Datsun Bakkie
Known as the Sunny Truck when it was first launched in 1971, Datsun’s 1400 pickup soon became known simply as a 1400 bakkie, and for 37 years it ruled the roads and building sites of South Africa until it was retired and ultimately replaced by the Nissan NP200 in 2008.
During its production run (it was built right here in South Africa at Datsun’s Rosslyn Plant) it underwent many changes, including a rebrand from Datsun to Nissan, with the most significant mechanical change being the introduction of a five-speed manual gearbox. Further changes included the addition of power-assisted disc brakes, and also ultimately a roof height extension which was needed to accommodate the taller than world average South African height.
Sporty as well as tough
One of the most popular later models was the 1400 Sports Model, which was marketed as the “Champ” in South Africa, although be it under the Nissan name. This sports model included new look sporty side stripes, bucket seats, a tachometer and a centrally placed handbrake. Most of the 1400 bakkies for sale as pre-owned vehicles today are “Champ” model variants.
Nissan Champ
Always a working vehicle
Ultimately though, no matter what year model, special edition, model variant or trim level, the 1400 Datsun bakkie was a workhorse at heart. Here in South Africa it was known in Afrikaans as the ”kannie dood nie”, which in English simply means “cannot die”. This is an endearing testament to its rugged reliability, and to this day you’ll still see these amazing vehicles on South African roads, many of which are still being used as Light Delivery vehicles, which was ultimately what they were designed and built to be.
Datsun 1400 Bakkie
Did You Know? The old Datsun bakkie, and later the Nissan 1400 and Nissan 1400 Champ, was the only Rear-Wheel Drive bakkie in South Africa at the time. This was such a major selling point for Nissan-Datsun that they even had an advertising payoff line that said “put the power where the load is”.
Tags: Datsun
