Datsun 160J 710
The 'Coke-bottle' styled Datsun that conquered the Safari Rally.
- Power
- 72 bhp
- Top speed
- 96 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$12k
About the Datsun 160J 710
Introduced in 1973 as the Nissan Violet in Japan, the 710-series Datsun 160J was designed to bridge the gap between the Sunny and the Bluebird. It is best remembered for its distinctive 'Coke-bottle' fastback styling, which was controversial at launch due to poor rear visibility but has since become a hallmark of 1970s Japanese design. While the road cars were modest family transport, the 710 gained legendary status in motorsport, forming the basis for Datsun's dominance in the Safari Rally. Today, survivors are rare, particularly in the UK, where they were once popular but suffered heavily from corrosion.
Datsun 160J 710 specs
The Datsun 160J 710 produces 72 bhp (54 kW) and 121 Nm (89 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 96 mph (155 km/h).
| Make | Datsun |
|---|---|
| Model | 160J |
| Generation | 710 |
| Trim | 1.6 |
| Years | 1973–1977 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Japan |
| Original price | About $3,600 when new |
| Engine | 1.6-litre naturally aspirated inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,595 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 72 bhp (54 kW) at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 121 Nm (89 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| Top speed | 96 mph (155 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 960 kg (2,116 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 75 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Datsun 160J 710 worth?
A typical Datsun 160J 710 is estimated to be worth $5,000 – $12,000 (about £3,700 – £8,900).
Its original price when new was about $3,600.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Datsun 160J 710 rarity in CarSpot
The Datsun 160J 710 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 23 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Datsun 160J 710 fun facts
- The 710-series was marketed as the Datsun Violet in the UK, but simply as the Datsun 710 in the United States to capitalise on the success of the 510.
- Despite its humble appearance, the 160J was a rally powerhouse, helping Nissan secure four consecutive Safari Rally wins between 1979 and 1982 in its evolved forms.
- Early export models often featured tiny chrome plates on the front wings to cover holes where Japanese-market wing mirrors would have been mounted.
