1980 Nissan Datsun problems
Datsun (UK: /ˈdætsən/, US: /ˈdɑːtsən/) was a Japanese automobile manufacturer brand owned by Nissan. Datsun's original production run began in 1931. From 1958 to 1986, only vehicles exported by Nissan were identified as Datsun. Nissan phased out the Datsun brand in March 1986, but relaunched it in June 2013 as the brand for low-cost vehicles manufactured for emerging markets. Nissan considered phasing out the Datsun brand for a second time in 2019 and 2020, eventually discontinuing the struggling brand in April 2022.
In 1931, DAT Motorcar Co. chose to name its new small car "Datson", a name which indicated the new car's smaller size when compared to the DAT's larger vehicle already in production. When Nissan took control of DAT in 1934, the name "Datson" was changed to "Datsun", because "son" also means "loss" (損 son) in Japanese and also to honour the sun depicted in the national flag – thus the name Datsun: Dattosan (ダットサン, Dattosan). The Datsun name is internationally well known for the 510, Fairlady roadsters, and the Z and ZX coupés.
History
Origin of Datsun
Before the Datsun brand name came into being, an automobile named the DAT car was built in 1914, by the Kaishinsha Motorcar Works (快進自動車工場, Kaishin Jidōsha Kōjō), in the Azabu-Hiroo District in Tokyo. The new car's name was an acronym of the initials of the company partners:
- Kenjiro Den (Den Kenjirō)
- Rokuro Aoyama (Aoyama Rokurō)
- Meitaro Takeuchi (Takeuchi Meitarō)
Incidentally, datto (how a native Japanese speaker would pronounce "dat") means to "dash off like a startled rabbit" (脱兎), which was considered a good name for the little car. The firm was renamed Kaishinsha Motorcar Co. in 1918, seven years after their establishment and again, in 1925, to DAT Motorcar Co. DAT Motors constructed trucks in addition to the DAT passenger cars. In fact, their output focused on trucks since there was almost no consumer market for passenger cars at the time. Beginning in 1918, the first DAT trucks were assembled for the military market. The low demand from the military market during the 1920s forced DAT to consider merging with other automotive industries. In 1926 the Tokyo-based DAT Motors merged with the Osaka-based Jitsuyo Jidosha Co., Ltd. (実用自動車製造株式会社, Jitsuyō Jidōsha Seizō Kabushiki-Gaisha) also known as Jitsuyo Motors (established 1919, as a Kubota subsidiary) to become DAT Automobile Manufacturing Co., Ltd. (ダット自動車製造株式会社, Datto Jidōsha Seizō Kabushiki-Gaisha) in Osaka until 1932. (Jitsuyo Jidosha began producing a three-wheeled vehicle with an enclosed cab called the Gorham in 1920, and the following year produced a four-wheeled version. From 1923 to 1925, the company produced light cars and trucks under the name of Lila.)
The DAT corporation had been selling full size cars to Japanese consumers under the DAT name since 1914. In 1930, the Japanese government created a ministerial ordinance that allowed cars with engines up to 500 cc to be driven without a license. DAT Automobile Manufacturing began development of a line of 495 cc cars to sell in this new market segment, calling the new small cars "Datson" – meaning "Son of DAT". The name was changed to "Datsun" two years later in 1933.
The first prototype Datson was completed in the summer of 1931. The production vehicle was called the Datson Type 10, and "approximately ten" of these cars were sold in 1931. They sold around 150 cars in 1932, now calling the model the Datsun Type 11. In 1933, government rules were revised to permit 750 cc (46 cu in) engines, and Datsun increased the displacement of their microcar engine to the maximum allowed. These larger displacement cars were called Type 12s.
By 1935, the company had established a true production line, following the example of Ford, and were producing a car closely resembling the Austin 7. There is evidence that six of these early Datsuns were exported to New Zealand in 1936, a market they then re-entered in May 1962. In 1937, Datsun's biggest pre-war year, 8593 were built, with some exported to Australia in knock-down form.
After Japan went to war with China in 1937, passenger car production was restricted, so by 1938, Datsun's Yokohama plant concentrated on building trucks for the Imperial Japanese Army.
When the Pacific War ended, Datsun would turn to provide trucks for the Occupation forces. This lasted until car production resumed in 1947. As before the war, Datsun closely patterned their cars on contemporary Austin products: postwar, the Devon and Somerset were selected. For Datsun's smaller cars (and trucks), such as the DB and DS series, they depended on designs based on the pre-war Austin Seven. The heavier trucks, meanwhile, were based on Chevrolet's 1937 design with an engine of Graham-Paige design. Nissan also built the 4W60 Patrol, based on the Willys Jeep, and the 4W70 Carrier, based on the Dodge M37. Not until January 1955 did Datsun offer a fully indigenous design.
