1969 Datsun Fairlady SRL311

Registration No: PFG 577G
Chassis No: SRL31109261
MOT: Exempt

• Comprehensively restored and uprated for track use between 2016 and 2021
• Full engine overhaul including new Weber carburettors during this time, and now producing some 170bhp
• Used sparingly since the completion
• Said by the vendor to be 'a quick car'!

Widely regarded as Japan's first genuine sports car, the second-generation Datsun Fairlady (SP310, or Datsun Sports SPL310 in the USA) was introduced in 1962. Built around a robust, double-dropped, cruciform-braced chassis, it was equipped with dual wishbone independent front suspension, a live rear axle, telescopic shock absorbers and cam and lever steering. Entered for the first Japanese Grand Prix in 1963, suitably tweaked SP310 models also won the national championship against Triumph TR4 and Porsche 356 competition. The ultimate evolution, however, arrived in 1967. The SR311 model saw the introduced of a new SOHC 1,982cc engine producing a claimed 135bhp and a five-speed gearbox as standard, with the option of a twin-Mikuni or Solex carburettor packaged and uprated cam for a total of 150bhp. Offering great performance at a low price, the 2000 model was immediately popular with racers such as John Morton and Bob Sharp, and frequently won its class in the SCCA C-Production and D-Production series into the 1970s. A minor facelift for 1968 saw the height of the windscreen raised.

This delightful example of the seldom-seen Fairlady may look like a pretty and mild-mannered sports car to take out on a Sunday afternoon, but you may be assured it is quite a bit hotter than that. Its history is known as far back as 2011, when it was imported by Shrewsbury dealership Wheels of Old and sold to the vendor. He was quick to use it in earnest, campaigning it in the Ross & District Motor Sport Club’s 2012 Ross Traders Historic Rally, where it set the fastest times on seven of the Tarmac stages.

Between 2016 and 2021, the Datsun was comprehensively overhauled to be more seriously competitive, with a half roll cage, a full engine overhaul with new Weber carburettors, and a respray in the lovely primrose it now wears. From the claimed factory output of 150bhp, the vendor advises that this produced around 170bhp when tested in 2021, which combined with a standard five-speed gearbox, makes for a very capable machine. As he says: “This car is not for pottering around – it is very quick and needs driving briskly. It will make you smile!” It is described as “very good” in most areas with an “excellent” engine, and is sold with the current V5C.

For more information, please contact:
Paul Cheetham
paul.cheetham@handh.co.uk
07538 667452