Datsun 280Z 2.8L Inline 6 1978

Once upon a time in the mystical land of Japan, there was a small, unassuming car company called Datsun. Legend has it that the name "Datsun" was created when someone dropped a bunch of Scrabble tiles and thought, "Sure, that'll do!" Datsun started with small, quirky cars that made you wonder if they were more suited for a toy store than a car dealership.

In the 1950s, Datsun had a brilliant idea: "Let's try our luck in the American market!" They shipped over the Datsun 1000, a car so tiny that even a clown could drive it comfortably. Americans scratched their heads but soon fell in love with its compact cuteness. It was like adopting a small, four-wheeled puppy.

As the '60s rolled in, Datsun unveiled the 240Z, a sports car that could outrun a samurai in flip-flops. It had the speed of a cheetah and a design that turned heads faster than a ninja on roller skates. The 240Z became an instant classic and showed that Datsun was more than just quirky little cars.

In the '70s, Datsun dropped the 510, a sedan with the agility of a ninja and a suspension so smooth, it could make you believe you were floating on a cloud. Families across America hailed it as the car that could carry everything – from groceries to grandmas – without breaking a sweat.

But the real magic happened when Datsun revealed the Datsun 510 wagon. It was like Mary Poppins' bag, fitting more stuff than seemed humanly possible. This wagon was an enigma, a mystery, and America couldn't get enough.

Then, in the '80s, Datsun pulled a fast one and changed their name to Nissan, leaving us all a bit befuddled. But they continued making fantastic cars that were zippier than a sushi chef on a Saturday night.

And that's the whimsical tale of how Datsun – or should I say, Nissan – took over the American market, one quirky yet lovable car at a time.

As for the most influential Datsun models and their specs:

Datsun 240Z: The 240Z was a sports car sensation. It featured a 2.4-liter inline-six engine, producing around 150 horsepower. With rear-wheel drive and a sleek design, it was a blast to drive and a style icon of its time.
Datsun 510: The Datsun 510, available as a sedan and wagon, was loved for its handling and durability. It typically came with a four-cylinder engine, producing around 96 horsepower, and was known for its agile suspension.
Datsun 510 Wagon: The Datsun 510 Wagon was like a Tardis, with a deceptively spacious interior. It shared the same engine as the sedan and provided exceptional versatility for families on the go.
These Datsun models left an enduring legacy with their quirky charm, performance, and practicality, making them cherished classics in the hearts of car enthusiasts and families alike.

Oh, one more thing...years after BMW made a copy or the 510 and decided to call it e30. Strange world!