Typically 5th digit for body style, followed by model sequence.
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Positioning:
The Datsun 510 (Bluebird) was a highly successful compact car known for its sporty handling, reliability, and affordability, competing with models like the Toyota Corolla, Mazda GLC, and Honda Civic of the era.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors 1979:
Toyota Corolla E30/E50, Mazda GLC (FA4), Honda Civic CVCC, Ford Pinto, Chevrolet Monza.
Key Features
Vehicle Strengths:
Rear-wheel drive platform, independent front suspension, agile handling, durable Z-series engines, practical sedan/wagon/coupe body styles.
Manual Value Proposition
Value:
An indispensable resource for owners seeking to maintain, repair, and preserve their classic Datsun 510, offering significant cost savings over professional repair services.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Engine:
Yes
Transmission:
Yes (Manual & Automatic)
Suspension:
Yes
Brakes:
Yes
Steering:
Yes
Electrical:
Yes (Including Wiring Diagrams)
Bodywork Interior Exterior:
Yes
Emission Control:
Yes
Fuel System:
Yes
Clutch:
Yes
Drivetrain:
Yes (Driveshaft & Axle)
Restraint Systems:
Yes
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Likely between 400-800 pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual).
Manual Type
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual (Factory Equivalent)
Approximately 90-100 hp @ 5000-5500 rpm (market dependent, may vary with emissions controls).
Torque Est:
Approximately 110-120 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 rpm (market dependent).
Fuel System
Carburetion:
Likely a single Hitachi SU-type or Hitachi downdraft carburetor (e.g., Hitachi DCAR).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (as mandated by 1979 emissions regulations)
Cooling System
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (refer to manual for specific mix ratio and type).
Lubrication
Oil Capacity Est:
Approximately 4.0-4.5 US quarts (with filter change).
Oil Viscosity Recommendation:
Typically SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40, depending on ambient temperature (consult manual for precise recommendations).
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
4-speed Manual Transmission (likely JATCO FS5W71B or similar)
Optional
Type:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (likely JATCO 3N71B or similar)
Features
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios will be detailed in the manual, generally offering a good balance for performance and cruising.
Automatic Features:
Torque converter, hydraulic control, likely a 2-speed (low/drive) selector with park.
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90, consult manual for exact specifications).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase Inches:
98.4 inches
Length Inches:
167.9 inches (Sedan)
Width Inches:
64.0 inches
Height Inches:
54.1 inches (Sedan)
Weights
Curb Weight Lbs Est:
Approximately 2200-2400 lbs, depending on body style and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Lbs Est:
Around 3100-3300 lbs.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
As a vehicle from 1979, official crash test ratings (like NHTSA 5-star) were not standardized as they are today. However, the 510 generally featured a robust unibody construction for its time.
Active Features
Active Safety:
Disc front brakes, drum rear brakes, independent front suspension for improved handling stability.
Passive Features
Passive Safety:
Seat belts (lap belts in front, lap belts in rear), reinforced body structure.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Typically an AM/FM radio with an optional cassette player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.
Driver Assistance
Driver Aids:
Basic features for the era: power-assisted front disc brakes (on some models), rear drum brakes. No electronic driver aids like ABS or traction control.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Minimal to none. Vehicles of this era relied on mechanical and analog systems, with the electrical system primarily for basic functions like lighting and ignition.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for exact recommendation.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles for both manual and automatic transmissions, or as specified in the manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles, depending on plug type.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for exact specification).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
If equipped with power steering, consult manual for specific fluid type (likely ATF).
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Rust (especially around wheel wells, rocker panels, and strut towers), carburetor tuning, aging rubber hoses and seals, electrical connections corrosion, worn suspension bushings.
Repair Tips:
Proactive rust prevention and addressing small leaks early can significantly extend the life of the vehicle. Regular cleaning and lubrication of suspension and chassis components are crucial.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Datsun Legacy:
Datsun (later Nissan) built a reputation for reliable, well-engineered, and affordable vehicles, with the 510 being a cornerstone of its global success in the compact segment.
Model Evolution
510 Generations:
The Datsun 510 (first generation, chassis code 410/510) was produced from 1968 to 1973. The 1979 model is part of the second generation, known as the Datsun 510 (often referred to as the 'Sunny' based platform in some markets, though still badged 510 in North America).
1979 Specifics:
The 1979 model year falls into the B310 generation of the Datsun 510, which featured updated styling compared to earlier 510s, often with more angular lines and revised interior.
Production
Production Years:
The B310 510 generation was produced from 1977 to 1981.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Historical Acclaim:
The Datsun 510 (particularly the first generation, but the lineage is relevant) is widely regarded as a 'classic' affordable sports sedan, praised for its handling and performance for the price. It was popular in motorsports, particularly SCCA Trans-Am racing.
Ratings
Reliability Reputation:
Datsun/Nissan vehicles from this period generally had a reputation for good mechanical reliability, though chassis components and bodywork required diligent maintenance due to environmental factors.
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