P610 180B (Mk4 Bluebird)

Datsun’s heyday started here. Riding on the back of the 1600 (as well as the image enhancing 240Z, compact 1200 and later 240K models), its 180B replacement enjoyed a spectacular run of sales in Australia from the onset.

It also featured most of the 1600’s attributes, like independent rear suspension, but weight blunted its chuckability.

This time a four-door sedan (in Deluxe and GL guises) and a two-door SSS coupe were introduced.

The new L18 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine was mated to a four-speed manual or three-speed automatic gearbox, with the SSS going to a five-speed manual during ’75.

In early ’74 wrap-around front indicators, new tail-lights and cabin trim changes heralded a range-wide facelift, while a (fully imported, not locally manufactured) luxury GX sedan arrived in November ’74.

Running late in June ’75 was a GX wagon, followed by a minor trim and grille facelift in 1976.

The 180B proved popular right to its demise in October ’77, when the P810 200B range arrived.