The Evolution of The Datsun (Nissan) 210

The Nissan 210, also known as the Datsun 210, is a series of compact cars produced by Nissan from 1958 to 2004. The 210 model was a significant part of Nissan’s lineup, offering a range of body styles, engines, and trim levels to cater to diverse customer needs. In this article, we will delve into the evolution of the Nissan 210, exploring its various models, trim levels, and production years.

Introduction and Early Years (1958-1965)
The Nissan 210 was first introduced in 1958 as the Datsun 210, a compact sedan designed to appeal to the post-war Japanese market. The initial model featured a 1.0-liter inline-four engine, producing 34 horsepower. The 210 was available in two body styles: a four-door sedan and a two-door coupe. The early years saw limited trim levels, with the base model being the most popular.

First Generation (1965-1970)
In 1965, Nissan introduced the first generation of the 210, which saw significant improvements in design, performance, and features. The new 210 featured a more modern body style, with a longer wheelbase and a larger engine option, the 1.3-liter inline-four. The trim levels expanded to include the Deluxe, which added features like a radio, heater, and better interior upholstery. The 210 was also available as a wagon, known as the Datsun 221, and a pickup truck, known as the Datsun 222.

Second Generation (1970-1975)
The second generation of the 210, introduced in 1970, marked a significant shift towards more modern and efficient design. The new 210 featured a front-engine, front-wheel drive layout, with a range of engine options, including the 1.2-liter, 1.4-liter, and 1.6-liter inline-fours. The trim levels expanded to include the GL, which added features like air conditioning, power steering, and a more luxurious interior. The 210 was also available as a coupe, known as the Datsun 240Z, which became a separate model line.

Third Generation (1975-1981)
The third generation of the 210, introduced in 1975, saw further improvements in design, performance, and safety features. The new 210 featured a more aerodynamic body style, with a range of engine options, including the 1.4-liter, 1.6-liter, and 1.8-liter inline-fours. The trim levels expanded to include the SSS, which added features like a sport-tuned suspension, alloy wheels, and a more aggressive exterior design. The 210 was also available as a hatchback, known as the Datsun 210 Hatch, and a station wagon, known as the Datsun 210 Estate.

Fourth Generation (1981-1985)
The fourth generation of the 210, introduced in 1981, marked a significant shift towards more comfort-oriented design. The new 210 featured a more spacious interior, with a range of engine options, including the 1.3-liter, 1.6-liter, and 1.8-liter inline-fours. The trim levels expanded to include the SE, which added features like power windows, cruise control, and a more luxurious interior. The 210 was also available as a sedan, coupe, and hatchback, with the addition of a new body style, the Datsun 210 Liftback.

Fifth Generation (1985-1990)
The fifth generation of the 210, introduced in 1985, saw further improvements in design, performance, and safety features. The new 210 featured a more aerodynamic body style, with a range of engine options, including the 1.3-liter, 1.6-liter, and 2.0-liter inline-fours. The trim levels expanded to include the SR, which added features like a sport-tuned suspension, alloy wheels, and a more aggressive exterior design. The 210 was also available as a sedan, coupe, and hatchback, with the addition of a new body style, the Nissan 210 GT.

Sixth Generation (1990-1995)
The sixth generation of the 210, introduced in 1990, marked a significant shift towards more modern and efficient design. The new 210 featured a more aerodynamic body style, with a range of engine options, including the 1.3-liter, 1.6-liter, and 2.0-liter inline-fours. The trim levels expanded to include the XE, which added features like power windows, cruise control, and a more luxurious interior. The 210 was also available as a sedan, coupe, and hatchback, with the addition of a new body style, the Nissan 210 SE-R.

Seventh Generation (1995-2004)
The seventh and final generation of the 210, introduced in 1995, saw further improvements in design, performance, and safety features. The new 210 featured a more aggressive body style, with a range of engine options, including the 1.6-liter, 1.8-liter, and 2.0-liter inline-fours. The trim levels expanded to include the GXE, which added features like a sunroof, leather seats, and a more luxurious interior. The 210 was also available as a sedan, coupe, and hatchback, with the addition of a new body style, the Nissan 210 GT-R.

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Models and Trim Levels
Throughout its production run, the Nissan 210 was available in various models and trim levels, including:

• Base Model (1958-1985): The base model was the most basic trim level, featuring a 1.0-liter inline-four engine and minimal features.
• Deluxe (1965-1985): The Deluxe trim level added features like a radio, heater, and better interior upholstery.
• GL (1970-1985): The GL trim level added features like air conditioning, power steering, and a more luxurious interior.
• SSS (1975-1985): The SSS trim level added features like a sport-tuned suspension, alloy wheels, and a more aggressive exterior design.
• SE (1981-1995): The SE trim level added features like power windows, cruise control, and a more luxurious interior.
• SR (1985-1995): The SR trim level added features like a sport-tuned suspension, alloy wheels, and a more aggressive exterior design.
• XE (1990-2004): The XE trim level added features like power windows, cruise control, and a more luxurious interior.
• GXE (1995-2004): The GXE trim level added features like a sunroof, leather seats, and a more luxurious interior.
• SE-R (1990-2004): The SE-R trim level added features like a sport-tuned suspension, alloy wheels, and a more aggressive exterior design.
• GT (1985-2004): The GT trim level added features like a sport-tuned suspension, alloy wheels, and a more aggressive exterior design.
• GT-R (1995-2004): The GT-R trim level added features like a turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, and a more aggressive exterior design.

Conclusion
The Nissan 210 was a significant part of Nissan’s lineup, offering a range of body styles, engines, and trim levels to cater to diverse customer needs. From its introduction in 1958 to its discontinuation in 2004, the 210 underwent numerous design and engineering changes, reflecting the company’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. Throughout its production run, the Datsun 210 was available in various models and trim levels, each offering a unique combination of features, performance, and style. Today, the Nissan 210 remains a beloved classic, cherished by collectors and enthusiasts around the world.