Image of 1986 Nissan 720, sourced from www.caranddriver.com , Image Link.

Unearthing the Charm of the 1986 Nissan 720

The 1986 Nissan 720 stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic pickup trucks. Born from the assembly lines of a manufacturer renowned for reliability and innovation, the Nissan 720, also known as the Datsun 720 before Nissan phased out the Datsun brand in many countries, carved its niche in the compact truck segment. As a vehicle that bridged the gap between utilitarian workhorses and comfortable daily drivers, the 720 captured the hearts of many. A unique fact that adds to its storied history is that it was one of the last pickups to bear the Datsun badge, marking the end of an era.

Design and Innovation

With its boxy yet functional exterior, the 1986 Nissan 720 was designed with purpose in mind. Its straight lines and no-nonsense stance spoke to its work-ready character, while subtle chrome accents and available stripe packages added a touch of style. Inside, the cabin offered a straightforward layout with durable materials meant to withstand the rigors of daily use. Technological features were modest by today's standards but included amenities like an AM/FM radio and air conditioning, which were considered luxuries in trucks at that time. The color palette ranged from understated hues to bolder tones, with shades like Bright Blue Metallic and Sunfire Red capturing attention on the road. The most iconic body style was arguably the King Cab variant, offering additional storage space behind the front seats and becoming a popular choice for those needing extra room without stepping up to a full-size truck.

Historical Significance

The 1986 Nissan 720 didn't just serve as a reliable mode of transport; it also played a pivotal role in establishing compact trucks as versatile vehicles suitable for both work and leisure. It set itself apart with a balanced combination of durability, comfort, and affordability, influencing the design philosophy of future compact pickups. Its legacy is evident in how today's mid-size trucks continue to offer similar attributes for a modern audience.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Nissan 720 featured engines that ranged from a modest 2.0-liter four-cylinder to a more robust 2.4-liter Z24 engine. While not built for speed, with top speeds hovering around the modest highway limits and acceleration times that reminded you this was no sports car, it provided sufficient power for everyday tasks. The truck's handling was characterized by a straightforward rear-wheel-drive setup, with optional four-wheel drive for tackling tougher terrain. Drivers often praised the 720 for its honest driving dynamics, offering a ride that was firm yet manageable over bumps, and steering that was responsive enough for confident maneuvering.

Ownership Experience

The 1986 Nissan 720 served various roles from a dependable daily driver to a weekend warrior at local car shows. Its reputation for reliability meant that maintenance was typically straightforward, with parts being readily available and repairs not requiring specialized knowledge. This accessibility made it an ideal choice for those looking for a classic truck without the hassle of constant upkeep.

Fun Facts

The Nissan 720 had its share of quirks and accolades. For instance, it was one of the first pickups to offer an optional Sport Truck package, which included special graphics and trim levels. While it may not have held any speed records, it certainly set benchmarks for what owners could expect from a compact truck's performance. Criticisms were few but typically centered around its utilitarian comfort levels and modest power output.

Collector's Information

Today, the value range for a well-preserved 1986 Nissan 720 can vary significantly based on condition, mileage, and originality. Estimates suggest that tens of thousands were produced, but exact numbers are hard to come by. As for price trends, well-maintained examples have seen a steady appreciation in value as nostalgia for '80s vehicles grows, with some fetching prices in the range of $5,000 to $15,000 depending on various factors.

Conclusion

The 1986 Nissan 720 may not be the flashiest or fastest classic vehicle out there, but its blend of practicality, durability, and charm ensures its place in automotive history. Whether it's cherished by collectors or still earning its keep on local roads, this compact pickup remains a beloved icon of its era. The Nissan 720 reminds us that sometimes, simplicity and reliability are all you need to create a lasting legacy.

1986 Nissan 720 Molded Door Seals. Exact fit, with clips and mitered ends-LM 131Molded Door Seals. Exact fit, with clips and mitered ends. Pair R&L