We are happy to report a Best In Class win for this 1967 Datsun 2000 at the 2020 Boca Raton Concours D’Elegance in Florida. Typically reserved for European and American marques, Concours events rarely accept Japanese classics to enter and compete on the same field, let alone a Datsun.
Acquired by noted marque expert Mike Young several years ago, owner Steve Tetreault took it upon himself to bring the rare Datsun 2000 roadster to concours-level status. Steve recalls how his Datsun was even considered for the event:
“After hearing about the Boca Concours in April of 2019- I decided to submit an application for the Datsun. I soon realized the category that I would be in was named “European Class Sports car” ’65-’75. I completed the application and submitted photos as required in June 2019 and asked the question, “Where does a Japanese car fit here?” In October of that year I received an email requesting more information about the significance of the car, and a few other questions, including more detailed photos”
Steve soon received an email from the nominating committee that he was in fact in the Concours! The class name had been revised to: “Foreign Sports Late” 1965-1975. He was in good company as well: *1966 Lamborghini superleggero *1965 Porsche 356 cabriolet *1967 Jaguar XKE *1974 Alfa Romeo Montreal *1971 Mercedes 280SL pagoda *1970 Ford Capri Perana *1967 Datsun 2000 Sports
Steve describes his Concours experience:
“The 3 very astute judges asked to be left alone while they surveyed the exterior- top up windows up. They asked to see the engine room , open the doors and to explain the significance of the car and why I am showing it. I explained the rarity of a half year car, and that this car is #455 out 750 produced with factory options of 5 speed trans, Mikuni/Solex carbs, B cam, 7 quart finned oil pan, 4 bolt windscreen, and then referenced John Baker’s race credentials for Nissan. I completed the conversation with my true mission: To elevate the Datsun Marque and its ability to compete equally in any Concours D Elegance class such as the one I’m in.”
To be considered for a Concours and then go on to WIN best in class amongst impressive peers is an incredible achievement for Steve. All Datsun owners can share and benefit from this breakthrough as well: it’s a sign that our cars are being taken seriously and command respect. So kudos to your efforts Steve. We remember seeing your roadster at the Solvang Shows and now it is a superb ambassador! Here is SRL-0455 after a 6-month restoration by Steve, sporting vintage Enkei Comp 8 wheels, #665 Paint and fresh chrome:
Old photos I snapped from Solvang:
Speaking of Datsun Roadsters, this a good time to remind you about the big Solvang show coming up April 25th. I’ll post a flyer shortly.
