Still Running Strong: 1964 Datsun 1200 Pickup

Nissan entered the U.S. market with products carrying the Datsun nameplate. That practice would continue through 1986, after which Datsun became Nissan on stateside products. Small pickups were part of the mix. Including the 320 (also known as the 1200) series built from 1961-65. This extended bed edition from 1964 was owned by an officer in the military who took it with him all over the world, as documented by all the stickers it wears. In running condition, it’s now located in Mendocino, California, and is available here on eBay. The opening bid of $2,500 has yet to be cast. Barn Finder Larry D comes up with another great tip!

The 320/1200 were an evolution of the earlier 120/220 trucks, now sporting sheet metal that resembled the 310 automobiles. These trucks used an A-arm torsion bar front suspension with leaf springs at the back and were rated at a 1/2-ton load capacity. They used a 1.2-liter inline-4 engine with a 4-speed manual transmission that was rated at 60 hp in the U.S.

As we mentioned, the truck runs but the engine has to be started with a hand crank just like the days of old. The rare hand crank rod is inserted through the front bumper to connect to the motor. We’re told the truck is original, which implies that even the paint is the same as it left the factory in Japan 58 years ago. So, the wheels, hub caps, and both bumpers date back to the time of production. The seller says everything works, like the lights, turn signals, heater, and gauges (except the one for fuel).

The body looks a bit rough with some dents and dings and maybe some rust that may or may not have already been doctored. The buyer will receive the truck’s original California and Panama Canal license plates. It would be a shame to repaint this vehicle because you’d lose all the stickers it picked up from all the places it’s been around the world. It even comes with the original Owner’s Manual and Dealer Service Manual, the latter being a rare find if you can locate one.