Who doesn’t love an underdog that upsets a favored opponent? The Rocky movies built a franchise on this premise, and it’s been almost 40-years since North Carolina State upset Houston to win the 1983 NCAA men’s basketball championship and the love for Jim Valvano’s squad still resonate.
This notion of an underdog going toe-to-toe with a bigger opponent extends to cars and my Pick of the Day is a true giant killer.
The Pick of the Day is a newly restored 1971 Datsun 510 listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a dealer in Lavergne, Tennessee. (Click the link to view the listing)
“There’s a big reason why the 510 has legendary status in many circles, and Peter Brock is at the center of it,” the listing states. “Brock Racing Enterprises BRE played into the 510’s strengths of the peppy and hardy motor as well as the fully independent suspension to make them a hit on the Trans Am racing circuit.
“This one pays tribute to that history with a touch of the BRE Datsun Sports livery on the sides. Plus, the double four-spoke wheel, clean front end, SS badging, sport mirrors, and big/bright exhaust tip are all part of this sporty style.”
Under the hood is a 1600cc four-cylinder engine paired with a four-speed manual transmission. It has a fully-independent suspension, front disc and rear drum brakes. This 510 is largely spartan with amenities, but it does features an AM/FM/CD stereo.
“The interior is updated with a cool style that celebrates this sporty heritage. The front seats are high-back buckets with an armrest center console in-between. We love the red piping and red perforated inserts that match the exterior,” the listing states. “The overall feeling is exactly what the 510 is supposed to be: a fun economy car that punches above its weight.”
The seller is asking $22,995 for this Brock Racing Enterprises inspired Datsun 510. Shock the world, take down the perceived favorite and show the world to never underestimate the heart of a champion with this Datsun 510.
To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.
You’re glossing over the fact that this car merely collected enough points to stay afloat until the team got the Z car sorted out. Nice as this is the Datsun Z car was the true giant killer
The generic fart cannon exhaust makes me question everything about this build. Hate them.