people expected from a car in that era. And why many still value them today.
What You’ll Learn Here
Before we get into the whole story, here’s what you’ll take away from this article:
Which 1970s Nissan models delivered strong performance, and why they mattered then
How Nissan’s engineering in the '70s helped build its long-term reputation
What makes these vehicles valuable to collectors and drivers today
Summary
The 1970s were a defining decade for Nissan, marked by a surge in global reputation for both performance and reliability. This era saw Nissan respond to changing market demands, including stricter emissions regulations and the 1973 oil crisis, by producing fuel-efficient, durable, and innovative vehicles that would cement its status as a major automotive force.
Performance Highlights
Nissan Z-Car Series (240Z, 260Z, 280Z): The launch of the Datsun 240Z (Fairlady Z in Japan) in 1969, for the 1970 model year, revolutionized the affordable sports car market. It featured a 2.4L inline-six engine producing 151 hp (SAE gross), independent suspension, and rear-wheel drive, offering performance on par with more expensive European rivals. Later iterations, such as the 260Z and 280Z, increased engine displacement and improved emissions compliance, maintaining the Z’s reputation for spirited driving and robust engineering.
Datsun 510: The Datsun 510 sedan and coupe were celebrated for their combination of performance, handling, and practicality. With independent rear suspension and a lively four-cylinder engine, the 510 became a motorsport legend, winning SCCA Trans-Am championships in the early 1970s.
Datsun 620 Pickup: The Datsun 620 pickup, introduced in the mid-1970s, gained a reputation for its ruggedness and reliability. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine was simple, robust, and easy to maintain, making the 620 a favorite for both work and recreation.
Cherry (100A): The Datsun Cherry (E10, later F10 in the US) was Nissan’s entry into the supermini segment. It featured front-wheel drive, all-independent suspension, and It earned a reputation for ‘Swiss watch precision’ in its drivetrain. The Cherry was praised for its perky acceleration, economy, and reliability, despite being prone to rust.
Reliability and Engineering
Fuel Efficiency and Durability: Nissan’s focus on fuel economy became a central selling point during the oil crisis. The Datsun B210, for example, achieved up to 50 mpg on the highway in its “B210 Plus” edition, an outstanding figure for a carbureted car of the era. Across the range, Nissan vehicles were renowned for their low-cost maintenance, mechanical simplicity, and longevity.
Robust Engines: The Nissan L-series engines (inline-four and inline-six) powered many of the brand’s most successful models. These engines were renowned for their reliability, versatility, and ease of maintenance, which contributed to Nissan’s reputation for building cars that could withstand high mileage and challenging conditions.
Production Milestones: To meet soaring demand, Nissan expanded production with new plants and surpassed 20 million units produced by 1977, a testament to the global trust in its vehicles’ reliability and value.
Legacy
Nissan’s 1970s lineup, anchored by the Z-cars, the 510, the Cherry, and the 620 pickup, offered a blend of performance, efficiency, and dependability that resonated with drivers worldwide. The company’s engineering innovations and focus on real-world usability have set benchmarks for Japanese automakers, helping establish Nissan as a leader in both everyday and enthusiast vehicles.
How Nissan Changed the Game in the 1970s
In the 1970s, Nissan worked through a changing market. Gas prices spiked. New emissions rules came in. Other carmakers cut corners or struggled to adjust. Nissan didn’t step back. It shifted its focus and began building vehicles that met real-world needs without compromising reliability or performance.
These cars weren’t oversized or loaded with extras. They didn’t need to be. They were compact, practical, and well-built. Nissan didn’t guess at what drivers wanted; it paid attention and delivered. Models from this decade did more than serve a purpose. They set new expectations.
That shift marked a turning point. Nissan went from a rising name to a trusted one. The choices made in that decade continue to influence how the brand is perceived today.
The Global Automotive Landscape of the 1970s
The 1970s brought pressure across the auto industry. Oil prices jumped. Emissions standards tightened. Drivers began prioritizing efficiency over size. Carmakers needed to adapt. Some fell behind. Nissan adjusted fast.
Instead of pushing high-powered luxury, Nissan focused on simpler engineering. It built cars that ran efficiently and lasted longer. Drivers wanted fewer breakdowns and better fuel use. Nissan met that shift with cars that made sense for the time.
By focusing on economy and practicality, Nissan grew its presence in markets like the U.S. It didn’t chase trends. It built trust. That steady approach helped the company hold its ground while others struggled.
Breakout Performance Icons of the Era
Nissan's strength in the 1970s came from several distinct models. Each one played a role in building its reputation for durability and innovative design.
Nissan Z-Car Series: 240Z, 260Z, 280Z
The Datsun 240Z came out in 1970. It had a 2.4-liter inline-six engine and rear-wheel drive. With 151 horsepower (SAE gross) and independent suspension, it handled smoothly and accelerated with confidence. Drivers compared it to European sports cars, which cost significantly more.
In the years that followed, the 260Z and 280Z refined the design. They added engine size and adjusted for emissions rules without weakening the drive. The 280Z introduced fuel injection, making it more reliable and better suited to meet tighter regulations. Interior updates provided drivers with more comfort without compromising its sporty appeal.
These models made sports cars practical. They gained popularity among both enthusiasts and younger drivers seeking performance without the high cost. They helped reshape how U.S. buyers viewed imported sports cars.
Datsun 510
The Datsun 510 was sold as a sedan and a coupe. A 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine powered it. The independent rear suspension provided smooth handling. Its shape was simple. Its structure was strong.
