Datsun Roadster Forum-311s.org

I am trying to determine how much a 5-spd and U20 engine that "ran when parked" (20 years ago) would be worth.
Thanks,
Paul

Whenever I see “ran when parked” I ask myself why was it parked then. Usually it’s a significant problem that caused it to be parked. Therefore I look at it as worth parts only and would pay accordingly. If you’re selling it would behoove you to show that it turns freely and the transmission selects each gear properly. Even with that I would still consider it to be valued at core prices. There are so many expensive parts that may need to be replaced it could end up being a boat anchor. That said, chances are that it was either the trans or the engine that took it off the road so maybe one or the other is at least rebuildable, so you can take that into your price consideration. Without assurances from the owner I would hesitate to pay more than $1500 for the pair and only if I was willing to take a loss. Then again I’m often flabbergasted at prices these days

Agreed with above. U20's and the 5speed are unique to Roadsters. They are excellent, well made and powerful/unique for their time. Thanks to Nissan and our great vendors, parts are still available for this relatively rare car. But they are becoming more expensive to rebuild, though most foreign older engines are as well. If you're selling, determine and post as much info as you can and set a price you think is reasonable. If you're buying, visit the vendors and see what it may cost in parts to do a complete rebuild and add in machine shop work so you know a max and how far you're willing to go. Engine swaps (SR, KA, V6/V8) are possible but also can/will be expensive in many other ways. For a U20, consider you may also need the carbs rebuilt, a better distributor, new rocker arms... the trans may need the fifth gear secured, sycros replaced (Porsche type) etc...

Don't be afraid to ask questions... we're a friendly bunch and are here to help.