1970 Datsun 510 for Sale – L18 Five-Speed Race Car
The 1970 Datsun 510 combines compact sedan proportions with a focused specification prepared for vintage competition use. Its red, white, and blue livery is complemented by flared fenders, a front spoiler, and white-finished 13-inch Panasport wheels. The stripped cabin contains a Cobra Suzuka racing seat, roll cage, competition controls, and fire-suppression equipment. A 1.8-liter L18 inline-four, five-speed gearbox, 4.10 limited-slip differential, trunk-mounted fuel cell, dynamometer sheet, and SVRA logbook complete the offering.
View the official listing below.
Engine and Performance
Power comes from a gasoline-fueled 1.8-liter L18 inline-four configured as the mechanical foundation of this competition-oriented Datsun. A five-speed manual gearbox places clutch operation and every ratio change directly under the driver’s control. The limited-slip differential uses 4.10:1 gearing to support responsive acceleration and controlled power delivery through the rear wheels. A supplied dynamometer test sheet offers valuable supporting information for reviewing the engine’s measured performance and current competition specification.
Engineering and Specifications
White-finished 13-inch Panasport wheels wear 205/60 Toyo Proxes RA1 tires that the seller states have been shaved for competition use. Vented front discs use aluminum calipers sourced from an early Porsche 911S, while rear braking is handled by drum assemblies sourced from a Datsun 240Z. A roll cage, fire-suppression system, and trunk-mounted fuel cell add dedicated safety and fuel-delivery equipment to the race-prepared chassis.
Design and Heritage
The red, white, and blue finish gives the compact body a clear competition identity and emphasizes its squared profile and upright cabin. Flared fenders accommodate the broad racing tires, while the front spoiler lowers the visual line of the nose and adds another functional-looking element. Removed road-car trim, race numbers, sponsor graphics, hood pins, and lightweight cabin preparation reinforce the vehicle’s specialized purpose.
Driving Experience
The Cobra Suzuka racing seat positions the driver within the roll cage and directly ahead of the essential competition instruments and controls. A manual shifter, compact dimensions, shaved tires, short differential gearing, and simplified interior create an environment centered on immediate vehicle response. The L18 engine, five-speed gearbox, mixed-source braking system, fuel cell, and safety equipment should be evaluated and operated by someone familiar with historic racing machinery.
Why This Car Is Special
- The 1.8-liter L18 inline-four and five-speed manual gearbox provide a compact, driver-controlled racing powertrain.
- A limited-slip differential with 4.10:1 gears supports rapid acceleration and rear-wheel traction.
- The Cobra racing seat, roll cage, fuel cell, and fire suppression create a competition-focused cabin and safety package.
- Panasport wheels, shaved Toyo tires, flared fenders, and a front spoiler reinforce the vintage racing specification.
- The SVRA logbook and dynamometer sheet provide valuable supporting material connected with its competition history.
Specifications
- Gasoline-powered 1.8-liter L18 inline-four paired with a five-speed manual gearbox.
- Limited-slip rear differential equipped with performance-oriented 4.10:1 gearing.
- Red, white, and blue racing livery with flared fenders and front spoiler.
- White 13-inch Panasport wheels with shaved 205/60 Toyo Proxes RA1 tires.
- Cobra Suzuka seat, roll cage, fuel cell, fire suppression, and SVRA logbook.
Collector and Enthusiast Appeal
Vintage Datsun competition cars attract enthusiasts through their compact dimensions, straightforward mechanical layouts, and distinctive period racing appearance. This example adds an L18 engine, close driver involvement, short gearing, specialized brakes, race safety systems, and documented SVRA participation. Prospective buyers should inspect eligibility, logbook entries, engine condition, dynamometer information, cage construction, fuel-cell age, suppression-system certification, tires, brakes, suspension, and safety equipment before entering any racing or track activity.
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The 1970 Datsun 510 combines an engaging manual drivetrain, focused safety equipment, distinctive racing colors, and documented competition credentials. Its L18 power, short gearing, specialized chassis components, and SVRA logbook make it a compelling prospect for knowledgeable historic-racing participants and collectors.