Datsun Laurel C130 1972 - 1977

Datsun C130 (Nissan Laurel, 2nd Generation – 1972–1977)

The Datsun C130 is the second generation of the Nissan Laurel, a mid-size luxury sedan sold in Japan as the Nissan Laurel and exported under the Datsun brand.

Key Features

  • Production years: 1972–1977
  • Production location: Musashimurayama, Japan
  • Body styles: 4-door sedan and 2-door hardtop coupé (pillarless design)
  • Length: approximately 4.69 to 4.79 metres
  • Drive layout: rear-wheel drive

Engines

  • 1.8L L18 inline-four (approx. 105 hp)
  • 2.0L G20 inline-four (approx. 115 hp)
  • 2.0L L20A inline-six (115–130 hp)
  • 2.6L L26 inline-six (approx. 140 hp)
  • 2.8L L28 inline-six (approx. 145 hp)
  • Diesel options: SD20 (2.0L inline-four) and SD22 (2.2L inline-four)

Transmission

  • 4-speed manual
  • 3-speed automatic

Performance (approximate)

  • Top speed: 160–180 km/h (depending on engine)
  • 0–100 km/h: 10–12 seconds with larger engines

Interior & Equipment

  • Spacious cabin for five passengers
  • Options included air conditioning, power steering, and automatic transmission on higher trims
  • Upholstery in vinyl or cloth
  • Safety: basic for the era (seat belts, reinforced bumpers)

Market & Positioning

  • Primarily sold in Japan and export markets (Australia as Datsun 200L, Europe and Asia)
  • Positioned as a luxury alternative to the Toyota Crown and a competitor to Mercedes-Benz and BMW in the mid-size segment
  • Known for a comfortable ride, reliable engineering, and smooth inline-six engines
  • Criticism: relatively high fuel consumption

Successor

  • Replaced in 1977 by the C230 series

Overall Impression The C130 was a comfortable, solid and stylish car with a classic 1970s look: lots of chrome, rounded shapes and a premium feel. It represented Nissan's serious push into the luxury market before the full transition to the Nissan brand in the 1980s.

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