Hello Everyone, This is Dominic Le. I just want to jump in and clear up the air a bit. We had made a ton of adjustment before the filming to ensure that the ride quality and performance of the truck would be great for the show. I had raised the car and adjusted the shocks to a softer setting to handle the bumpy LA roads. We tested the truck with 2 people in it and everything was great. but I believe I made the shocks a bit too soft which made the rear end dipped more than expected during boost which led to the tires rubbing and the driveshaft hitting an exhaust bracket. There will always be some type of adjustment made since it was a custom truck. That's the best part of a build, that it's always evolving. I also want to address the fact that I didn't drop any names because it was not my place to promote companies that I do not own. However, I have always been the type that will always give credit where credit is due. Yes. the front Hakotora Kit is an 09racing design. I also placed their decal right smack in the middle of Jay and I during the drive to give them the most camera time. Out of fairness, I didn't even mention my own company. It has been an honor and a dream come true to have something you built be shown to the world. When it comes down to it we just built what we like. I do it because I like the art of automotive and the friends you make during every build. if it was shown to no one or to millions, we would have built them the same way from the look to performance. To be honest the best part of the video was the rubbing and the driveshaft noise. It showed the rawness of the car and that things will happen even if you do everything to prevent it. Thank you to Jay Leno and the whole Jay Leno Garage staff for giving me and my team this great opportunity to showcase something different and fun. Thanks everyone for all the comments even if they are criticisms or praises. PS. All the rubbing and driveshaft problems are all sorted out. :)
+Dominic Le It's an awesome creation bud, no worries, I think most of the people here that aren't trolls understand how hard it is to get everything perfect. we're just happy to see the truck, ALTHO....I'd love to *really* see it tear it up a bit, if you know what I mean, maybe on a road course or something...so...looking forward to *that* video :D
This is (in my mind) one of the top truck builds for any period. Tastefully tuned and well-balanced performance blended with subtle styling that works well for both street and show. You can tell a lot of thought went into tying it all together. Kudos to you and your crew Dominic!
The car isn't "perfect" like so many restorations or customs. It has a appealing raw, noisy and unfinished quality, like a real rod or race car. Dominic is the kind of guy Jay should hire because he's smart, passionate and hungry. He and his buddy had a vision and pulled it off in their spare time after work. Gets my respect. (PS it's not about the tail pipe)
Tyre rubs and driveshaft noise considered, this is still one of the more street ready cars that Sema has to offer. They're pure show cars, finished the night before, half of them can't be driven more than 5 minutes and that's from the "professionals". Hats off to this guy for having a car that actually works in the show.
Jesus this car is gorgeous, its literally perfect, except for the driveshaft, but come on this guy built it him self. He didnt go to no high end shop to do it, he did it him self and thats what building a car is about. Its not about build something everyone will like, its about building something you're proud of! Great build, wish I saw more people like this.
Ive always loved these little Datsun/Nissan trucks from the 70s and 80s, even some earlier 90s models when they are boosted with motor swaps, whether it be a sr20, rb25 or 26, or even a huge LS v8 with 800+ HP, as long as they are clean and tastefully built, they always make me smile. :)
Oh, gravel roads. I've spend a lot of time in the bush and grew up in the country, and never drive in the middle of a gravel road. Those Aussies you see driving in the middle of your gravel roads are city slickers, probably from Melbourne or Sydney.
During my college days, i had a 1970, Datsun 1200 sedan. Manual, straight 4, carburator engine. Front and rear drum brakes. It was a 4 speed. I loved that car so much, i used to repair it at home. It was a very simple car to maintain. Taught me a lot. Seeing this clip reminds me a lot. Cheers 👍🏿
+Artful Dodger It's a neat car and requires more automotive awareness than simply justifying it with the Ricers. I'm sure Jay has done interviews with many vehicles that also clink, and clunk, for instance; how about the OLD Batmobile?
This is an example of a vehicle that has been modified in nearly every way on nearly every inch, yet it still holds tightly onto the classic appearance. They took an inch or 2 out of the top of the truck bed and gave it some superb lines, especially that curve right behind the cab.
I didn’t mind the noise because it’s a great custom truck that’s the beauty of a nice build. Ever notice that when u have a new car and something goes wrong with it and you don’t want it anymore. But something u build and are very proud of it when something wrong happens you can’t wait to fix and put it on the road again. That my friend is a labor of love!
I bet he did! Isn’t there two features of this guy’s work? Another Nissan? I think it’s fantastic myself. Stuff like this is why JLG is great! Really enjoyed this a lot more than the butchered 240z episode.
