Japan vs United Kingdom — 1968 vs 1973
| Bluebird 510 SSS Coupe | Dolomite Sprint Standard | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 109 hp | 127 hp |
| Torque | 105 lb-ft | 123 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,595 cc | 1,998 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 8.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 109 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,995 lbs | 2,200 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,420 mm | 2,362 mm |
| Length | 4,090 mm | 4,216 mm |
| Units Produced | 290,000 | 22,941 |
| Original MSRP | $2,200 | $4,200 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 7/10 |
The 1973 Triumph Dolomite Sprint Standard emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1968 Datsun Bluebird 510 SSS Coupe counters with lighter weight, stronger collectibility, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
When Japan engineering meets United Kingdom craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1968 Datsun Bluebird 510 SSS Coupe and 1973 Triumph Dolomite Sprint Standard embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1968 Datsun Bluebird 510 SSS Coupe producing 109 hp and the 1973 Triumph Dolomite Sprint Standard delivering 127 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Datsun Bluebird 510 uses a Inline-4 SOHC displacing 1,595 cc, while the Triumph Dolomite Sprint relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V with 1,998 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1973 Triumph Dolomite Sprint Standard edges ahead at 8.4 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. The Datsun Bluebird 510 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 205 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 22,941 units built, the 1973 Triumph Dolomite Sprint Standard is considerably scarcer than the Datsun Bluebird 510's 290,000 examples.