Outlined below is a brief overview and history of the Datsun B210 nameplate. We also quickly highlight some of the key features and specs.
Classic Datsun B210: Overview & History
The Datsun B-210 is the North American nameplate for the 3rd & 4th generation Nissan Sunny. It become very popular quickly with Americans due to the gas crisis of the early 1970s.
Although not as large as the compact Bluebird and Datsun 510 models, the B-series Sunny cars got progressively larger throughout the years. The 3rd generation B210 remains classified as a subcompact car and boasts up to 50 MPG.
It was available in three distinct body styles with multiple variations. See our Body Styles page for more detailed information, pictures and availability.
There is a pretty clear distinction in look between early 3rd generation (1973-1978) B210s and later model B310s that were still marketed as 210s in North America.
Datsun B210 “Honeybee”
The Datsun Honeybee is a highly collectible limited edition model of the B210 that was released in North America.
A similar edition called the Datsun SSS was released in New Zealand and Australia. Despite only minor cosmetic changes, these are some of the rarest B210s on the market. Learn more about the Datsun Honeybee. on our page dedicated to it.
Datsun B210 History
The B210 arrived to the American market during the gas crisis of the 1970s and rose to popularity quickly due to its fuel economy and affordability. This was a continued traditional for the Sunny line as it was the most fuel efficient vehicle in North America at the time while also being one of the cheapest cars to buy new. It was brought to market as an entry level car and was inexpensive to manufacture because it was light weight, featured small OHV four cylinder engines and basic interiors.
A unique element about the United States B210s, is that they featured a larger bumper to meet US safety standards. This increase the car length by over 5 inches from other B210s produced for other markets.
The low cost, high fuel efficiency (50mpg) combined with the attractive body styles, made the Datsun B210 a hit with consumers. Surprisingly though, this generation of Datsun B-Series were criticized around the world for not having improved much over the previous model. Regardless the B210 chassis would be used to create the S10 chassis and the Nissan Silvia series which was a popular drifting and rally car that ended in the 90s with the Nissan Silvia S15.
Today the Datsun B210 is fairly rare and thus collected and/or restored car by enthusiasts. Parts are readily available both on eBay and used on Craigslist. Check out our parts page for the major Datsun B210 parts categories.
Key Facts, Features & Specifications
Manufactured by Nissan
Made From 1973 to 1983
- [1973 – 1977] : 1st Phase (Sunny 3rd Generation)
- [1978 – 1982] : 2nd Phase (Sunny 4th Gen AKA B310 & B11)
Worldwide Nameplates
- Nissan Sunny
- Datsun B-210
- Datsun 120Y
- Sunny Yue Loong 301
Body Styles
– Two (2) Door Hatchback Coupe
– Two (2) & Four (4) Door Sedan
– Three (3) & Five (5) Door Station Wagon
Vehicle Layout
– Front Engine
– Rear Wheel Drive
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Drivetrain
Engines
- 1.2 L A12 I4
- 1.3 L A13 I4
- 1.4 L A14 I4
- 1.4 L L14 I4
- 1.6 L L16 I4 (ZA only)
- 1.6 L L16T I4 (ZA only)
Transmissions
– Three (3) Speed Manual
– Four (4) Speed Manual
– Five (5) Speed Manual
– Three Speed Automatic
Dimensional Specs
- Wheelbase: 92.1 in
- Length: 155.5 in 160.6 in
- Width: 60.8 in
- Height: 53.5 in
- Curb weight: 2,000 lb
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