In the early 1970s, the Datsun 240Z shocked the automotive world with its combination of Japanese build quality and world-class sports car performance at a budget-friendly price point. But for those who were familiar with the brand, the arrival of the 240Z was not a surprise. Datsun had been producing sports cars for the American market for the previous five years, including the Datsun 2000 Roadster.

One of the best examples of the Datsun 2000 Roadster is currently up for sale on Bring a Trailer, and it is a car that represents the best of both British and Japanese sports car engineering. With its zippy 2.0-liter engine and Japanese build quality, the Datsun 2000 Roadster was a formidable competitor on the racetrack, posting numerous class wins in SCCA racing, despite being the cheapest sports car in its division.

Heritage and Design

The Datsun 2000 Roadster was known as the Fairlady overseas, and its heritage can be traced back to the 1950s. The first generation of Fairlady cars arrived in the U.S. in 1960, and while they were attractive, they were not great to drive, as they were based on the Datsun pickup truck. However, the later 1600 Roadster and the 2000 Roadster that followed were entirely different machines. Nissan, the parent company of Datsun, changed to a sedan-based design with an independent front suspension and a well-sorted leaf-spring setup in the rear. The engine was a 1.6-liter OHV four-cylinder, which later got five main bearings for durability. The later 2000 Roadsters saw a displacement bump to 2.0 liters, got a five-speed manual gearbox, and could be ordered with a competition package with dual carburetors. Power was rated as 150 hp SAE gross, quite lively for the 1960s, especially in a car that weighed barely over 2000 pounds.

Racing Success and Rivalries

Along with numerous podium finishes, the Datsun 2000 Roadster was also involved in a little-known rivalry. When Toyota fielded the gorgeous 2000GT in SCCA racing, the cars were supposed to go to Peter Brock’s BRE racing team. However, at the last minute, Carroll Shelby flew to Japan and charmed Toyota execs into giving him the contract instead.

Brock had made a name for himself in Japan by getting a car called the Hino Contessa to perform and win a few races. Hino was snapped up by Toyota in the 1960s and turned to truck production only, namely the Hilux. But the president of Hino was still on good terms with Brock, and he just so happened to have gone to school with the then-president of Nissan. Brock couldn’t get Datsun USA to part with a couple of Roadsters; instead, Brock’s came direct from Japan.

There then followed a game of cat-and-mouse whereby Brock would show up at out-of-California races where Shelby’s 2000GT team was hoping to pick up an easy win or two. The Roadsters were running in a different class, but it was easy enough to hold up the 2000GTs and let the competing Porsches and Triumphs slip by. In the end, the 2000GT team lost the championship, and Toyota slunk home embarrassed.

Driving Experience

The Datsun 2000 Roadster, also known as the Fairlady, offers a thrilling driving experience that combines the best of both British and Japanese sports cars. The open-top design, independent front suspension, and well-sorted leaf-spring rear suspension provide a nimble and responsive ride. The gutsy 2.0-liter engine, with a five-speed manual gearbox, delivers ample power and acceleration that is sure to bring a smile to any driving enthusiast’s face. The competition package with dual carburetors adds an extra level of performance and excitement to the already sporty roadster.

Despite being a vintage sports car, the Datsun 2000 Roadster is surprisingly user-friendly and easy to drive. The controls are responsive, the pedals are well-placed, and the shifter is precise and easy to use. The steering is direct and communicative, and the brakes provide plenty of stopping power. The well-designed cockpit provides excellent visibility and is comfortable for drivers of all sizes.

Overall, driving the Datsun 2000 Roadster is a fun and engaging experience that will transport drivers back to a bygone era of classic sports cars. It’s an excellent choice for those who value a lively driving experience and appreciate the unique blend of Japanese build quality and British sports car design.

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