A true icon of the late 1960s sports car scene, this 1967 Datsun 2000 Roadster (SRL311) captures the spirit of the open-top motoring era — when Japanese engineering first began challenging European roadsters on their own turf. With its rev-happy 2.0L U20 inline-four, factory 5-speed gearbox, and classic low-slung stance, the Datsun 2000 remains one of the most enjoyable and collectible drivers of its time.
Mechanical & Performance
Under the hood is the original 2.0L U20 inline-four equipped with twin SU carburetors, paired to the desirable 5-speed manual transmission that set the 2000 apart from its contemporaries. The engine has been professionally inspected and tuned within the past year, showing excellent compression across all four cylinders and no leaks or electrical issues. It starts easily, runs smoothly, and pulls eagerly through the gears.
Braking is handled by front discs and rear drums, giving balanced stopping power for spirited weekend drives. The fuel system features an upgraded modern filter in place of the original glass bulb style. Mechanically, this car is in excellent condition, and was recently evaluated by a certified classic car mechanic and Monterey Classic Car Show judge, who rated it as “Good condition overall — a reliable driver, not a show car.” The tires were brand new when I purchased the car a year ago and have minimal mileage on them. Tire size: 185/70R14 on mag wheels.
Exterior & Interior
The car presents nicely in silver over black, with a convertible top in good condition and tight fitment. The body is straight and retains a classic driver-level finish — a few small dings and two minor rust spots (pictured) add honest character without detracting from the car’s appeal. The black interior is clean and functional, evoking the minimalist charm of 1960s roadsters.
Ownership & Use
Currently showing 12,662 miles on the odometer (true mileage unknown), the car has been driven only a few hundred miles in the past year, reserved for sunny weekend outings around Northern California. It has been well cared for, always garaged, and is offered with documentation from the most recent inspection and tune-up.
Highlights
Original 2.0L U20 engine with twin SU carbs
5-speed manual transmission – the performance model of its era
Excellent mechanical condition, strong compression in all cylinders, no leaks
Certified classic car mechanic evaluation: “Good condition”
Convertible top and interior in good shape
Front disc brakes, modernized fuel filter, and all systems functional
Located in Sacramento, California – available for local inspection or out-of-state sale
Asking Price
$42,500 OBO — priced fairly for a strong, mechanically sound driver-grade example.
Serious buyers only, please. Clean California title in hand. I'm selling the car because it was an impulse/nostalgia purchase (the 1969 Datsun 2000 I had in 1974 was not as hard on my butt, back, and ears), and I've come to the realization that at this stage in life I am better off with a more modern sports car with all the updated creature comforts (eyeing a used Audi TT).
Enthusiast’s Note
When the Datsun 2000 Roadster debuted in the late 1960s, it shocked the motoring world by going toe-to-toe with the era’s established icons — the MGB, Triumph TR4, and even the Porsche 912 — while often outperforming them in both horsepower and handling. Road & Track’s 1967 review called it “a serious sports car at a fraction of the cost,” praising its “smooth-revving engine and precise gearbox.”
With its 135 horsepower U20 engine and a true 5-speed transmission — the first ever offered in a Japanese production car — the Datsun 2000 could sprint to 60 mph in under nine seconds, rivaling early Mustangs and Alfa Romeos. Today, it stands as a symbol of Japan’s coming-of-age in the sports car world: lightweight, responsive, reliable, and built for the joy of the drive.
For enthusiasts seeking a pure, analog driving experience with the mechanical honesty and charm of the 1960s — without the constant tinkering of its British peers — this Datsun 2000 delivers exactly that.
