close up pics of a 'Monte Carlo' bumper?

Rob Gaskin

Rob Gaskin

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Albrecht said:
Something I've always found slightly bewildered about in the S30-series Z ownership 'scene' outside Japan is the lack of recognition of a period vernacular of modifications for the cars. It's odd.

The S30's contemporaries - like Mk.1 & Mk.2 Escorts, Porsche 911, Triumph TRs, 105-series ALFAs etc etc - all seem to have an accepted period 'menu' of what looked right and worked right in period, and therefore work now. In a lot of cases these were factory optional parts and/or parts that were aftermarket in period, and with reference to race & rally activities. It sometimes slips into cliche territory, but cliches usually become cliches because they work.

With the 'Monte' bumper, we are talking about a period factory part which was designed, made and sold to the general public as part of the homologation process which allowed Nissan to use it in rallying classes where it would otherwise be deemed illegal. Nissan tried several different configurations when adding spots and fogs to the cars for serious rally work, but they were all deemed unsatisfactory for one reason or another (too low, too vulnerable, causing panel conflict etc) and so the 'Monte-Carlo' style or 'drop' bumper was their most practical solution. So it has purpose, and it has history. It's not to everyone's taste, but I don't see it as incongruous or ugly. Combined with other period-sympathetic mods it can look very purposeful and - with some decent lights mounted on it - would certainly work as intended on a good fast road specced car.

Here's what Nissan and its drivers found wanting in 1970:


View attachment 36316
View attachment 36317
Click to expand...

Not to mention the Safari 'frog eyes'.
 
Rob Gaskin

Rob Gaskin

Treasurer
Staff member
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If the Datsun bonnet hinged from the rear the lights could be mounted on the bumper and look neater IMO. Has anyone ever altered the hinging? It would also make the car easier to work on.
 
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