Description

The Datsun Bluebird 1000, officially known as the Datsun 211, was introduced in 1959 and served as the immediate successor to the successful Datsun 210. It retained many of the strengths of its predecessor while adding subtle improvements in styling, build quality, and driving refinement. Though not originally marketed as the “Bluebird” in Japan—that name would debut more formally with the Datsun 310—the 211 is considered part of the Bluebird lineage and helped establish the nameplate’s foundation.

The Datsun 211 was powered by the 988 cc Nissan E-series engine, a four-cylinder overhead-valve unit that produced around 34 horsepower. This was the same engine used in the 210, known for its durability and respectable performance for a small car. The engine was paired with a three-speed manual transmission, sending power to the rear wheels. With a top speed of just over 110 km/h (about 68 mph), the 211 was suitable for both city and rural driving, and it offered good fuel economy, a key selling point at the time.

In terms of styling, the Datsun 211 maintained the rounded, modest look of the 210 but featured a slightly revised front grille, improved trim, and updated tail lights. The changes were evolutionary rather than revolutionary, reflecting a desire to modernize the car’s appearance without departing from a formula that had proven successful. The body styles included a four-door sedan, two-door sedan, and station wagon, offering flexibility to a range of customers.

Inside, the 211 featured a clean and simple dashboard layout, with basic instrumentation and durable materials. While far from luxurious, it was a comfortable car for its class. Seating was practical, and the interior space was reasonable for a small family car, especially considering its compact exterior dimensions.

The Datsun 211 was notable for continuing Datsun’s export expansion. It was sold in international markets, including Australia, New Zealand, and the United States, where it was badged as the Datsun 1000. Buyers outside Japan appreciated its economy, reliability, and simplicity—qualities that contrasted with some of the more complex or expensive European imports.

While the 211 did not represent a major leap forward in engineering or design, it played an important transitional role in Nissan’s development. It solidified the mechanical platform that would lead to the more advanced Datsun 310 Bluebird, which introduced more modern styling, improved suspension, and greater market impact.

Today, the Datsun 211 is a rare and historically important vehicle, especially for collectors interested in the roots of the Bluebird series. It reflects the growing confidence of Japan’s automotive industry in the late 1950s and the steady emergence of Datsun as a serious global competitor.