1972 Datsun 720 King Cab 2WD review from North America
"The best truck Datsun ever made!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Nothing that I would consider serious or unusual. A problem with the hydraulic clutch cylinder was repaired under warranty.
General comments?
This was the best truck that I have ever owned!
I could get from LA to San Francisco on 10 gallons of #2 diesel, a 405 mile trip! Nothing I have ever owned before or since could get this kind of fuel economy.
The engine ran 150,000 miles before I had to do anything to it, then it was starting to use oil. New rings, new rod bearings (the mains were still at factory tolerance, so I left them alone) and it was as good as new.
The only downside to this truck was the noisy ride. With the heater blower running while driving at freeway speeds, the sound level measured 85db (A weighted).
At 175,000 miles, the transmission started making worn bearing noises, and the rear wheel brake cylinders were starting to leak. I would have repaired these items and kept this truck going if I did not need four wheel drive. I still sometimes wish that I had kept it.
Recommended reviews
| The best truck ever made |
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| Neat |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Year of manufacture | 1972 |
| First year of ownership | 1972 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | SD 22 diesel Manual |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 175000 miles |
| Previous car | Volkswagen Squareback |
| Date of Entry | 16th April, 2004 |