Datsun Roadster Forum-311s.org

Hi all,
I joined this forum because I spotted a roadster a couple years ago and really can't stop thinking about buying one. I not a "convertible guy" but these little cars look like a load of fun to drive and are good looking. I am looking around for a nice 2000 1968 or newer.I have not driven or sat in one yet and hope that at 6'2" i fit well. Any others on here from NJ? Looks like a wealth of info on these pages.

Welcome!

6'4" is an easy fit with good sight lines in a high windshield car.

Seat tracks may be relocated up to 3" rearward, and seat rake adjusted backward as well.

This also helps to move the c/g and F-R weight balance rearward a bit.

The U20-powered 2000s run like scalded cats.

Welcome! You'll find nothing but a friendly group here ready to help. I can understand how you feel... there's something about a Roadster that just attracts you. Believe me, there's nothing like a convertible on a sunny day, especially in the mountains or on the coast. Driving a vintage car is a different experience. Buy the best car you can find/afford. There are a few things we can suggest that make a big difference in how the car operates. If you're interested in doing a restoration we can guide you there if desired. Hope you join the family!

Welcome aboard!
I can tell you I have a 69 2000 but wouldn't hesitate to own an older model or 1600 either.... There's one of this for sale up in your neck of the woods (NY) right now in the classified section ... looks pretty nice

Yep, high windshield model and 6'2" is an easy fit. Really depends on inseam/spine length, which can vary a LOT.
I thought removing center console would give me more room. Bad idea.
Reducing steering wheel diameter did the trick. (and I hated the thin rim on the stock wheel)
When I put the console back in years later I realized that in twisties, you steady yourself with your right elbow, so it is needed.
So, I re-upholstered it using a pair of womens' leather pants from Goodwill, but I am always the irreverent one! (shifter boot from a 280zx, billiard ball shift knob, homemade carbon fiber door and kick panels, the list goes on)
Oh, other tall guy thing: The stock rear view mirror is dropped down using a J bracket. I made mine go straight out, so it is in line with windshield frame, then removed all sun visors as they do me no good.

Welcome. Some thoughts:

1. Find one or two (hopefully both a 1600 and a 2000) and drive them to see if you still really want one. If you still want to buy one...

2. Find the best running, most complete car you can. Don't settle. Folks told me that 20 years ago, and I didn't listen. I now have a parts car and a project car. The only roadster driving I've done is minimal in friends' cars.

3. How much do you have to spend? Add 10 to 20-percent.

4. I love the early flat dash model, but appreciate the protection the later model high windshield model provides.

Good luck.

bouch1989 wrote: Wed Jun 19, 2024 10:01 am Hi all,
I joined this forum because I spotted a roadster a couple years ago and really can't stop thinking about buying one. I not a "convertible guy" but these little cars look like a load of fun to drive and are good looking. I am looking around for a nice 2000 1968 or newer.I have not driven or sat in one yet and hope that at 6'2" i fit well. Any others on here from NJ? Looks like a wealth of info on these pages.

Welcome! 6'2" should be fine in a "high windshield" or 68-70 roadster. For reference, here is JoeK sitting in my 1967.5 "low-windshield" roadster:


He's a tall guy, and in my car with stock seats he's above the windshield. In his '1968 2000 (below), that extra 4" of windshield height makes huge difference


There are several ways to lower your body into the car, like modifying the seat cushions, mounting the seats a few inches back, or even dropping the floor pans:


Some resources that are a must-read, including Buyer's Guides and Model Identification:
http://www.datsunroadster.com/MISC_PAGE ... _guide.htm
https://www.datsun.org/roadster/resourc ... guide.html
https://www.datsun.org/roadster/resourc ... guide.html





Enjoy The Ride!

I think Alvin meant to say 2” of extra windshield height

Those are gorgeous, I think they are Eric Straw's Lotus seats. oooh.