Down Memory Lane with the Nissan Navara
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The Rich History of the Nissan Navara
The Early Years of the Nissan Navara
The Nissan Navara, a modern pick-up truck, has its roots tracing back to the early 1930s when Datsun initiated production of commercial vehicles. With a legacy of over eighty years, the Navara stands as a formidable competitor against models like the Toyota Hilux.
1930s
In 1933, the Datsun 12 marked the debut of Datsun's small commercial vehicles, characterized by:
- Length: 2,770mm
- Engine: 748cc side valve engine
- Power: 12 horsepower
- Transmission: Small floor-change 3-speed
By the late 1930s, Datsun had expanded its production to three commercial vehicles, including the Datsun 17T, which remained in production until December 1943.
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1940s
Production was halted for three years due to World War II, resuming in 1946 with a modified Datsun 17T, now known as the Datsun 1121. Changes included:
- Grille: Replaced with a sheet of steel
- Bumper: Formed from a simple steel bar
By the end of the 1940s, Datsun's styling evolved with more curves and chrome, although the Datsun 3135 retained the mechanics of its pre-war predecessor.
1950s
As the economy improved, Nissan produced the new D10 engine (860cc), generating 20 – 25 horsepower, leading to models like the Datsun 6147 and Datsun 120.
The 1957 Datsun 220 was significant, being the first pick-up with a modern engine, producing 34 horsepower and featuring a 12-volt electrical system.
1960s
The Datsun 320, equipped with a robust 60hp 1,189cc engine, became a sales success and built a reputation for durability.
In 1965, the Datsun 520 introduced modern features like a top-padded dashboard and a new 1,299cc engine producing 67hp.
1970s
In 1972, the Datsun 620 became the first to offer King Cab and Double Cab styles, powered by a 77 horsepower engine with a top speed of 135 km/h.
By 1979, the Datsun 720 was introduced, featuring a 4WD variant for recreational use.
1980s
The launch of the Nissan D21, also known as the Navara, in 1985 introduced a V6 engine and power steering as standard across all models.
Variants included rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive options, with a limited slip differential standard on the SE trim 4WD variant.
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1990s
The 1997 D22 series featured multiple cab options and a variety of engines, from a 2.0-liter petrol to a 3.2-liter diesel.
The Navara became known for its numerous identities globally.
2000s
The D40 series, introduced in 2005, was a larger mid-size pick-up that shared its underpinnings with the third-generation Pathfinder.
2010s
In 2016, Nissan unveiled the all-new third-generation Navara.
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