Award-Winning 1974 Datsun Sunny “Hakotora” Truck Is Available on eBay
Culture
Classics
Builders
Asian
June 30, 2016
June 30, 2016

What would a Skyline GTR look like in truck form, straight from the Nissan race factory? That question was Dominic Le’s inspiration for the creation of the extraordinary custom 1974 Datsun Sunny Hakotora pickup now for sale on eBay - opens in new window or tab.. Le is the managing partner of Chasing Js - opens in new window or tab., a group of aficionados and builders dedicated to resto-mod Japanese classics.
The project started with a 1974 Datsun Sunny truck that was never offered in America, and ended in a visionary custom vehicle that racked up awards at SEMA 2015 and a feature spot on Jay Leno’s Garage. What about the name? Hakosuka is the nickname for the GT-R Skyline, which first appeared in 1969. The Sunny is called the Sanitora as a truck (from what we can gather). Put the two together to get “Hakotora.” (In North America, Sunny later became the Sentra.)

The list of impeccable revisions is long and impressive. See the listing for a complete rundown - opens in new window or tab.. The front end is now carbon fiber. The fenders, hood, and nose panel pieces come from Japan’s 09 racing kit, while the lighting components were purchased new as Skyline products from Japan. The body was meticulously straightened and smoothed to provide its clean flowing lines.

The truck bed is re-floored with carbon fiber panels and trimmed in brushed aluminum. The truck's tailgate is a carbon composite. Factory tailgate latches were left intact. The engine bay is just as well crafted as the car's exterior.

A custom Skyline dashboard and center console were fitted to the truck, and adorned with Marshall gauges—and complimented by a set of Autolook lowback race bucket seats and a Nardi wheel.

The right-hand-drive turnkey vehicle—with 450 horsepower on tap—was legally imported and is completely street legal, complete with California title and smog exemption. With seven days left in the auction, the world’s coolest Japanese El Camino - opens in new window or tab. has received 37 bids, carrying the price to $26,000 and counting.
Share your feedback
This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.
