1973 Datsun Sunny Ute – A Rare JDM Import
Discover Alex Ayzman’s 1973 Datsun Sunny Ute, a rare JDM import with classic styling and performance modifications. Explore its unique history and build details.
Mr2mivin
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Alex Ayzman - 1973 Datsun Sunny Ute
Instagram: @dats_izerman
Photographer: Marvin Recinos
Instagram: @mr2mivin
Performance Stats: 1500 lbs 54 hp
A Rare JDM Gem
My name is Alex, and I live in Northern California. I was born in Ukraine and immigrated to the U.S. in 1990. Cars have always fascinated me, but I couldn’t afford my first project until I was 20 years old. That first project was a 1971 Datsun 510 four-door, a car that closely resembled the Lada—essentially a Russian version of a Fiat—that my father owned when I was growing up. From that moment on, I was hooked on Datsuns. Over the years, I have owned multiple 510 sedans and wagons, eventually acquiring and parting out donor cars to supply parts for my builds.
While having my most recent Datsun 510 wagon built, I came across a Datsun Sunny Ute on Craigslist, and I just had to have it.
The Discovery of a Rare Ute
The Datsun Sunny Ute is something of a unicorn in the U.S. since it was never officially sold here, making it a rare find. This particular Sunny was imported by Japanese Classics LLC in Virginia. It spent a year in Seattle before the previous owner decided to sell it. That’s when I stepped in and brought it home.
1973 Datsun Sunny Ute: Modifications and Restoration
Transmission Upgrade
When I first brought the Sunny home, my number one priority was upgrading the four-speed transmission, which wasn’t ideal for freeway driving. I sourced a five-speed core, had it rebuilt, and installed it immediately.
Suspension and Interior
Next, I focused on restoring the suspension by replacing all bushings with OEM parts. The interior seats were reupholstered to refresh their aged appearance, bringing new life to the cabin.
Bodywork
The bodywork was completed in Japan before the truck was imported. The bed was sprayed with bedliner, and the bed hooks were removed and covered with filler. While it’s not flawless, the Sunny looks fantastic and has tons of character.
What Makes the Datsun Sunny Ute Unique?
Owning and driving this Datsun Sunny Ute is an absolute blast. Its lightweight 1,500 lbs frame combined with 54 horsepower makes for an engaging and nimble driving experience. Since these trucks are incredibly rare in the U.S., it gets a ton of attention wherever it goes.
1973 Datsun Sunny Ute: Build List
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Engine: 1.2-liter with dual Solex Mikuni carburetors
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Wheels & Tires: 13x7 SSR Longchamps with 18x60x13 Toyo tires
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Interior: OEM stock interior
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Suspension: Coilovers in the front, 1.5-inch lowering blocks in the rear
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Brakes: Stock brakes—discs in the front, drums in the rear
Who Worked on the Sunny?
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Transmission Rebuild: John Humphrey of San Jose, CA
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Seat Upholstery: @mv_auto_interiors in Mountain View, CA
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Custom 3D-Printed Air Horns: @bachmania
Future Plans for the Datsun Sunny Ute
I have ambitious plans for this Sunny Ute in the near future:
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Swap the engine for a fuel-injected 1.4-liter with individual throttle bodies (ITBs)
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Upgrade to an independent rear suspension (IRS)
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Drive and enjoy the truck as much as possible!
Shoutouts
A big thank you to the following people and shops for their help and support:
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Marcus (@marcusfryracing) – Helped bring the Sunny home and fixed the exhaust upon arrival.
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Tarek (@all_automotive_mtnview) – Keeps the Sunny running smoothly and fixes everything I manage to break.
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Rob (@zcargarage) – Handled the dyno tuning to get the most out of the Sunny’s setup.
Dream Car
If I could own any car, it would be a Datsun 510 coupe—an absolute classic with a strong presence in the JDM enthusiast community.
Conclusion
My 1973 Datsun Sunny Ute is more than just a rare import; it’s a passion project that continues to evolve. With future upgrades on the horizon, I can’t wait to see where this build takes me. Whether it’s turning heads at car meets or simply enjoying a weekend drive, this Sunny is here to stay.
Thanks to Stance Auto Magazine for allowing me to share my story and my build!
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UKTM no: UK00003572459
