Datsun Bluebird

Introduction

In May 1981 the 200B was replaced with the Bluebird. The styling of the Bluebird moved towards a more European look with lower waistlines and simple lines. Retaining much of the running gear from the 200B, with a front engine, rear drive layout.

The initial reaction to the Bluebird was pretty ordinary, many dubbing the newcomer the "Blandbird". But despite its detractors, it became a very important part of the Datsun/Nissan sales success through the early 1980's, proving particularly popular with fleet buyers.

The same L20B engine was carried over as well as gearbox and suspension. Released as a sedan and wagon only. The trim levels were GL, GX for the sedan and wagon with a luxury LX sedan model which featured alloy wheels, a 5-speed gearbox and shadow tone paint as an option. All models were locally assembled.

A two door SSS hardtop was released in overseas market. The styling of the interior of the Bluebird was also more in keeping with the exterior with the fussiness of previous dashboards being replaced by a simple and modern instrument panel that included an 'econometer'.

The seats were again the unique design that was introduced as part of the revised 200B. As with the 200B SX, in June 1982 a sportier version of the Bluebird was introduced. A unique 'flags' decal on the side signified all the countries the Bluebird was sold in. Called the Bluebird TRX it featured front and rear spoilers, a front centre roof mounted antenna, alloy wheels and new trim and instruments.

As with the LX, the TRX was available with a 5-speed gearbox. In September 1983, the Series II Bluebird was released with revised colour coded bumpers and a shovel nose styled grille. On the sedans the rear lights were also revised. In April 1985 the Series III Bluebird introduced a new engine (borrowed from the Nissan Gazelle). The engine was a twin spark (two spark plugs per cylinder). The shovel nose grille was revised and the indicators were frosted white cover with amber lamps.

The model changes were also changed from GL and GX to GXE, and GXE Ultra. The TRX badge remained. Limited optioned up models of the Bluebird sedan and wagons were introduced after 1982. Called the Venturer, these were models that had air-conditioning as standard. The Bluebird was replaced in 1986 by the 4 cylinder version of the Skyline - the Pintara.