Datsun 510
The 'Poor Man's BMW' that revolutionised Japanese car culture.
- Power
- 96 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 13.9 s
- Top speed
- 100 mph
- Est. value
- $10k–$27k
About the Datsun 510
The Datsun 510 is a landmark vehicle that proved Japanese manufacturers could build a sophisticated, driver-focused sedan. Inspired by the BMW 1600-2, it featured advanced engineering for its price point, including a SOHC L-series engine and four-wheel independent suspension. Its lightweight chassis and balanced handling made it a dominant force in SCCA Trans-Am racing and international rallying. Today, it is a cornerstone of the JDM classic scene, prized for its mechanical simplicity and vast tuning potential.
Datsun 510 specs
The Datsun 510 produces 96 bhp (72 kW) and 136 Nm (100 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 13.9 seconds and has a top speed of 100 mph (161 km/h).
| Make | Datsun |
|---|---|
| Model | 510 |
| Trim | 1600 |
| Years | 1967–1973 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Japan |
| Original price | About $2,000 when new |
| Engine | 1.6-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,595 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 96 bhp (72 kW) at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 136 Nm (100 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 13.9 s |
| Top speed | 100 mph (161 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 925 kg (2,039 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 104 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 510 worth?
A typical Datsun 510 is estimated to be worth $9,700 – $27,000 (about £7,200 – £20,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,000.
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 510 rarity in CarSpot
The Datsun 510 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 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 510 fun facts
- The 510 was so successful in racing that it won the SCCA 2.5-litre Trans-Am Championship in both 1971 and 1972, beating established European rivals like Alfa Romeo.
- In its home market of Japan, the 510 was sold as the Datsun Bluebird, while the '510' name was primarily used for the North American market.
- Legendary Nissan executive Yutaka Katayama, known as 'Mr. K', was the driving force behind the 510's development to ensure it met Western performance standards.
