Datsun 160Z

Datsun 160Z (B210) (1978–1979)

Datsun 160Z
Overview
Manufacturer Nissan-Datsun South, Africa
Also called Datsun 160z Sports Coupé
Production 1978–1979
Assembly Rosslyn Plant, Pretoria, South Africa
Body and chassis
Class Sports car
Body style 2-door Coupé
Layout FR layout
Powertrain
Engine 1.6 L 4 CYL OHC
Transmission 4-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,340 mm (92.13 in)
Length 4,045 mm (159.25 in)
Width 1,545 mm (60.83 in)
Height 1,370 mm (53.94 in)
Curb weight 970 kg (2,138.48 lb)
Chronology
Predecessor Datsun 140Z
Successor (none)
160Z Sports Coupe, South Africa. Side lateral decals.

Following the success of the Datsun 140Z, Nissan-Datsun South Africa announced the 160Z in July 1978 . The engine was upgraded to the L16 motor as per the 160U SSS, and fitted with high performance camshaft and twin Hitachi side-draught carburettors based on the British SU type carburettor. Although the engine put out 71 kW (less than the 85 kW of the 140Z) the car had more torque at 140 N.m (DIM) @4,200 rpm against the 140Z’s 130 N.m (DIN) @ 5,000 rpm. The brakes (MacPherson strut front suspension with disc brakes) were developed according to the 280L Series pattern of increased calliper and disc size, and both rear springs and shock absorbers were also enhanced to eliminate axle-tramp.[1]

160Z Sports Coupe, South Africa. DX/GL grill with Z badge.

The 160Z colour scheme was based on the Datsun 280Z Zap car and came out in canary yellow with red, orange and yellow inlayed black decals, colour matched high back seats and Mexican stripe-cloth stitched in the centre panels. The 160Z also had front and rear spoilers; however, the front spoiler differed from the 140Z. Earlier models included a black rubber rear spoiler, whilst others had a colour matched yellow fibreglass rear spoiler – there is speculation as to whether Datsun-Nissan South Africa could no longer procure rubber spoilers or whether they felt the fibreglass spoiler was lighter and more durable than the rubber one.

The 160Z, as with the 140Z, had the DX/GL front grill (without integrated driving lights) with a ‘Datsun Z’ badge. Both the 160Z and 140Z had rear window louvres, manufactured by Perana Louvres South Africa. In addition, the 160Z had aluminium alloy wheels designed by Eddie Keizan of Tiger Wheels which were then later fitted to the 140Y and 160Y GX models, also part of the Y Series.

160Z Sports Coupe, South Africa. Alloy wheels designed by Eddie Keizan of Tiger Wheels.
160Z Sports Coupe, South Africa. Six rear round lights.
160Z Sports Coupe, South Africa. High back seats with Mexican Stripe cloth.
160Z Sports Coupe, South Africa. Dashboard with round gauges.
160Z Sports Coupe, South Africa. Interior.

Nissan-Datsun South Africa produced 120 160Z’s in 1977 then retailing at ZAR 5,595, and 121 in 1979 retailing at ZAR 6,395 before being discontinued. By 1980 the final stock was being sold for ZAR 6,530[1]

Specifications[2]

Engine

Carburettor

Transmission

Suspension

Steering

Tyres and wheels

Dimensions

Brakes

Capacities

Sources

  1. 1 2 Car. Uitvlugt, Howard Drive, Pinelands 7405: Ramsay, Son & Parker (PTY) LTD. July 1978. p. 19.
  2. ↑ Auto Data Digest 95/96, Edition 21, Mead and McGrouther (Pty) Ltd pg 406

See also

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