That year, the Occupation returned production facilities to Japanese control, and Datsun introduced the 110 saloon and the 110-based 120 pickup.
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Common 1980 Nissan Datsun problems
Nissan Datsun vehicles from the 1980s, including the 1980 Datsun 310 GX Coupe, are known for their unique design and engineering. However, like any car, they can experience common issues that may affect their performance and reliability.
One of the most common issues with 1980s Datsun vehicles is electrical problems. These cars were equipped with complex electrical systems, including electronic ignition and fuel injection systems. Over time, wiring can become brittle and connections can corrode, leading to issues with starting and running the engine. Fuel system failures are also a potential issue with 1980s Datsun vehicles. These cars were often equipped with carbureted engines or early fuel injection systems, which could be prone to problems such as clogged fuel filters or malfunctioning fuel pumps. These issues can cause poor engine performance, stalling, or even complete engine failure if left unaddressed.
In addition to electrical and fuel system problems, 1980s Datsun vehicles can also suffer from engine performance issues. This can include issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or reduced power output. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including dirty fuel injectors, worn spark plugs, or a malfunctioning engine control module.
Despite these potential issues, 1980s Datsun vehicles remain popular among collectors and enthusiasts. Owners can take steps to address these issues by performing regular maintenance, such as replacing worn or damaged electrical components, fuel system components, and engine components. With proper care and attention, these cars can continue to provide reliable transportation and driving enjoyment for many years to come.
It's important to note that 1980s Datsun vehicles are not immune to rust issues, which can affect the body and structural integrity of the car. Rust can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to road salt, high humidity, and poor maintenance. To prevent rust, owners can take proactive steps such as rust-proofing the body, washing the car regularly, and addressing any signs of rust as soon as they appear.
In summary, 1980s Datsun vehicles can experience common issues such as electrical problems, fuel system failures, and engine performance issues. However, with proper maintenance and care, these cars can continue to provide reliable transportation and driving enjoyment for many years to come. Owners should be aware of potential issues and take proactive steps to address them, such as performing regular maintenance, upgrading electrical and fuel system components, and addressing any signs of rust as soon as they appear.
Why Datsun failed in India?
However, like the Nano, the Datsun brand failed because it only prioritised low-cost motoring which did not appeal to buyers. The Datsun Go was not a success and failed due to its cost-cutting, lack of features plus not being packaged well enough to take on Maruti.
Why did Nissan stop using Datsun?
Ultimately, the decision was made to stop using the brand name Datsun worldwide, in order to strengthen the company name Nissan. "The decision to change the name Datsun to Nissan in the U.S. was announced in the autumn (September/October) of 1981.
Is Datsun a good car?
Excellent car for daily usage, low maintenance cost and a good car for mid-class. I have been driving this car for 3 years, with no expense at all.
What is the mileage of Datsun old model?
Datsun GO Mileage
The GO mileage is 19.02 to 20.63 kmpl. The Manual Petrol variant has a mileage of 20.63 kmpl. The Automatic Petrol variant has a mileage of 19.59 kmpl.
1980 Nissan Datsun car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Nissan Datsun problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1980 Nissan Datsun vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1980 Nissan Datsun complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1980 Nissan Datsun.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-10-24
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CARBURETOR FAILED.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-10-08
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: RIGHT AND LEFT DRIVESHAFTS FAILED. *TW
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-10-24
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL PUMP FAILED.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1980 Nissan Datsun problems:
buying a 720? - 720 - Ratsun Forums
... 1980 5-speed king cab. I was curious if there are any common problems associated with these trucks that i should pay particular attention to ...
Common problems with a Datsun 280ZX : r/cars
Nov 10, 2015 ... If the engine or transmission has a huge issue it might be cheaper to swap the engine with a better Nissan engine then what the car came with.
1984 Nissan/Datsun 2.4 Truck will not start. Please Help! - 720 ...
I recently purchased a 1984 Nissan/Datsun truck and I drove it home with no problems ... Cars:1980 mx32, 1985 nissan ... Most common problem I have ...
280ZX Common Problems / Checklist for Purchase Inspection ...
Jan 6, 2006 ... probably rust behind it. Joints of the body, rust creeps out round the tail lights. Lift the rear hatch. Look up at the bottom of the hatch.
Common 280ZX Problems? lets discuss | ZCar Forum
Oct 22, 2001 ... A forum community dedicated to Nissan and Datsun Z car owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about performance, modifications ...
Other years of Nissan Datsun
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