1981 Datsun 810 Maxima Sedan (Diesel)

This 1981 Datsun 810 Maxima Sedan Diesel is a remarkably preserved, ultra-low-mileage example of one of the earliest and most upscale Japanese luxury sedans sold in the United States — a significant model that helped establish Nissan/Datsun as a credible player in the premium family-car segment during the early 1980s fuel-conscious era. Originally delivered new through Eau Claire Datsun in Wisconsin, the car was acquired by its most recent private owner via Bring a Trailer in April 2023 before passing to the selling dealer. Showing just 12,000 believable documented miles, it remains in highly original condition with light patina consistent with careful, limited use.

Finished in bright silver with complementary yellow pinstripes, the Maxima presents clean, understated 1980s executive styling enhanced by quad rectangular headlights, a classic Datsun hood ornament, black bumper covers, bright trim, intermittent wipers, a power antenna, and a desirable factory power-operated sunroof. The selling dealer recently replaced the right-front turn-signal lens, with close-up gallery photos revealing typical minor finish blemishes expected on a 40+-year-old survivor.

The car rides on silver-finished 14-inch alloy wheels mounted with 185/70 Douglas All-Season tires (some wheel blemishes visible in photos), delivering a balanced and composed stance thanks to its independent rear suspension. Four-wheel disc brakes provide strong, confident stopping power — an advanced feature for the class at the time.

Power comes from Nissan’s smooth and famously durable 2.8-liter LD28 inline-six diesel engine, paired with a three-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the rear wheels. This torquey, fuel-efficient powertrain was ideal for long-distance cruising and delivered excellent real-world economy during the second oil crisis period. The seller notes some underside corrosion, with additional underbody photos provided in the gallery for transparency.

The spacious and well-appointed interior seats five comfortably, featuring front bucket seats and a rear bench upholstered in gray cloth, with matching dashboard, headliner, and door panels. Factory luxury equipment includes air conditioning, cruise control, rear window defroster, power windows, power mirrors, power door locks, and a factory AM/FM/cassette stereo. The two-spoke steering wheel fronts straightforward analog instrumentation: an 85-mph speedometer flanked by coolant temperature and fuel gauges, with the ultra-low six-digit odometer confirming the car’s pampered history. The seller notes minor interior wear and discoloration on the seat upholstery and front-left door panel, plus a non-matching glovebox door color — honest details on an otherwise well-preserved example.

A standout no-reserve 1981 Datsun 810 Maxima Diesel — combining verified 12,000-mile status, original Wisconsin delivery, attractive silver-with-sunroof presentation, comprehensive factory luxury and convenience features (power sunroof, A/C, cruise, power accessories, cassette stereo), clean Carfax report (no accidents or reported damage), and a clean Illinois title. This outstanding survivor captures an interesting transitional moment in automotive history: Japanese engineering reliability, rear-wheel-drive refinement, impressive diesel efficiency, and emerging premium aspirations — all in a remarkably original, low-mile package.