Datsun Fairlady SP311 (1965)Sicnag, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Datsun Fairlady SP311

1965 — Japan

Muscle Era (1960-1974)JapaneseSwinging Sixties
Engine1,595 cc
DrivetrainRWD

Datsun Fairlady SP311

The SP311 represented the maturation of Datsun's Fairlady roadster line, offering more sophisticated styling and improved performance over earlier models. Its 1.6-liter engine with dual SU carburetors provided lively performance, while the independent rear suspension enhanced handling. The Fairlady name came from a Broadway musical that impressed Nissan president Katsuji Kawamata. This model bridged the gap between early Japanese sports cars and the coming 240Z revolution, helping Nissan understand Western sports car markets.