Nissan Idx Concept Reimagines Classic Datsun 510

NissanNissanJapan, 1932 > present159 models
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is looking back to its past for inspiration for its future for its IDx Freeflow and IDx Nismo concepts at the Tokyo Motor Show. While the cars have designs inspired by the Datsun 510Nissan Bluebird Gen.4Japan, 1967 > 197116 versions
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, or Bluebird in some markets, Nissan says that it is meant for people born after 1990 that are used to learning how to interact with new technology.

The IDx takes the basic shape of the 510/Bluebird and upgrades it to work in the modern world. It adapts the original car’s three-box shape with sharper lines and a shorter rear deck than hood. It has a two-stage front spoiler, one in body color and one in black that blends into the car, and the hood has a bulge on the IDx Freeflow and an intake on the Nismo. The sides are a flat slab of metal with very little creasing or shaping. There is a single crease below the doors on both cars, and the Nismo gets widened fenders that look like the bolt-on fenders common in amateur racing. The side panel slices into the rear side window, and a small panel connects the window to the rear glass.

The Nismo gets a special paint job inspired by the version that raced in the United States in the late 60s and early 70s in the Trans Am series against BMW 2002sBMW 2002Germany, 1968 > 19777 versions
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and Alfa Romeo GTAs.

For the interior, Nissan says that it wanted a "tight-fit skin,” which means that elements are kept simple and spare but remain useful. This is especially true of the Freeflow, which has a single gauge behind the steering wheel and few controls. It uses denim to cover the seats and dashboard. The Nismo gets a tachometer and speedometer, race seats and red Alcantara trim.

The Freeflow could be offered with a 1.2-liter to 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a CVT. The Nismo gets a 1.6-liter turbocharged, direct-injected four-cylinder with a CVT.

For now, the IDx is only a concept, and Nissan is not hinting at any production, but it is nice to see that the brand hears enthusiasts and knows that there is a desire among some buyers for an affordable performance car that seats four and looks good.