1978 | Datsun 140J

“Do it in a Datsun”

1978 Datsun Violet Group 4 Rally car

Ex Dawson Auto Developments Team Car

Ready for the toughest rallies

The Datsun Violet, introduced in the early 1970s, became an unexpected rallying legend, embodying Nissan’s philosophy of blending affordability with rugged performance. Designed as a compact sedan, its lightweight body, rear-wheel drive, and reliable L-series engines made it a favorite among privateers and factory-backed teams. The Violet’s rally success was highlighted by 4 victories in the East African Safari Rally, where its durability and adaptability to harsh conditions earned praise from drivers and mechanics alike. Piloted by legends such as Shekhar Mehta, who secured multiple Safari Rally wins in the Violet, the car proved its mettle against more established European rivals.

The car we are offering was reportedly built and run in Group 2 by Andy Dawson. Dawson, a highly respected figure in British motorsport is best known for his successful career as both a rally driver and a team principal who led the works Datsun team and the works-supported Audi 555 team, during which time three World Champions drove his cars. The Datsun Violet, especially in its Group 4 form, was a competitive car in the early 1980s, and Dawson played a key role in its development and success through his company, Dawson Auto Developments (DAD).

In 2012 the car was completely rebuilt to full Group 4 specifications on a new body and entered in the Rally du Maroc, the Rally du Senegal, Neige et Glace, Legends Boucles de Bastogne and the French Rally championship.  Its most recent rally was the Terres de Vaucluses in 2023 after which the car was completely inspected, maintained and ready for new adventures. The car would be a great choice for any rally of choice, ranging from regularity events on tarmac to serious speed stages on gravel. Whatever is on your bucket list, this car is capable of it. Monte Carlo Historique, The Eiffel Rally Festival, The East African Safari Rally and many more.

Some specs

Drivetrain

2L DOHC 16 valve engine 280 Bhp, only 2000 kms.

Alloy head

2x Weber 48 DCOE

Tubular exhaust headers

Quaife 5 speed gearbox

Atlas rear axle

Limited slip differential

Chassis/Body

Completely welded through and reinforced

RACB Certified Thiebaut Racing full roll cage

Uniball suspension

Bilstein shock absorbers

General

100L ATL fuel cell

Brantz Tripmeter

Airplane style switches / circuit breakers

Adjustable brake balance

Spares

6 Spare wheels

Various body parts

The original DAD Gp2 Body

By separate negotiation

Spare engine 250 Bhp one event only