The 14th East-African Safari Rally in 1966 (Class winner)
Sedan / Rally Car / Competition
The second generation Datsun Bluebird (410) was rolled out in September 1963 and a sports model of 1200SS (sports sedan)was added in March 1964. 1200SS is the origin of the sports models such as “SS” and “SSS” that were the bywords of Bluebird. Its engine, 1.2-liter “E” with the twin carburetor, generated 65ps.
It underwent minor change to 411 in May 1965 to evolve to “1300SS” with the “J” engine of 72ps and the maximum speed of 150 m/h. 1300SS contributed to improving the image of Nissan sports cars by winning rallies such as the class win in the 14th East-African Safari Rally in 1966.
This car is the actual class winner machine of the rally which was so grueling that 90% of the entrants did not finish. This story of Datsun Team later became the original of the movie film “Safari 5000” (1969), starring Yujiro Ishihara.