This year marks the 50th anniversary of the beloved Datsun 510, and Nissan is hosting a grand celebration on September 23. The event will take place during the 13th annual Japanese Classic Car Show in Long Beach, California. Nissan aims to take center stage with a showcase of several iconic models at its exhibit.
At the forefront of Nissan’s display will be the celebratory Orange 1972 Datsun 510, meticulously restored to its original glory. Accompanying it will be its counterpart, the 240Z. This specific 240Z is notable for being a 1970 F/GT Bonneville land speed record holder, having maintained the record for the F/GT category from 1976 to 1985. Next to it will be a 1994 Nissan D21 Hardbody, another record-setting vehicle that dominated at Bonneville and El Mirage in the 1990s.
In addition to classic vehicles, Nissan will also feature two models of the 370Z, both fitting for this nostalgic event. The first is a 2018 370Z Heritage Edition, which honors the legacy of the Z-Car series while keeping the 370Z contemporary. Renowned Formula DRIFT racer Chris Forsberg is expected to exhibit two of his cars, including the 370Z featured in his viral PROXIMITY video that resembles the popular Gymkhana series.
Highlighting Nissan’s historical connection to electric vehicles, the company will present four EVs that have significantly contributed to its success in zero-emissions technology. Leading this showcase is the updated and tech-savvy 2018 LEAF, Nissan’s top-selling affordable electric vehicle. Joining it will be the 2011 Pikes Peak LEAF, which won the inaugural Electric Production Class at the Pikes Peak Hillclimb. Also on display will be a charming 1999 Hypermini EV and a 2002 Altra converted to electric power, placed next to the LEAF models.
This year’s show promises to be exciting, also commemorating the 50th anniversary of Mazda’s rotary engine, ensuring that a variety of historical vehicles will be on display—even for those who aren’t fans of Nissans.
Datsun 510
, Nissan
Datsun 240Z Bonneville
, Nissan
Nissan D21 Hardbody
, Nissan
370Z Heritage Edition
, Nissan
2011 LEAF Pikes Peak
, Nissan
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