The Datsun: A Classic for Roadster Restoration

Here at Customs & Hot Rods of Andice, it's fair to say that we have a partiality for classic American-made cars. A quick look at our project car gallery shows all manners of Detroit-based classic Fords and Chevys. But that doesn't mean there aren't some gorgeous vintage cars and roadsters built elsewhere, well worth a look at when it comes to choosing a roadster restoration project. For those automotive enthusiasts looking to find a rare and unique model and to use restoration to bring a piece of automotive history back to life, then one model worthy of attention is the Datsun 1500, also known as the Fairlady.

A Look at the Fairlady: A Classic Datsun Roadster Restoration

The Datsun Fairlady 1500 was released early in 1963, several months before the release of Britain's popular MGB roadster although many would unfairly later call the Datsun roadster a copy of the MGB roadster. It's estimated that fewer than 2,000 of this first Datsun 1500 model were sold in the United States, and so finding one to serve as a roadster restoration project may be tough but worth the challenge.

This Japanese roadster featured a steel body built upon a conventional chassis with box rails and a live-axle rear suspension. Out of the dealership it came with narrow bias ply tires and four-wheel drum brakes and underneath its hood was a 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder OHV engine that delivered 77 horsepower. While this offered average performance capabilities for its day, what really made the Datsun 1500 roadster desirable was its interior set-up.

The Datsun 1500 boasted what was then a unique three-seat configuration. In this model, there are the two front bucket seats and then a third single rear seat that faces sideways. The model also features a low-profile removable windshield and sleek, flat dashboard with toggle switches.

Getting Started With Your Datsun or Other Roadster Restoration

The first step to any restoration project is research. While the Datsun 1500 was the first of the Datsun roadster line, later models improved on the design and may be more in tune with your personal style and desire for a project car. For example, the 1957 Datsun Roadster is, in fact, the most sought after by collectors due to only 1,000 being produced as left-hand-drive models and being the last featuring the original dash before the 1968 emissions and safety regulations required changes. Other design elements or sheer availability may determine which model you opt for as well.

But no matter which roadster model you choose, Fairlady or Model T, our team at Customs & Hot Rods of Andice is here to assist. Whether you just need some help with the engine rebuild or need wholescale bodywork done, we have the team, tools, and experience to get the job done. Visit our project gallery to see some of our previous work, meet the team, and contact to learn more about the different type of restoration services we offer and about scheduling a consultation with your next project car!