Economy models like the Honda Civic - opens in new window or tab. and sports cars like the Datsun 240Z - opens in new window or tab. are well-known pioneering models for Japanese automakers. However, since the mid-1960s, Japanese carmakers have also been exporting practical and affordable compact pickups to the US.
Today, trucks like the 1984 Datsun 720 King Cab 4x4 recently for sale on eBay Motors in Pacific, Mo., are coveted collectors’ vehicles.
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Compact pickups from Toyota and Nissan were a sharp contrast to full-size trucks from the Big Three. Instead of thirsty V-8s, the Japanese alternative typically came equipped with four-cylinder engines. Their smaller dimensions made them more maneuverable in urban environments. But they were also popular as runabouts on farms and as groundskeeping vehicles on large campuses. Eventually, even Detroit got in on the action, rebadging trucks from Mazda, Mitsubishi - opens in new window or tab., and Isuzu - opens in new window or tab., such as the Ford Courier - opens in new window or tab., Plymouth Arrow Truck, and Chevy LUV.
King Cab Led the Way
Nissan was one of the most successful players in this market, thanks to sharply designed trucks and clever innovations that launched ahead of its rivals. One of the most prominent was the King Cab, which offered a slightly longer passenger compartment that didn’t warrant a second set of doors. But it was long enough to fit a second set of seats for additional passengers. That prompted Toyota to add an XtraCab option to its compact trucks.
They were small, but that doesn’t mean they were delicate. They proved to be reliable workhorses, even under heavy abuse. That’s mostly because they were affordable. By the 1980s, options like four-wheel-drive had begun to appear on Nissan and Toyota trucks. Soon, those trucks would go racing in stadium events—think the 1980s arcade game “Super Off Road - opens in new window or tab.”—and in grueling competitions like the Baja 500.
Used But Not Abused
The Datsun 720 King Cab for sale hails from this era. Equipped with all the bells and whistles—including 4WD and flashy period-correct decals—the King Cab is the quintessential compact pickup.
Like most compact pickups, this Datsun 720 King Cab appears to have been used as a truck, as noted by the dents in its rear and bed area. However, it also looks to have been well cared for. The listing says it retains 90 percent of its original paint and the original decals.
The seller says the King Cab was purchased new in Idaho and lived there until 2021. It features a newly machined head, and its clutch - opens in new window or tab. and flywheel - opens in new window or tab. were replaced. While the wheels aren’t original, their gold color matches the paint well. The roof has a large swatch of peeled paint. Luckily, any rust visible in the photos appears to be surface only and can be easily sanded down. That goes for the undercarriage as well. The interior looks to be in nice shape overall, other than the dash pad, splits in the driver's seat upholstery, and some scuffing.
This 1984 Datsun King Cab 4x4 is in remarkably good condition—considering that it’s 40 years old and was used for 150,000 miles. It’s listed with a Buy-It-Now price of $14,950. If you’re looking for an honest truck that you won’t feel guilty driving hard, this Datsun could be it.
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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.