| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1973 |
| Production Years: | 1973 - 1977 discontinued in 1977 |
The Nissan Datsun 140J, introduced in 1973 and produced until 1977, represents a classic entry in Nissan's Datsun lineup, renowned for its reliability and practical sedan design. This generation of the Datsun 140J sedan was developed primarily for efficiency and everyday use during the 1970s, making it a popular choice in its segment at the time. While exact dimensions may vary slightly by market and trim, the vehicle typically displays a balanced profile with compact sedan proportions well-suited for urban and suburban driving environments. In metric measurements, the Datsun 140J generally features a length ranging around 4,100 to 4,300 mm (161.4 to 169.3 inches), a width near 1,600 to 1,640 mm (63.0 to 64.6 inches), and a height close to 1,350 to 1,400 mm (53.1 to 55.1 inches). This size positions it comfortably in the compact sedan category, offering a good interior space for passengers without excessive bulk on the road. The weight of the model typically falls between 900 to 1,000 kg (1984 to 2205 pounds), contributing to its nimble handling characteristics and fuel efficiency—a key selling point amid the era's economic considerations. The Datsun 140J is powered by a 1.4-liter engine, reflecting its model designation, designed to deliver balanced performance with moderate power output for daily commuting. Its construction during the mid-1970s reflects Nissan’s focus on durability and simplicity, ensuring the 140J maintains relevance among collectors and vintage car enthusiasts today. Overall, the Nissan Datsun 140J sedan remains a noteworthy example of 1970s Japanese automotive manufacturing, admired for its practical size, vintage appeal, and reputation as an accessible, reliable car in its class.
Discover the standout features that make the 1973 Nissan Datsun 140 J a leader in its class
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The Datsun 140J sedan from the 1973-1977 generation comes with a compact footprint typical of early 1970s subcompact sedans. It is approximately 4,180 mm (164.6 inches) in length, which makes it maneuverable for city driving and parking. The width sits around 1,610 mm (63.4 inches), providing a narrow stance that fits well in tight parking spaces and urban environments. The height is about 1,385 mm (54.5 inches), offering a relatively low profile typical of sedans of its era. These dimensions made the 140J practical and easy to handle for daily commuting, reflecting its design focus on economy and compactness.
The wheelbase of the Datsun 140J is around 2,385 mm (93.9 inches), which is modest for sedans of that period. This moderate wheelbase contributes to a balanced ride and handling characteristics suited for a compact family car. Compared to some larger sedans of the 1970s, which often had wheelbases exceeding 2,600 mm (102 inches), the 140J's wheelbase is shorter, emphasizing its classification as a subcompact or compact vehicle. This shorter wheelbase aids in making the car nimble in urban settings but may result in less rear-seat legroom compared to larger models.
The curb weight of the Datsun 140J is approximately 900 kg (1,984 lbs), which is relatively light for a sedan. This lightweight character helps the car in terms of fuel efficiency and agility. The lighter weight means the small four-cylinder engine doesn't have to work as hard to move the vehicle, which improves fuel economy and accelerative performance within the context of its modest power output. Additionally, a lighter car generally offers more responsive handling, especially in city driving conditions, which was a significant factor for the 140J's target market.
Yes, the Datsun 140J can comfortably fit inside a standard garage. Typical single-car garage dimensions range from around 2,400 mm (94 inches) in width and 4,800 mm (189 inches) in length, both of which exceed the Datsun 140J's dimensions. With a length of approximately 4,180 mm (164.6 inches), width of 1,610 mm (63.4 inches), and height of 1,385 mm (54.5 inches), the 140J has ample clearance on all sides within a standard American or European garage. It poses no issues for fitting indoors, making it convenient for owners who need secure parking.
The Datsun 140J is designed as a compact four-door sedan with seating for up to five passengers, including the driver. The interior space is modest but functional, with a focus on efficient use of space. Front seats typically provide adequate legroom and headroom for average-sized adults, while the rear bench seat can accommodate three passengers, although legroom may be somewhat limited for taller individuals due to the compact exterior dimensions. The car features a reasonably sized trunk for luggage and groceries, suitable for small families or daily commuting needs. Overall, it offers practicality without luxury space, matching its economical and utilitarian intent.
The Datsun 140J was introduced as a slightly updated model following the earlier Datsun 120Y and 1200 series sedans. Compared to its predecessor, the 140J featured minor dimensional changes to better cater to market demands. The length and width saw modest increases to improve interior space slightly while maintaining its subcompact classification. For instance, the earlier 120Y models measured closer to 4,050 mm (159.4 inches) in length, making the 140J marginally longer at 4,180 mm (164.6 inches). Similarly, the width increased slightly from approximately 1,580 mm (62.2 inches) to 1,610 mm (63.4 inches). These dimensional changes reflected Nissan's goal of evolving the model to meet growing consumer expectations without significantly altering the vehicle's compact character.
When compared with contemporaries like the 1970s Toyota Corolla, the Datsun 140J shares many characteristics typical of subcompact sedans of the era. Dimensions are similar: for instance, the Corolla's length ranged around 4,100 mm (161.4 inches), width about 1,550 mm (61 inches), and height near 1,400 mm (55.1 inches), which places them close in size though the 140J tends to be slightly longer and wider. Both cars prioritized practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability. The Corolla might have had a slight edge in interior refinement and ride comfort depending on the market and trim, while the 140J was appreciated for its reliability and fuel efficiency. Thus, the two vehicles were direct competitors with only subtle differences, appealing to similar buyers looking for practical subcompact sedans.
The Datsun 140J featured a conventional five-seat layout, with two front bucket seats and a rear bench seat accommodating three passengers. This layout was standard for compact sedans in the 1970s, balancing passenger capacity with interior space limitations. The trunk offered around 300 liters (roughly 10.6 cubic feet) of cargo capacity, sufficient for everyday tasks such as grocery runs and small luggage. While the rear seats could not fold down to increase cargo space, the trunk size was quite practical for the vehicle's size class. The interior design focused on simplicity and functionality, making the Datsun 140J a reasonable choice for small families or individuals needing a reliable compact vehicle.
The Datsun 140J was typically powered by a 1.4-liter inline-four gasoline engine, inline with its name. This engine produced modest power, in the range of approximately 75 horsepower, which was adequate for the vehicle’s lightweight and compact nature. The engine provided reliable and fuel-efficient performance, ideal for city and highway driving in the 1970s. Transmission options usually included a 4-speed manual gearbox, with some markets offering a 3-speed automatic version. The balanced combination of lightweight construction and efficient engine made the 140J an economical choice, though it was never aimed at performance enthusiasts but rather at practical transport.
The Datsun 140J, owing to its small size and lightweight build, is known for offering good fuel economy, typically achieving around 8-10 liters per 100 kilometers (approximately 23-29 miles per gallon) depending on driving conditions and maintenance. Given the car’s age, keeping it running efficiently today requires regular maintenance such as carburetor tuning, oil changes, and careful attention to the cooling and electrical systems. Parts availability can vary depending on the region, but many classic Nissan parts remain obtainable through specialized suppliers and enthusiasts' networks. Proper upkeep can make the 140J a reliable and economical classic car, particularly valued by those interested in vintage Japanese automotive history.
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