Description

The Datsun Bluebird P312 was introduced in 1960 as an updated and slightly more refined version of the earlier Bluebird 310 series. It was part of Nissan’s ongoing efforts to improve their passenger cars and cater to both the growing domestic market in Japan and a rapidly expanding export audience. The P312 is particularly notable as one of the last Bluebird models to retain the styling cues and mechanical layout from the company’s first generation of postwar sedans, before the transition to more modern European-influenced designs in the mid-1960s.

Mechanically, the Datsun Bluebird P312 was powered by the Nissan E1 engine, a 1,189 cc inline-four with overhead valves that produced approximately 55 horsepower. This engine was a development of the earlier E-series unit used in the 310 and 311 models, offering a modest increase in both power and torque. It was mated to a three-speed or four-speed manual transmission, depending on the version, and drove the rear wheels through a traditional live axle layout. The combination of light weight and reliable engineering made the car dependable and easy to maintain.

Visually, the P312 retained much of the rounded, conservative body style of its predecessors, but with minor styling updates. The grille was redesigned with horizontal slats, and there were subtle changes to the front and rear lighting. The body was available in four-door sedan and three-door station wagon (van) configurations. Chrome detailing was modest but present, especially on higher trim levels, such as the Deluxe and Fancy Deluxe variants.

The interior of the Bluebird P312 was functional but showed signs of increasing sophistication for a compact Japanese sedan of its era. It featured a simple dashboard with round dials, toggle switches, and often included a heater and AM radio as optional or standard equipment in higher trims. Upholstery was typically in vinyl or cloth, and the cabin was large enough to comfortably seat four adults.

The P312 also included some technical improvements over earlier Bluebirds. The front suspension remained independent with coil springs, while the rear used a leaf spring solid axle, offering a balance between ride comfort and durability. The car was known for its soft ride, which was well-suited to the rougher roads of the time in many markets.

This model was particularly significant for export markets. Nissan continued its strategy of building international credibility by exporting the P312 to regions like Australia, New Zealand, and North America, where it was marketed as the Datsun 1200. Its reputation for reliability and simplicity helped solidify Nissan’s image abroad, especially among buyers looking for affordable, economical alternatives to European cars.

Production of the P312 ended in 1963, when it was succeeded by the Bluebird 410, a completely redesigned model styled by Pininfarina with a more modern and angular aesthetic. While the P312 may not have been as advanced as the models that followed, it was a crucial part of the Bluebird’s early development and played an important role in building Nissan’s global reputation.

Today, the Datsun Bluebird P312 is a rare classic, prized by vintage Japanese car collectors for its charm, historical importance, and simple mechanicals. Survivors in good condition are few, especially outside Japan, but they represent an important chapter in the evolution of the Japanese compact sedan.