Description
The Datsun Bluebird 310, introduced in 1959, marked a pivotal moment in Nissan’s history and the evolution of the Japanese automotive industry. It was the first model to officially carry the “Bluebird” name and was developed with the intention of being a truly modern, export-ready compact car. It was designed to appeal not only to Japanese consumers but also to growing international markets, including the United States and Australia.
Mechanically, the Bluebird 310 was powered by the reliable 988 cc Nissan E-series engine, an overhead-valve inline-four that produced around 37 horsepower. This engine had already proven itself in earlier models like the Datsun 210 and 211. It was paired with a three-speed manual transmission, with an optional four-speed gearbox offered later. The drivetrain was rear-wheel drive, and the car’s lightweight construction helped make the most of its modest power output.
The Bluebird 310 was a four-door sedan with modern styling for its time. Its design was inspired by American and European cars of the late 1950s, featuring modest tailfins, a wide chrome grille, and gently curved body lines. It was considered stylish and upscale for a compact Japanese car and was well received in export markets for its clean and practical appearance.
Inside, the Datsun 310 offered a simple but refined interior. It provided seating for four to five passengers with basic cloth or vinyl upholstery. The dashboard featured a symmetrical design with centrally mounted instruments and controls, reflecting the car’s emphasis on function and clarity. Heating and ventilation were standard, and a radio was offered as an option.
One of the Bluebird 310’s most important features was its unibody construction, which gave it improved rigidity, safety, and interior space compared to earlier body-on-frame designs. It also had independent front suspension with coil springs and wishbones, which helped provide a comfortable and stable ride for its class. Drum brakes were fitted all around, which was standard for the era.
The Bluebird 310 was not only popular in Japan but also helped Nissan gain a foothold in export markets. It was among the first Japanese cars to be sold in the United States in meaningful numbers, where it was marketed as an economical alternative to European imports. Its affordability, build quality, and efficient design made it appealing to cost-conscious buyers, especially in the wake of the 1958–59 recession.
In motorsport, versions of the Bluebird 310 were entered in endurance rallies and road events, continuing the tradition set by the Datsun 210’s success in the 1958 Australian Mobilgas Trial. These events further enhanced the model’s reputation for toughness and reliability.
Production of the Datsun Bluebird 310 continued until 1963, when it was succeeded by the Bluebird 410, which brought more power, modern styling, and greater refinement. Despite its modest specifications, the 310 played a foundational role in establishing Nissan as a global automotive brand.
Today, the Datsun Bluebird 310 is a rare and cherished classic. Its significance as the first true Bluebird and as an early ambassador of Japanese car manufacturing gives it a respected place in automotive history. Collectors value it for its elegant simplicity, historic importance, and role in the emergence of Japan as a major car-producing nation.