Description

The Datsun P221 Pickup was introduced in 1958 as part of Nissan’s efforts to expand and modernize its range of light commercial vehicles. It was an export version of the domestic Datsun 220 series and played a key role in establishing Datsun’s reputation in overseas markets, especially in North America and Oceania.

The P221 Pickup was essentially a truck variant based on the Datsun 210 sedan, sharing much of its mechanical foundation. It featured a more refined design than its predecessors, with cleaner body lines and improved build quality. The cab was roomier, and the overall proportions were better suited to a broader range of commercial tasks.

Powering the P221 was a 1.0-litre inline-four engine known as the “C” series engine. This unit produced around 37 horsepower, which, although modest by modern standards, was a useful improvement over earlier postwar Datsun trucks. It was mated to a 4-speed manual gearbox and sent power to the rear wheels.

One of the key strengths of the P221 was its robust chassis and suspension setup. With a ladder-type frame, leaf springs, and a solid rear axle, the truck could handle light-duty hauling and delivery work efficiently. Its payload capacity was typically around 500 kg (about 1,100 pounds), making it suitable for small businesses and tradespeople.

Design-wise, the P221 combined utilitarian function with a hint of style. It had a rounded front grille, small chrome accents, and a two-door cab with simple, practical lines. The interior was basic, offering a bench seat, minimal instrumentation, and easy-to-clean surfaces—typical of commercial vehicles of the era.

Importantly, the P221 was one of the first Datsun pickups to be seriously marketed abroad, particularly in the United States. Its compact size, good fuel economy, and low cost made it attractive in a market dominated by much larger American pickups. While it wasn’t a high-performance vehicle, it carved out a niche among customers who needed a small, affordable work truck.

The Datsun P221 was succeeded in the early 1960s by the more powerful and better-equipped 320 series. Nonetheless, the P221 played a crucial role in Nissan’s early export strategy and helped to build the foundation for the Datsun pickup’s later global success. Today, surviving examples are rare and sought after by collectors who appreciate their role in automotive history.