Long before the Datsun Lil Hustler of the 1970s, there was the 2nd generation Datsun truck, arguably the vehicle that put Nissan/Datsun on the map in many parts of the world, the US included. These were available with different beds and most were the ‘standard’ 320 with a separate box, just like most pickups and just like the slightly modified one we featured in November. This NL320 has a more integrated bed and is reminiscent of the Falcon Ranchero of the day.
This NL320 is not as rare as the U320 we previously featured, but these are still rarely seen and, just as importantly, this example seems to be in great shape, with a lot of relatively recent work and a recent life in the desert.
Obviously, we don’t know what the reserve is here, but this is a steal anywhere near the current $4,250 price, assuming it’s as nice as claimed. This is not a perfectly original truck, but the mods are tasteful and functional and the overall look is classic. The seller says there are imperfections, but it sure looks and sounds like the hard work has been done.
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Mesa, AZ
$4,250 with 10 bids and reserve not met
02/19/2014 update: Ended at $7,600 with 25 bids and reserve not met
Wheels might be slightly big for our taste, but I could live with them. There’s no mention of giant brakes, so I’d find some proper steelies and hubcaps and swap as the mood strikes.
This angle really shows the cool lines and the tiny bed. The rear end is very stylish for a truck, especially compared to the standard 320.
Front end looks just like every other 320 and a lot like the related 310/Bluebird.
Interior looks nice – clearly, modern seats were added, but much of the rest looks period-correct.
Original radio is a nice touch and add-on AC looks period and was probably an Arizona necessity. I wonder how much HP gain there is when one switches the AC off.
Things look clean under the hood and the Weder carb is an obvious change that I hope increases driveability. The AC compressor installation looks pretty clean, too.
Ad text:
Restored NL320 very RARE, only 1000 made in a 3yr period.
Entire truck was stripped inside and out to bare metal and repaired any imperfections.
Rust was very minimal, truck has been in Arizona all its life.
This was done about 7yrs ago.
It has a Weber 32/36 DGV carburetor
Custom A/C
Customer fabricated and balanced drive shaft
Switch to negative ground with an internal regulated alternator
Engine is A14
Transmission is a 5-speed from a Datsun 210. It is a F-60 Transmission.
Tires are Goodyear Eagles RSA 205/55/16’s on GM steel wheels with a custom Nissan center cap.
19,000 miles on a rebuilt engine.
There are some imperfections and this is considered a daily driver and not a 100% show car.
Always garaged and well cared for looks very nice