Nissan’s 1972 lineup reflects a time when automakers balanced rising performance expectations with practical everyday needs across global markets. From sporty coupes to compact commuters, that year’s models show how design and engineering targeted different buyers around the world.
There are 9 1972 Nissan Car Models, ranging from the 240Z to the Sunny. For each model you’ll find below entries organized by Market name, Body style, Engine (L) so you can quickly compare where each version was sold and what powertrains it used — you’ll find below.
What engine sizes were available across the 1972 Nissan models?
Engine offerings in 1972 covered small economy units up to larger sport engines: compact models typically used sub‑1.5L fours, while performance cars like the 240Z used a larger inline‑six; the Engine (L) column in the list shows the specific displacements for easy comparison.
How can I verify which model name was used in my country?
Check the Market name column in the table for region‑specific badging, and cross‑reference with period brochures, national vehicle registries, or owners’ clubs; VIN decoding and dedicated enthusiast forums also help confirm which trims and names applied in your country.
1972 Nissan Car Models
| Model | Market name | Body style | Engine (L) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 240Z | Datsun 240Z / Nissan Fairlady Z | 2-door coupe | 2.4 |
| 510 | Datsun 510 | 2-door coupe / 4-door sedan / wagon | 1.6 |
| Sunny | Datsun Sunny / Datsun 1200 (B110) | 2-door coupe / 4-door sedan / wagon | 1.2 |
| Cherry | Datsun Cherry / Nissan Cherry (N10) | 2-door coupe / 4-door sedan / hatchback | 1.2 |
| Bluebird 610 | Datsun 160J / Datsun 180B (Bluebird 610) | 4-door sedan / 2-door coupe / wagon | 1.6-1.8 |
| Skyline (C10) | Nissan Skyline (C10) / “Hakosuka” | 2-door coupe / 4-door sedan | 2.0 |
| Laurel (C130) | Nissan Laurel | 2-door coupe / 4-door sedan | 1.8-2.0 |
| Cedric (430) | Nissan Cedric | 4-door sedan / wagon | 2.0-2.4 |
| Gloria | Nissan Gloria | 4-door sedan | 2.0-2.4 |
Images and Descriptions
240Z
Produced 1970–1978 and sold globally as the Datsun 240Z (Fairlady Z in Japan). Long-hood, fastback sports coupe with an inline-six, distinctive fastback profile and roomy boot. Notable as an affordable, export-success Japanese sports car that launched the Z line.
510
Built 1968–1973 and popular in the USA, Europe and Japan. Boxy compact with independent rear suspension and round headlamps; easy to spot by its squared stance. Famous for club racing and a devoted enthusiast following.
Sunny
The B110 Sunny (1970–1973) was sold worldwide as the Datsun 1200. Small, economical rear-wheel-drive car with simple, rounded styling. Notable for its ubiquity, light weight and strong aftermarket support for restorers and racers.
Cherry
Introduced 1970 and marketed through the mid-1970s, the Cherry was Nissan’s small front-wheel-drive export in many markets. Identified by its compact profile and early hatchback body; notable as one of Nissan’s first modern, front-drive family cars for export.
Bluebird 610
Produced 1971–1976 and sold under Bluebird and Datsun names depending on market. Mid-size, rear-wheel-drive family car with a more modern squared styling than the 510. Notable as the Bluebird successor with a range of 1.6–1.8L engines for export markets.
Skyline (C10)
Built 1968–1972 and nicknamed “Hakosuka” by enthusiasts. Boxy, muscular lines with twin round taillights on sport variants; the 2.0L GT and GT-R derivatives are famous for motorsport pedigree. Key ID: distinct squared roofline and classic rear lights.
Laurel (C130)
Laurel C130 launched in 1972 and produced into the late 1970s. A mid/upper-mid executive car positioned between Skyline and Cedric, recognizable by its longer wheelbase and more luxurious trim. Offered with 1.8–2.0L engines for different markets.
Cedric (430)
The Cedric 430 series (early 1970s) was Nissan’s full-size family/executive car sold in Japan and select export markets. Known for roomy interiors and formal styling, it was offered with 2.0–2.4L engines and served as a platform for taxis, limousines and higher-spec passenger cars.
Gloria
Sister model to the Cedric in the early 1970s, the Gloria targeted private buyers wanting luxury features. Produced around 1971–1975 in this generation, notable for upscale trim, similar mechanicals to the Cedric and export to a few markets under Nissan badging.
