Datsun 223 Truck

1961 223 Model

The Datsun 223 went into production in 1961 and was the final vehicle in the range that had begun with the Datsun 120 back in 1955.

Whilst at first glance the 223 may look very similar to it's predecessor the 222, there are actually a large number of significant differences between the two.
The most significant change is that the 223 has a completely new chassis and suspension system. The previous 222 model had a reverse Elliot I beam front suspension set up with leaf springs at the front. For the new 223 there is an independant front suspension system with height adjustable torsion bars. This is the same system that will be used in the following 320 series trucks, though not the same chassis.

Visually the biggest change to the truck is the grille. It is a different design with Datsun in the centre at the top and the words Torsion Bar written underneath.

The other big change is the new E-1 engine. Thanks to a new carburetor and a new cylinder head design the E-1 offers a 12hp increase over the E engine in the 222.

Badges on the sides say Datsun 1200, and under them is a round yellow badge that says 60hp.

Production of the 223 finishes in July 1961.

Model Variations

Datsun 222

The 222 is the standard short wheel base model.

Datsun VG223

The VG223 was a delivery van version of the 222 truck. The VG223 has two side strips that run parallel to each other along the back guards and come together to a point on the doors.

Datsun U223

The U223 was a double cab version of the 222 truck. It featured two rows of seats and a substantially smaller cargo area. The U223 has side strips that run the full length of the side of the vehicle, the previous U222 had no side strips.

1961 Datsun 223 Specifications

Length - 4015mm
Width - 1480mm
Height - 1650mm
Wheelbase - 2520mm
Weight - 920kg
Top speed - 1000 unknown
- 1200 120kph
Transmission - Column change 4 speed
Final drive
1000 - unknown
1200 - 4.875 : 1

C Series Engine Specifications

1000 Engine
Model - C-1
OHV 4 Cylinder
Capacity - 988cc
Bore & Stroke 73x59mm
Power - 45bhp@4600rpm
Torque - 7.2kg/m@4000rpm
Compression - 8.0 : 1
Carburettor - Nikki dual throat down draught

E Series Engine Specifications

1200 Engine
Model - E-1
OHV 4 Cylinder
Capacity - 1189cc
Bore & Stroke 73x71mm
Power - 60bhp@4800rpm
Torque- 67ft/lb@3600rpm
Compression - 8.2 : 1
Carburettor - Nikki 2D-30C dual throat down draught

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