The 510 didn’t just move well on regular streets. It won races. In the early 1970s, the SCCA Trans-Am series took titles. It earned the nickname "poor man's BMW" because it offered performance at a lower cost. The car became a favorite among amateur racers and still appears at vintage racing events.
This car mattered because it brought motorsport-level design to everyday buyers. It helped Nissan build trust with drivers who wanted sharp handling and solid build quality in a low-cost package.
Datsun 620 Pickup
The 620 pickup was introduced to the market in the mid-1970s. It had a 2.0-liter engine and a setup that handled rough use. It came with options like front disc brakes and a five-speed manual transmission in small trucks at the time.
Buyers could also opt for a more extended cab. That extra room made the 620 useful for more than just hauling. With its high ground clearance and robust suspension, it performed well on job sites and dirt roads. It found favor with small business owners and drivers in rural areas.
Its impact was clear: it helped set expectations for compact pickups. It strikes a balance between size, power, and price. It laid the groundwork for future small-truck designs.
Datsun Cherry (100A)
The Cherry was Nissan's first front-wheel-drive car. It came with all-independent suspension and a drivetrain that felt tight and well-made. It moved quickly for its size and made clever use of fuel.
It came in multiple shapes: a two-door coupe, a four-door sedan, and a hatchback. That gave it flexibility in crowded urban areas. The dash was easy to read. Controls were simple. It ran smoothly with minimal maintenance, although some models experienced issues with rust.
This car filled a gap. It met the needs of city drivers who wanted a vehicle that was small, efficient, and dependable. It gave Nissan an entry in a fast-growing segment during a time of fuel concerns and space limits.
Each of these vehicles had a purpose. Each one worked for the moment it was built. Together, they helped define what Nissan meant in the 1970s.
Restoring A 1970s Nissan
Reviving a 1970s Nissan requires careful planning and attention to detail. These cars are old enough to show wear in every system. Start with the basics and work forward.
Body and structure
Rust usually hides in rocker panels, under carpets, and around wheel wells. Frame rust is harder to fix. Always check door and hood gaps. Uneven spacing may indicate frame damage or sagging caused by corrosion.
Engine and drivetrain
L-series engines are rebuildable and straightforward. Before teardown, run a compression test. If it's low, inspect valve seals, piston rings, and gaskets. Clean or replace carburetors. Fuel tanks often rust inside. Replace hoses and inspect the fuel pump.
Manual transmissions often need new synchros and bushings. If the clutch feels weak or the pedal is high, replace it with a complete clutch kit. Driveshaft joints and rear differentials may need service.
Interior
New foam improves both seat support and comfort. Replace or dye worn panels. Carpet kits are available and easy to install. Add insulation underneath for heat and noise control. Dash pads crack from sun damage, but replacement caps or complete panels are still made.
Documentation and parts sourcing
Keep a binder or digital log. Save receipts. Take photos during each stage. Join forums and owners' groups. Parts are still out there if you know where to look:
The Z Store (for Z-cars)
Datsun Garage
RockAuto (for basics)
eBay and Facebook groups for harder-to-find items
Where To Buy
Finding the right project car depends on timing and patience. Most listings appear online. Some come from word of mouth. Choose based on condition and records, not just price.
Focus on cars from drier areas. Less rust means less repair. Ask for underbody photos, engine bay pictures, and close-ups of common rust spots.
Trusted places to check:
Bring a Trailer (auctions)
Facebook Marketplace (local deals)
Craigslist (older listings)
Forums like Ratsun.net
Datsun-specific Facebook groups
Talk to sellers. Ask when it last ran. Ask what’s been replaced. Check if the title is clean. If the car is far, consider hiring a local inspector before making an offer.
Stay connected to the community. Good deals move fast, but consistent buyers often get the first call.
The Legacy Today
Collectors and restorers now value these models. Their appeal comes from more than just nostalgia. They still run well. They still handle with confidence. And they still turn heads.
Owners restore them by choice — not necessity. Parts remain available. Communities stay active. These cars represent a time when thoughtful engineering met real-world needs. That keeps their legacy intact.
Moving a vintage Nissan takes more than loading it on a truck. Here’s what to know when transporting a classic car.
Final Thoughts: Why 1970s Nissan Cars Still Matter
With engineering rooted in real-world performance and mechanical resilience, these cars proved that innovation doesn’t have to come at a premium.
Whether it’s the racing roots of the 510, the timeless appeal of the 240Z, or the workhorse grit of the 620 pickup, 1970s Nissan vehicles remain benchmarks for reliability and character. More than nostalgic icons, they are lasting testaments to excellent design for collectors, restorers, and enthusiasts alike.
Before arranging transportation, it is helpful to understand how the right carrier protects your restoration investment. Read how to preserve your car's long-term value.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What car did Nissan stop making?
Nissan has phased out several models over time. One of the most well-known is the Datsun 240Z, which evolved into the 280ZX and ultimately became part of the modern Z series. Other discontinued models include the Nissan Cube and the Nissan Xterra.
What does Nissan mean in Japanese?
Nissan is short for "Nihon Sangyo," which means "Japan Industries." The name came from the company’s original holding group, formed in the 1930s.
What is the slogan of Nissan?
Nissan's global slogan has been "Innovation that excites." It's used to emphasize their focus on technology and driving performance.
Why did Nissan change from Datsun?
Nissan began rebranding Datsun vehicles under the Nissan name in the early 1980s to unify its global identity. The transition helped consolidate branding across markets and simplify corporate strategy.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute professional advice or endorsement. Always consult a qualified mechanic or restoration expert before making major repairs or investments.
