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Five And Dime Two Door: 1970 Datsun 510

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Recently unearthed after not having been on the road in at least 15 years, this barn find example of Datsun’s little but loved giant-killer is located in Goldendale, Washington. It’s listed for sale here on craigslist for a pricey $8,500–let’s see if you think it’s worth it!

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The plate checks out with the story, as it’s dated 2002. You’d want to attend to the bumper dent I think, and the missing script on the trunk lid as well. The seller claims original paint, but it looks like some touch up at least has been used around the edge of the trunk lid and surround. Anyone else notice the Springer Spaniel standing guard?

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This side looks as nice as the other one, minus one wheel center cap. Here’s hoping it’s in the trunk, but if not, here’s a set of four original full wheel covers for sale at a good price.

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The various shots of the interior don’t show a lot, but this one is the money shot. Both good and bad news, at least as far as I’m concerned. The 44,113 miles is said to be fully documented, so obviously that’s good news. However, that unfortunate PRNDL display means this is an automatic model, said to sap the reasonable power of the little four cylinder.

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The underhood appearance looks really nice here, and also looks bone-stock–except for one important thing. I don’t think the engine compartment is supposed to be black; or at least I couldn’t find many that were online looking at original cars; they all seem to be body color. I question why someone would have to do that to a low mileage car, but maybe a Datsun expert can enlighten me that this is original? In any case, I’m interested in what you folks think about the pricing, especially for an automatic car. Is this too high, or is this “survivor” worth it?

Comments

  1. Avatar Bob S

    Looks to me like someone started their Fast and Furious project with an under hood refresh. I’d love a modded 510.

    Like 0
  2. Avatar JoeV

    Looks like the odometer has been tampered with, Worked at the dealer during this time period and my own datsun shop, Third and fourth digits from the left are
    not in line, dead give away!

    Like 0
  3. Avatar Scotty G
    • Avatar Jamie Staff

      Whoops!!! Scotty, I should have known you would have been on this one!!!

      Like 0
      • Avatar Scotty G Staff

        HA, not at all, Jamie, that was a few months ago! Oddly enough, it’s still for sale, weird. I guess nobody wants an automatic version for $8,500.

        Like 0
  4. Avatar Doug Towsley

    There are better deals out there. However prices keep going up and up so this one is retail or a little above. Some of the details are suspect as well but who knows?
    However, I will point out that Datsuns are excellent at parts swapping and not hard to swap in a 5 speed out of something else, chances are most parts will bolt right up. I have pulled 5 speeds from trucks or later 200SX, You will need the pedal assy as well, but straight fwd mix and match and most parts will fit. Not mentioned but brakes are a serious issue if you hop it up,. Later model discs can be adapted easily or spend the money on aftermarket kits but the economy concious will find a 1980s 200SX will be a satisfactory donor for many key parts. (2L motor, use the L20 head, 5 speed pedals and linkages, disc brakes and other bits and bobs)
    I have a 510 wagon and doing the same thing right now. I have had 6 510s over the years, wagons, 2 doors and 4 doors. All great fun and back in the day affordable. Plus a well sorted datsun will run forever!

    Like 0
  5. Avatar rotag999

    Yes this one has been around the block on craigslist etc for more then a year or more.

    Like 0
  6. Avatar angliagt

    Underhood should be body color.

    Like 1

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