Datsun’s 1979 310‑GX Tested: A Front‑Wheel‑Drive Fighter With Flaws
After more than 2,000 miles behind the wheel, the new 310‑GX shows Datsun’s ambition but also a host of everyday annoyances.
Datsun’s New Front‑Wheel‑Drive Weapon
Datsun is pushing hard to keep its small‑car market share. The May 1979 issue of Car and Driver notes an extensive advertising campaign for the new 310, which appears in TV spots, magazine spreads and billboards. The 310 is the company’s second front‑wheel‑drive sedan, succeeding the ill‑fated F‑10.
Model Lineup and Mechanical Basics
The 310 family currently consists of two three‑door sedans: the standard 310 sedan and the sportier 310‑GX, the subject of this test. Both share a 1,397 cc transverse four‑cylinder engine driving the front wheels, independent suspension with MacPherson struts up front, and trailing arms in the rear.
From Banana‑Shaped F‑10 to Wedge‑Profile 310
Visually, the 310 abandons the “banana‑with‑windows” look of the F‑10 for a wedge shape. It is five inches longer, four inches wider, yet only 80 lb heavier at 2,600 lb. Inside, velour seats, thick carpeting and a color‑keyed dash aim at American tastes.
Standard Equipment
Every 310, regardless of trim, includes reclining seats, a split‑back folding rear seat, a passenger‑bucket slider, quartz clock, remote hatch opener, side‑window defrosters, intermittent wipers, power brakes, remote fuel‑filler opener, rear defogger and a day‑night mirror. The sedan adds console‑mounted controls for flip‑out rear windows.
The GX version adds roll‑down rear quarter‑windows, a rear wiper‑washer, a tachometer, a five‑speed transmission, a four‑spoke steering wheel and wider 165/70‑13 tires.
Space and Comfort: A Mixed Bag
While the widened body improves front‑seat width, rear‑seat legroom remains “severely short supply,” according to the test. Competing front‑drive cars with the same wheelbase offer more rear space.
Everyday Usability Issues
The optional AM/FM radio suffers from poor reception and speakers mounted under the dash that “garble” music at higher volumes. The heating system is described as “marginally effective,” and the defroster is “as quiet as an idling 747,” making cabin comfort a challenge.
Overall Assessment
After logging over 2,000 miles, the reviewers conclude that the 310‑GX, despite its aggressive marketing and upgraded features, feels still not in touch with reality. It appears as “little more than an F‑10 that fell to earth,” struggling to compete with other small‑car contenders such as the Rabbit, Strada, Omni/Horizon, Fiesta, Civic and GM’s new X‑body compacts.
