Description
The Datsun Bluebird 1.8 GL was part of the Bluebird 810 series, produced by Nissan during the mid to late 1970s. This generation of Bluebird marked a shift toward more powerful engines, refined styling, and an increasingly global focus, especially as Datsun gained traction in markets like Australia, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
The 1.8 GL designation referred to the model equipped with the 1.8-litre L18 engine, a well-regarded four-cylinder overhead cam unit that produced around 105 horsepower, depending on market tuning and emissions equipment. The L18 engine was known for its smooth operation, robust construction, and strong mid-range torque, making the 1.8 GL a practical yet lively option for everyday use. It was typically paired with a four-speed or five-speed manual transmission, though a three-speed automatic was available in some markets.
Stylistically, the Bluebird 1.8 GL featured the square-edged, conservative lines typical of the mid-1970s. The design was clean and mature, with rectangular headlamps, a modest chrome grille, and straight body contours. The GL trim level was positioned as a mid- to upper-tier offering, adding touches of visual refinement without the sportiness of the SSS or the top-end features of the fully loaded G6 or luxury variants.
Inside, the 1.8 GL featured a relatively upscale interior for a mid-size Japanese sedan of the period. It typically included upholstered seats with patterned cloth, woodgrain dashboard trim, and a more comprehensive instrument cluster than base models. Amenities such as a push-button radio, clock, floor carpeting, and rear defogger were often included or available as factory options. The interior was spacious and practical, continuing the Bluebird’s tradition of solid family transportation.
In terms of ride and handling, the 1.8 GL benefited from a front independent suspension with MacPherson struts and a live rear axle with coil springs. While tuned for comfort more than agility, the suspension delivered a stable and comfortable ride, and the L18 engine gave the car confident cruising ability, particularly on highways or longer trips.
The Bluebird 1.8 GL was popular in several export markets, especially where buyers were seeking a balance between price, performance, and durability. It appealed to professionals and small families alike, offering a solid alternative to European sedans at a more affordable price point. In markets like Australia and New Zealand, it gained a reputation for long service life and low running costs.
Production of the 810 series continued into the late 1970s, after which it was succeeded by the more modern Bluebird 910 series. While the 1.8 GL may not have been a performance icon, it represented a mature and dependable offering in the Datsun lineup, bridging the gap between economy and comfort in a way that appealed to a wide range of drivers.
Today, the Datsun Bluebird 1.8 GL is a rare but appreciated classic, particularly among fans of vintage Japanese sedans. Its simple mechanical layout, proven engine, and restrained styling make it a rewarding car to restore and drive, especially for those interested in the evolution of Datsun’s global success during the 1970s.