We all like to do our bit to help those less fortunate than ourselves, and this is typically a selfless act. However, this 1970 Datsun Sports 2000 offers the chance to make such a contribution and drive away in an iconic Japanese classic. It presents well following some specialist restoration work, has received a range of recent mechanical TLC, and every cent from its sale will go to charity. The seller has listed the Datsun here on eBay in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. They set their BIN at $21,988 with the option to make an offer.
Datsun introduced the First Generation of its “Sports” series in 1959, but serious production didn’t commence until 1960. The company took the covers off its Second Generation at the 1961 Tokyo Motor Show, but as with its predecessor, there was a significant delay before it hit the showrooms in August 1963. It evolved through the 1960s, with the final update performed in 1968 before production ended in 1970. Our feature car is a final-year example finished in White. The seller indicates that it received previous restoration work by specialists JDM Legends, of Salt Lake City, Utah. It is unclear how extensive the work was, but the Datsun’s tidy presentation suggests it received plenty of cosmetic TLC. The paint shines beautifully, the panels are laser-straight, and there is no evidence of rust or other potentially nasty surprises. We receive no information on the presence or condition of the soft-top, but the trim and glass are spotless. The alloy wheels are a later addition, and will undoubtedly divide opinion about whether they should stay or go.
As the model designation suggests, this Datsun derives its power from a 2.0-liter four, teamed with a five-speed manual transmission. Power and torque figures of 135hp and 132 ft/lbs don’t suggest exciting performance, although the curb weight of a mere 2,116lbs allows these cars to be quite lively. However, this one may offer more to potential buyers. The carburetors appear to be upgraded Mikuni units found on the Competition variant. If combined with the performance camshaft, the power and torque could rise to 150hp and 138 ft/lbs. Purists will be disappointed to learn that this classic is not numbers-matching. Those seeking a turnkey vehicle will welcome the news that the car features a new engine, clutch, transmission, wiring, stainless mufflers, and a wide range of new brake components. It appears that all the buyer needs to do is slip behind the wheel, hit the key, and drive off into the sunset.
The interior may provide one of this Datsun’s few faults or flaws. The dash top appears cracked on the passenger side. The crack seems relatively shallow and might be a candidate for restoration, rather than replacement. The new owner could hand it to a professional, or attempt a DIY approach with a product like Polyvance. Finding a replacement may prove challenging, although a high-quality cap for under $200 is another alternative. Otherwise, there is little to criticize. The Red vinyl upholstered surfaces are excellent, the bright trim is in good condition, and there are no visible carpet issues. Datsun focused on the driving experience, placing the tachometer directly in front of the driver. The only aftermarket addition is a wheel wrap, and the factory AM radio is said to work as it should.
This 1970 Datsun Sports 2000 is a wonderful little Japanese Roadster promising an entertaining and engaging driving experience. The seller’s BIN figure seems reasonable for a car of this caliber, and the fact that the sale proceeds will go to charity offers the opportunity to own a classic car while helping others. That sounds like a win/win situation to me, but is it enough to tempt you to pursue it further?
Izzat a vintage Sooby lurking behind the Datsun?
One of the best examples of the 2000 l’ve ever seen. I have driven them, helped restore one, and raced against a couple and still wonder why l never bought one. Only thing I’d do for this one is replace the dash pad and drive it.
What charity gets the proceeds?
Is it worth the price? I don’t know. But I have one in my garage set up the same way. Rally cam, headers, upgraded brakes. Keep it above 3000 rpm and it is scary fast. Lots of drivability upgrades such as 4-runner brakes. I’ve spent more than this purchase price. I heard advice once that if you want one of these, buy the best one available. This might be it. Mine looks rough, but when the original owner visited it last year and drove it in a drizzle, he brought it back with emotional tears in his eyes. He wants it back. I have done nothing body-wise and he said he remembers every ding and dent and the stories behind them. It’s almost time to start the transfer.
You might want to check the registration, I believe that it is a 1969 model. I own one and the side marker lights are different from the 69 to 70.
I don’t know much about these cars I think it would be a fun little toy to have and I know where there are two of them sitting in a apartment complex parking lot rotting away I’ve never walked up to them to see how far gone they are my guess is they belong to the owner of the apartments is why they haven’t towed off yet
That’s exactly how I got my first one. Cost me $800 which was more than it was worth. It was expensive rust.
I’ve always wondered why the turn signal stalk is on the wrong (right/inner) side of the steering column. And yeah, the RHD JDM version is on the wrong side too…
I had a RHD Fairlady Z for a while in the ’90s (JDM 280Z) and the turn signal stalk was on the right. Likely Nissan didn’t bother using different column and switch assemblies for LHD countries early on.
Which side of the steering column the stalks end up on in RHD countries seems to vary. In Japan the turn signal stalk is usually on the right but in cars of European manufacture adapted for export to the British Isles it’s often on the left.
If you want a 2000. this is the ride! As mentioned above, this is a hell of a lot of fun. Good luck.
Who is the charity that benefits?
I believe that this is a 1969 Datsun roadster. 1969`s have the tear drop side marker lights and 1970`s have a square side marker light. I own a 69 Roadster.
Beautiful car, looks like a good restoration. I’d like a look underneath, but I can’t imagine it wouldn’t look much the same as the topside.