Description
Issue 21 – 1968 Datsun 1600.
Sold locally as the 1600 but known internationally as the 510, this Datsun brought European-style engineering within reach of the average Australian buyer. Its rear-wheel-drive layout and four-wheel independent suspension, inspired by contemporary sedans like the BMW 1600, paired with a willing overhead-camshaft engine to give it a nimble, well-planted feel well beyond its humble price tag. Assembled locally through to 1972, the 1600 quickly built a reputation for toughness on Australian roads and went on to become a fixture of rallying and touring car racing throughout the 1970s and 80s.
For a collector, the Datsun 1600 marks a pivotal moment in Australian motoring, when Japanese engineering first proved it could match, and beat, the established players on both road and rally stage.
