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John Paul has created an awesome Datsun 510. Purists may question the engine choice, but no one can question the passion and effort that has gone into creating this car. I like it. a lot. I think the engine choice is ideal. Moving to the interior the first thing you see is the Nardi Deep Corn steering wheel. It is mounted on an RG quick release to make entry and egress easy for JPs 6’9” frame. The Kirkey Deluxe aluminum race seats are fixed in place – meaning that someone like me at 5’11” will never be able to reach the wheel or pedals. Even if offered, it is unlikely I could drive this car very far or very long. The aluminum dash was laser cut by Dan Kittmer and it houses Autometer sport comp ultra lights speedo, tachometer, oil pressure, water temperature, and fuel level gauges. A future addition to the gauge cluster will be an Innovate wide band gauge.
The dash is uncluttered, just like the rest of the car. Basic gauges to monitor the engine. No sound system – apart from the engine howl through the 2.5″ custom exhaust.
Subtle, yet it looks like a predator.
The view from the front is all business!
JP has had the support of so many people in this process. He thanks them all. It is not done, because what car is ever done, but it is licensed and has been out to the track. It has participated in a Time Attack competition. The car sounds awesome and it will drive incredibly well. I had to laugh as John Paul described his track day as one in which the rear end wanted to pass the front. That is something that can be fixed with a few hours with a suspension specialist. This car is a product of massive effort from a number of folks. I think it is a beautiful amalgamation of components. The classic Datsun mated to a Honda drivetrain. I like it. But the final word belongs to John Paul’s dad, Mike, who loves the 510 but was not sure about that Honda drivetrain. After seeing it in action on track and going for a ride along Mike commented that he was “proud and happy that nothing broke”. That is the reliability that JP was going for! Datsun 510 and Honda F20C heart – there is no question. He is absolutely sure! This is the right match for his car.
