Compromised Internals

Overview Specs Highlights Characteristics

Overview

The Datsun Violet, known in different markets as the 160J or 180B, was Nissan’s answer to the brutal challenges of long-distance endurance rallies. While it didn’t make a huge splash in European tarmac events, it became a dominant contender in Africa during the 1970s. Developed with input from Nissan’s motorsport division and driven by stars like Shekhar Mehta and Rauno Aaltonen, the Violet tackled the roughest roads on the planet — thriving in heat, dust, mud, and river crossings where many rivals failed to finish.

Technical Specs & Innovations

The Violet’s success came from its mix of mechanical simplicity, durability, and an ability to be serviced quickly — key in remote rally environments where survival mattered as much as speed.

🏆 Competitive Highlights

1979 Safari Rally: Shekhar Mehta wins in the 160J, showcasing its African dominance.
Late 1970s Rallye Côte d’Ivoire: Top results for Datsun drivers in punishing West African stages.
Reliability Streak: Known for consistently finishing rallies where others retired — key to Nissan’s reputation in endurance rallying.

The Datsun Violet wasn’t flashy, but it was dependable. In some of the world's harshest rally conditions, it quietly racked up wins and finishes while better-known cars broke down.

Driving Characteristics

The Violet was built for endurance over finesse. It wasn’t the fastest on paper, but its predictable handling and rugged suspension made it easy to control on unforgiving terrain. Drivers relied on its steady behavior and ability to soak up punishment, rather than raw agility or acceleration.

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Datsun 160J / 180B (Violet)