Datsun DS-5 Thrift

1954 DS-5 Model

The Datsun Thrift DS-5 is exactly the same as the previous DS-4 model, except for it's engine, and some minor trim pieces.

The grille on the first of the DS-5s is the same as the one used on the DS-4, and consists of six horizontal chrome bars with one vertical chrome bar in the middle. Later in the production run, sometime in 1954, the grille was changed and then featured thirteen thin vertical chrome plated bars.
As with the previous model, the car features rear hinged 'suicide doors' on the front and conventional front hinged doors at the back. Individual chrome letters on the front of the bonnet spell the Datsun name.

The biggest change to the vehicle was to it's engine. The DS-5 features the first all new Datsun engine since the war. The new engine is the Datsun D-10, which is essentially a stroked version of the old Type 7 engine. Still a side valve design, the new unit has a displacement of 860cc and produces 25hp. Top speed increases to 78kph.

The Datsun DS-5 Thrift was built during 1953 and part of 1954. It was replaced in 1954 by the all new Datsun DS-6.

Model Variations

Datsun DS-5 Thrift - Early Model

The early DS-5 Thrift used the same grille as the DS-4, with six horizontal bars and one vertical bar.

Datsun DS-5 Thrift - Late Model

The later version of the Datsun DS-5 had a different grille with vertical bars rather than horizontal ones.

1953 Datsun DS-5 Thrift Specifications

Length - 3750mm
Width - 1458mm
Height - 1535mm
Wheelbase - 2150mm
Weight - 930kg
Top speed - unknown
Transmission - Floor change 3 speed

Engine Specifications

Model - Type 7
Side Valve 4 Cylinder
Capacity - 722cc
Bore & Stroke 55x75mm
Power - 20hp@3600rpm
Torque- unknown
Compression - 6.5 : 1
Carburettor - unknown
Final drive - unknown

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