🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Datsun

Model:

310

Year:

1981

Model Code:

A210 (for North American market)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Datsun 310 was a subcompact car positioned as an affordable and reliable option, competing with domestic and import offerings of the era.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, and Chevrolet Chevette in the burgeoning subcompact segment.

Key Features:

Known for its fuel efficiency, practical design, and Datsun's reputation for reliability. The 1981 model likely featured front-wheel drive and a choice of sedan and hatchback body styles.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Full service, repair, diagnostics, troubleshooting, maintenance

Page Count:

Not specified, but comprehensive

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Emission Control, Fuel System, Clutch System, Manual Transaxle, Automatic Transaxle, Driveshaft & Axle, Suspension System, Steering System, Restraint System, Brake System, Body (Interior/Exterior), Body Electrical System, HVAC

Procedures Included:

Step-by-step repair instructions, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, maintenance tasks, wiring schematics

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and repairs, equivalent to dealership technician level

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, allowing for clear printing of individual pages

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

Likely the Datsun E15, a 1.5-liter (1488cc) inline-four cylinder engine.

Horsepower:

Estimated around 65-75 hp at 5,000-5,500 rpm (depending on specific tune and emissions equipment).

Torque:

Estimated around 75-85 lb-ft at 3,000-3,500 rpm.

Fuel System:

Typically a single-barrel or two-barrel downdraft carburetor. Emission control systems would also be present.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed manual transaxle

Optional Transmission:

3-speed automatic transaxle

Features:

Front-wheel drive transaxle design

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 94.3 inches (2395 mm)

Length:

Approximately 158.1 inches (4015 mm)

Width:

Approximately 62.6 inches (1590 mm)

Height:

Approximately 53.3 inches (1355 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1,900 - 2,100 lbs (860 - 950 kg), depending on body style and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

No specific official safety ratings (NHTSA, IIHS) are readily available for this model year and segment from that era. Focus would be on passive safety features.

Active Features:

Standard braking system (likely front disc, rear drum); Manual steering system.

Passive Features:

Seat belts, potentially side-impact beams in doors (though less advanced than modern standards).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio (optional), analog gauges for speed, tachometer (optional), fuel, temperature, oil pressure.

Driver Assistance:

None. This era of vehicle predates modern driver assistance systems.

Connectivity:

None. The vehicle is purely mechanical and does not feature any electronic connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Recommended every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specifics.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 20,000-30,000 miles. Refer to manual for specific plug type and gap.

Engine Oil Type:

API SF or SG category, viscosity grade typically 10W-30 or 10W-40. Refer to manual for exact specification.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant, typically mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific type.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Refer to manual for exact specification.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent ATF. Refer to manual for exact specification.

Common Issues:

Rust/corrosion, carburetor issues (gumming, tuning), ignition system components (points, condenser), aging rubber hoses and seals, potential transmission synchro wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Datsun (later Nissan) built its reputation on producing reliable, fuel-efficient, and affordable vehicles that challenged established automakers.

Model Evolution:

The Datsun 310 (A210) was part of the evolution of Datsun's subcompact offerings, succeeding earlier models and contributing to the brand's growth in international markets.

Production Years:

The Datsun 310 (A210 generation) was produced from roughly 1979 to 1982, with the 1981 model year being a key part of this generation.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1981 Datsun 310 are not prominent, Datsun as a brand was widely recognized for reliability and value in the late 1970s and early 1980s, often cited in consumer reports and automotive publications of the time.