Nissan Sunny - B110 Series

B110 Series

The second-generation Sunny launched in 1970 and was also known as the Datsun 1200. This new model was slightly larger in all dimensions to match its market rival, the equally popular Toyota Corolla.

The Datsun 1200 featured MacPherson strut front suspension with optional disc brakes and an economical 1.2-liter A12-series engine. A five-door station wagon was added to the Sunny range in addition to the three-door wagon. In April 1970 a GX Grand Luxury trim with twin-carburetor engine was added for the Japan domestic market. In January 1972 a minor facelift occurred in the Japan market with a new hood, grille and other small modifications and equipment fitting. In August 1972, the GX-5 model was added in Japan, which improved on the GX by fitting a direct-fifth (non-overdrive) five-speed manual transmission. The Sunny 1200GX was offered as an alternative to the Toyota Corolla Levin and Toyota Sprinter Trueno, which were performance package trim levels on the more economical Corolla and Sprinter models. For the 1973 model year, USA models were re-specified with energy-absorbing bumpers, fire-resistant interiors and other government-mandated safety items.

The B110 made its racing debut at the Fuji 200 Mile race November 23, 1970 in the TS1300 class. In this class which was effectively a Toyota Corolla monopolistic state it was challenged by only one Nissan works car, but with beautiful victory for driver Makoto Suzuki.

In Australia and New Zealand, the Datsun 1200 was highly regarded for conversion to a 2WD rally car. The Datsun 1600 generally rated highest among entry-level Datsuns, and the 1200 a close second.

The Datsun 1200 was the most fuel-efficient vehicle in the United States in 1973, as rated by the government at 28.7 mpg (8.20 L/100 km; 34.5 mpg) in overall driving pattern. It achieved 37.9 mpg (6.21 L/100 km; 45.5 mpg) in highway driving. At its United States introduction, it was the lowest price car at $1866. (Road & Track magazine, November 1970)

In South Africa, the B110 was sold through 1976. A pick up (bakkie) derivative, featuring a 1,400 cc engine, was sold until 2008 when emissions laws forced the end of its production. Over 275,000 were sold to customers who appreciated the rugged rear-wheel-drive design.

In New Zealand, a special edition Datsun 1200 SSS four-door sedan with twin side-draft Dell'Orto 40 mm carburetors and other racy features was developed, assembled locally and marketed. The 1200 was popular in New Zealand, where it was contract-assembled at a number of different factories (sedans at Campbell Industries in Thames; three- and later, five-door wagons at Motor Holdings, Waitara). The car remained in production well into 1974 as Nissan NZ was unsure how the public would react to the oddly styled 120Y successor.

In Portugal, a special Datsun 1200 S1 2-door sedan was marketed.

In North America (US and Canada), there were an average of 44,000 Datsun 1200s sold each year for three model years, 1971–1973.

• Coupé total sales: 89,541
• 2-door sedan total sales: 43,761

Reference: Nissan model guide sheet