1981 Datsun Pickup with a Honda K-Series

Tom Lingard built this 1981 Datsun Sunny Pickup in 2021. Soon after completion Speedhunters featured the wild truck. Now it can be found for sale on PistonHeads auctions.

The truck is no longer powered by a 1.2 L inline-four making 60 hp (44 kW). Instead it has a 2.4 L Honda K-series inline-four producing 270 hp (198 kW). The motor features a K24A bottom-end, ported K20 head, Skunk2 valve springs and retainers, modified Skunk2 Ultra intake manifold, and custom exhaust manifold. It runs on a Hondata ECU.

Behind the K-series motor is a custom adapter allowing for a Mazda RX-8 six-speed manual transmission. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a S13 rear end with a KAAZ 2-way differential.

The truck rides on a custom front subframe with HSD Nissan S13 coilovers and electric power steering. In back is a modified Nissan S13 subframe with a custom pushrod suspension and AVO coilovers. Deceleration is handled by Wilwood Dynamite four-piston front brakes and Nissan R33 GTR two-piston rear brakes.

One of the most obvious modifications is the CarbonSignal “Hakosuka” fiberglass front with Skyline “Hakosuka” headlights. The body is covered in MOTUL livery with custom forged carbon arches and front splitter. Under the arches are custom 14-inch wheels with Toyo Proxes R888 tires (185/60, 225/50).

Inside the cabin you find Sparco Sprint bucket seats with Takata four-point harnesses beside a custom center console. Behind the Nardi steering wheel is an AIM Strada digital display.

Video by thedownshiftchannel in 2021 showcasing the truck driving.

Source: Pistonheads