The 510 is rated by many as one of the best cars that Datsun ever produced. An unassuming vehicle, the Sedan, in both two and four-door form, tasted considerable motorsport success. The Station Wagon variant may not have enjoyed a competition history, but it is extremely versatile while remaining affordable to run and own. This 1971 Wagon underwent restoration a few years ago, still presenting well as a driver-grade vehicle. It features a couple of relatively rare factory options and is set to find a new home. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Datsun listed here on Craigslist in Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada. The seller set their price at $18,500, and it appears that there might be a small amount of wiggle room on that figure for the right person.

Datsun introduced the 510 in 1968, with cars remaining in production until 1973. Potential buyers could initially choose from two body styles, although a third, the two-door Sedan, enjoyed a brief stint in North American showrooms. This Station Wagon left the factory in 1971, ordered by its first owner in Code 820 Red. The seller indicates that they have been its custodian since 2018, with the vehicle undergoing restoration while under the care of a previous owner. That means that at least seven years have passed since the work was completed, and the lack of deterioration suggests that the build was performed to a high standard. The paint shines nicely, the panels are straight, and the seller indicates that the Wagon is generally rust-free. I’m not sure what they mean by that, but it would definitely be worth checking areas like the rockers and floors to ensure that these areas are solid. The Datsun recently received a new windshield and seal, with the remaining glass appearing to be in good order. The bright trim is excellent, and the beautiful Hayashi Street wheels were refurbished in 2019.

Datsun produced its L-Series engine range in so many versions that it would make your head spin. I’ve always rated these as great motors, and my extensive experience with them has led me to believe that they are almost unbreakable. Valve stem seals can deteriorate with age, and timing chains will eventually stretch and rattle, but I’ve seen these things clock over 300,000 reliable miles while receiving nothing beyond routine maintenance. The 1,595cc L16 version hiding below this Wagon’s hood should send around 96hp and 100 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. Those owners who don’t focus on complete originality could bolt in a five-speed from the later 610 range, giving the vehicle longer legs on the open road. The seller indicates that this beauty runs and drives well, but there are a couple of tasks requiring attention. A new upper radiator hose is required, and the rear brakes could use attention. However, the parts cache that forms part of the deal will include the components to ensure the brakes work perfectly.

Black vinyl was the most popular trim choice throughout most of the 510’s production life, and this Wagon continues that trend. Its overall presentation is tidy for a vehicle of this vintage, with no major wear or other issues. Apart from a factory AM radio, it features a couple of desirable options. The clock isn’t that rare, but the same can’t be said for the center console that graces the inside of this vehicle. I’m unsure whether the console lid is wrinkled or if it might be developing splits. We can only hope that it’s the former, because locating a replacement could be quite challenging. One item requiring attention is the ignition switch, because the tumblers are sticking. I had no trouble locating replacement switches during a brief online search, and installing one of those would permanently eliminate the issue.

I have lost count of how many cars I have owned over the years, but the list includes a couple of Datsun 510s. Both were Sedans, but I always wanted a Station Wagon. However, I never seemed to be in the right place at the right time to find one, and good examples are becoming increasingly rare. This 1971 model looks like a gem, and its needs are quite minor. The seller’s price appears realistic, and considering the strong following that the 510 enjoys, I won’t be surprised if it finds a new home fairly quickly. Are you tempted to make it yours?