Description
The Datsun 16 Sedan was introduced in 1937 as part of Datsun’s continued push to create affordable, reliable cars for the growing Japanese market. This model was an evolution of the earlier Datsun 14, featuring improvements in both design and performance. It played an important role in Datsun’s growth as a key player in Japan’s domestic auto industry before World War II.
Powered by a 722cc inline-four engine, the Datsun 16 produced approximately 16 horsepower, offering modest but sufficient power for the small sedan. The engine was paired with a three-speed manual transmission, which allowed drivers to manage the car’s performance effectively for both urban driving and light touring. The car’s top speed was around 80 km/h (50 mph), typical for small cars of that era.
The design of the Datsun 16 Sedan reflected the influences of European and American cars from the 1930s. It had a compact, boxy shape with rounded edges, a vertical front grille, and large round headlights mounted on the fenders. The overall appearance was simple and functional, with an emphasis on practicality rather than luxury. The car’s steel body was mounted on a sturdy frame, giving it durability and robustness for daily use.
Inside, the Datsun 16 Sedan offered seating for four passengers in a relatively minimalist cabin. The interior was straightforward, with basic instruments and controls, reflecting the car’s focus on affordability and efficiency. It provided enough comfort for its time, making it suitable for family use or small business owners.
One of the key selling points of the Datsun 16 was its affordability. It was designed to be a car that ordinary Japanese people could aspire to own, aligning with Datsun’s mission of producing practical vehicles for the domestic market. The car’s relatively low cost and reliable performance made it popular among the emerging middle class in Japan.
The Datsun 16 Sedan, along with other models from the late 1930s, helped cement Datsun’s reputation as a manufacturer of reliable, economical cars. Although production was interrupted by World War II, the Datsun 16 was part of the foundation upon which Nissan would later build its global success.
Today, the Datsun 16 Sedan is considered a rare and historically significant vehicle, representing an important era in the development of the Japanese automotive industry. Its simplicity, practicality, and role in the early growth of Datsun make it a notable piece of automotive history.