Nissan Datsun 1500 (1963 to 1965)

The Datsun 1500 roadster (chassis code SP310 or SPL310), also known as the Datsun Fairlady or Datsun Sports depending on market, was a thoroughly modern roadster compared to the earlier SPL212/213 generations. Interestingly, this 1500 model was a three-seat roadster, with a pair of bucket seats up front and a transverse rear seat. While many consider the styling of the Datsun to be derivative of the more popular MGB, the Datsun was actually shown to the public first - at the springtime 1962 New York auto show, while the British MG was released later that summer. The 1500 was powered by a 1.5L inline-four (G15) capable of 76hp to 84hp depending on the year. It was suceeded by the SPL311 Datsun 1600.