I am thinking of buying a Datsun 1600 - which year model is best and what are the differences?

Datsun 1600s were sold in Australia from 1968 to 1973 and as a general rule the later model ones are in the best nick if they have been kept somewhat standard. If you are buying a modifed 1600 though you might get one that has been fixed up body wise and could still be an earlier model, so it shouldnt matter. The '68 had a different grille, smaller back lights, converging wipers and a flatter style dash. The '69 had the new grille, parallel wipers and larger back lights but still the old dash. '70 onwards have the later dash with individual holes for the gauges. I'm not sure what mechanical differences there may have been between the models. Oh and dont forget the 4-door wagon shape too, harder to find and with a live rear axel but lots of potential for traction over the independent rear end of the sedan. Whatever year model or body shape you choose, go over it VERY thorougly first and check for rust - the most common areas are at the bottom of the panels (doors, guards), in the boot, ...  more