1 Oct 1972
Datsun’s heyday started here. Riding on the back of the 1600 (as well as the image enhancing 240Z, compact 1200 and later 240K models), its 180B replacement enjoyed a spectacular run of sales in Australia from the onset.
It also featured most of the 1600’s attributes, like independent rear suspension, but weight blunted its chuckability.
This time a four-door sedan (in Deluxe and GL guises) and a two-door SSS coupe were introduced.
The new L18 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine was mated to a four-speed manual or three-speed automatic gearbox, with the SSS going to a five-speed manual during ’75.
In early ’74 wrap-around front indicators, new tail-lights and cabin trim changes heralded a range-wide facelift, while a (fully imported, not locally manufactured) luxury GX sedan arrived in November ’74.
Running late in June ’75 was a GX wagon, followed by a minor trim and grille facelift in 1976.
The 180B proved popular right to its demise in October ’77, when the P810 200B range arrived.