Datsun Fairlady SR311
The high-revving Japanese roadster that outpaced its European rivals.
- Power
- 135 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.4 s
- Top speed
- 127 mph
- Est. value
- $18k–$65k
About the Datsun Fairlady SR311
The Datsun Fairlady 2000, known as the SR311, was the ultimate evolution of Nissan's 1960s roadster line and a legitimate threat to established British and Italian sports cars. Introduced in 1967, it featured the potent U20 engine and a rare-for-the-time five-speed manual transmission, making it the first Japanese production car to exceed 200 km/h. The 1968 model year introduced a taller windscreen and a safety-oriented padded dashboard to meet US regulations, though it retained the sharp handling and rev-happy character of the earlier cars. It remains a highly respected vintage racer, having dominated SCCA C-Production and D-Production classes for years.
Datsun Fairlady SR311 specs
The Datsun Fairlady SR311 produces 135 bhp (101 kW) and 179 Nm (132 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.4 seconds and has a top speed of 127 mph (205 km/h).
| Make | Datsun |
|---|---|
| Model | Fairlady |
| Generation | SR311 |
| Trim | 2000 |
| Years | 1967–1970 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | Japan |
| Production | About 15,000 built |
| Original price | About $3,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.0-litre SOHC inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,982 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 135 bhp (101 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 179 Nm (132 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.4 s |
| Top speed | 127 mph (205 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 910 kg (2,006 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 148 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 Fairlady SR311 worth?
A typical Datsun Fairlady SR311 is estimated to be worth $18,000 – $65,000 (about £14,000 – £48,000).
Its original price when new was about $3,000.
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 Fairlady SR311 rarity in CarSpot
The Datsun Fairlady SR311 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 51 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 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 Fairlady SR311 fun facts
- The Fairlady 2000 was the first Japanese production car to break the 200 km/h (124 mph) barrier.
- The 1968 model is often called the 'high window' car because the windscreen was raised by two inches to meet new safety standards.
- The Fairlady name was inspired by the Broadway musical 'My Fair Lady' after Nissan's president saw it in New York.
