Why is the Datsun 1600 such a good rally car?

What makes the Datsun 1600 such a popular rally car and such a good car to drive?
A take on it from a former McLaren vehicle dynamics engineer.
#rally #rallycar #classiccars #datsun1600 #datsun #p510 #suspension #engineering #vehicledynamics

[@christophercatto7184]

So glad you're showing how the suspension works. This indeed defines (makes or breaks) how a car handles at the limit.

[@BattenCars]

Thanks Chris, it's an interesting rabbit hole as you know. Simple ideas and complex interactions. I love it.

[@broughxtreme]

Very basic explanasion, but perfect. I have a Datto 710 (160j SSS) when I was driving it the other day (I don't drive it enough) I was really noticing how much the rear tucked in when I lifted mid-turn, now I understand (even after a life time of speedway racing). Next time out I will try the power into the turns trick too. I also own N.Z.'s very first 240Z. Only problem I find with those rear ends is that they hang on so well on the tarmac that when they do let go there's no catching them. As opposed to the old 1200's, they were SO predictable.

[@DamienSawyer]

Sounds great

[@BattenCars]

Not as good as you on the piano 🤩

[@johngibson3837]

Hey up mate had a1600sss rally car in early 80s even on test drive before buying it felt totally comfortable sliding anywhere and anytime loved it and even more after fitting a 5.1 slippery diff, back then people said the escorts were better rally car's but didn't handle as well

[@BattenCars]

Very cool. Was it a two door?

[@claytonmarden7375]

We were very lucky the paddock Datto didn’t reach 200kph or we would have had to deal with all the “slush in the steering box “ 😂😂😂
Awesome vid mate👍👍
Do you have a link where I can purchase a micron increment tape measure.

[@BattenCars]

😂😂😂. Muchas gracias amigo
That's a good idea for our first merch line. Batten cars micron measuring tape t-shirt 😅

[@Australian_Kid]

Cool car

[@BattenCars]

Thanks. Cool plane and channel name 😉

[@Neriusification]

You can adjust the slush in the steering box right? Mine is quite minimal

[@BattenCars]

Yep you can but it's a trade-off with friction - and still won't be as good as a rack 👍

[@13x10s]

I clicked on this vid cause it had 510 views at the time .

[@BattenCars]

Aha, I see what you did there 😂😂