We’re in love: 1978 Datsun 200SX five speed

We’ve thought of this car as “so ugly it’s cool” ever since a friend down the street had one very similar to today’s subject car.  These days, the styling is growing on us in its own weird way, plus it’s clear that the F10 will always be the ugliest Datsun (barring anything new out of India).  Regardless, every 240SX enthusiast has to respect this car as the first mass-produced Nissan Sylvia.  If you can get past the exterior and live axle rear suspension, you’ll find appealing rear wheel drive and a very cool dash.  We also like the seat cloth in this example, and we’re pleased to see a tach.

This is the cleanest example we’ve seen since these were new.  We’ve been looking for a good one to feature, but most are,well, pieces of shit.  It’s great to see what appears to be a low-mileage, mostly original car in such good shape.  Naturally, we want it and it will be interesting to see what the market says and whether the reserve price agrees.

Does anyone have an empty slot on a hauler going from NY  to CA in the next couple weeks??


Click for eBay ad
Plainview, NY
$2,500 with one bid and reserve not met
09/02/2013 update:  Ended at $3,550 with seven bids and reserve NOT metd

This view reveals the weirdest elements of this car’s styling.  that’s a lot of metal… Did the Murano get its rear quarter window styling from this?

Straight-on rear view isn’t so bad.  This is where the F10 hatch wins on ugly…

Menacing front view would surely be intimidating in one’s rear view mirror.

This doesn’t look like a bad place to spend some time, and the cloth is groovy.

We love this dashboard!  It’s very sporty and functional.  The low-mounted clock is also an interesting touch.

These weren’t popular with the mob…

Tidy engine compartment has only been slightly molested and the seller indicates the original carb is included.

Ad text:

1978 Datsun 200SX 5 Speed Sport Coupe
Cherry Red / very rare car/ lots of interest in car at shows.
Runs and drives great, upgraded carburetor, original 52k miles. ( original carburetor included with sale )
No Rust, No Rips, Interior / Exterior Excellent / Only flaw is crack in paint right front fender.
Great gas mileage

Car recently used by film company for an ad with a major company.  They paid $550 for the day to take photos with the car.  Buyer will get the photos and contact information of the film company.  

Additional items included with sale, original owners manual, sales brochure, Datsun ads.


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