1969 Datsun 2000 Sports Roadster

Description

Introduced in 1967, the Datsun 2000 Sports roadster was the last example of an open-topped sportscar line that could be traced back to 1959's Sports 1000. The famous Japanese Domestic Market 'Fairlady' name was first used on 1960's Sports 1200 and was noted for being the first of its type to be exported to the USA. From there, things became more serious with the 1963 debut of the Sports 1500. It was significant because its platform was based on the concurrent Bluebird sedan chassis where the previous cars made do with a small truck platform. The 1500 evolved into the 1600 in 1965 before the final 2000 was released. This model line was clearly inspired by the popularity of the open British sportscars of the period, though history shows that the world had not yet come to terms with the virtues of Japanese-built machinery. As such, the Datsun Sports range was a slow-seller when compared to the best of British. In production until 1970, the 2000 was the pick of the series with its powerful OHC 2.0-litre four-cylinder and new-for-2000 five-speed gearbox that could easily out-perform a contemporary MGB. It also looked the part and handled well in comparison. Today, it may live in the shadow of the 'Fairlady' that replaced it- the closed coupe 240Z and its younger descendants- but the Sports roadsters also have a charm all of their own.