People keep commenting about the driveshaft and rubbing. WEREN'T YOU BUFFOONS LISTENING? "It's lowered now 8" but we usually keep it around 6" for driving" PLUS he forgot to anticipate the drive with Jay which is a huge guy and forgot to increase it. Stop trying to sound smarter than him. You're on the youtube comment section for christ sake.
+Chris, I'm a huge buffoon but I was listening- if the body is going to go there (8" down) then the drivetrain & suspension should work there too, especially if you're going to appear on Jay Leno's Garage. The tires aren't a huge deal, but that driveshaft clatter is dangerous and makes it sound like an obviously excellent builder made a mistake or missed something.
+Mooselover1011 It is a vehicle made to drive.... This isn't an Formula One car where every pound counts. Jay may weigh 240 pounds. It is not unreasonable to design the car to look great and be a tiny bit more practical. A mere 3/8- 1/2 of an inch more clearance could have made the difference in sounding like a first time builder and a professional. The car creator should have experimented with a passenger before showing it to Jay.
Wow! I'm comparing this in my mind's eye with my 1974 Ford(Mazda) Courier. It was a good truck, chosen over the Chevy LUV and VW pickup. Mr Le has done an outstanding job of pulling together custom bits and creating his look. Plopping that power plant in that chasis is brilliant. I read Mr Le's update and I'm not surprised he got everything sorted out. I wish him and his buddy who put all this together well!
One of my all time favorite cars on Jay Leno's Garage. It has so much character. Plus Dominic is one of the more interesting people to listen to, than many of the other owners that come through the show.
Gotta love Jay and his channel. Every time he post a new video you have absolutely no clue what kind of car he will be showing off. Keep it coming Jay love what you do and how you relate to the regular joe!!!
great engineering but sounds like that drive shaft is ready to explode when J pointed out. not my type of car but the beauty is the eye of the beholder
I'm from Australia and I remember these Datto 1200 utes being quite common place when I was a kid. They have become quite popular again, if you can still find a good rust free one around, and look quite hot all restored and done up. My dad bought a brand new 1600 ute, (510 or 610 in the American market) which was the next model up, in the late 70's for his work ute, (he was a builder). I can understand how it would never be popular in America as you guys love your big trucks and cheap petrol to run them, but over here sadly we don't have those choices. Anyways, I think this thing looks hot as, absolutely magic, love it.
joey gutierrez but how long did they last and the only way such power would available is with a HUGE turbo that takes a week to spool up. Anless they have an anti lag system. In which case my point stands. They will go pop.
joey gutierrez ah. Ok. A drift car is different. I was meaning a road car that will last more that 1 race meeting. Anti lag systems are incredibly tough on turbos and engines. They basically shoot flames through the turbo so it's always spinning at max rpm, even when your off the throttle.
those blocks are so prone to rod knock. if you don't sleeve the bores it's a c4 on borrowed time. why not go the rb25,26 route. much more appropriate for the front end.
The mirrors remind me of a 1967 MBG, they had mirrors in the same place, but were adjusted with a locking screw and it took two people to adjust them. And they weren't spring mounted. Nice build by a pair of car nuts, Really nice, Thanks Jay.
This little truck reminds me the 70s and 80s in my country, Costa Rica. All the motor heads like me back then had little pick ups: Toyotas 1000s, Datsuns 1200s and Subarus Brats. We use to modify those things with bigger carbs, Mallory or Accel ignition systems, lighter flywheels, etc. The cops were not happy with us!
You know, we all feel it's so unlikely that anyone from Jay's camp reads let alone acknowledges comments here, and while that very well might be and is likely the case... his channel is point blank about the underlying passion that drives us to watch his videos. Motors. Driving. Building. Experimenting. Learning about cars and their history, some of which none of us never knew even existed. I, for one couldn't express more like for more videos like this. A seemingly humble guy, building a car in his spare time, pouring passion and heart into it, and all the lot of you want to respond with is that it isn't production-ready. Driveshaft issues? hah! I ask... when is the last time you built a car here in the USA from a foreign chassis, even close to as modified as this one and it ran perfect first time out of the gate?
Low budget custom cars like this, are good examples of creativity. If for some looks nice or not, this is purely subjective. Congratulations to Jay showing except of the creations of big companies and everyday people's jobs.
i think its great what he did, its different from the usual vintage chevy and ford trucks. shame on the guys who nit pick at the little defects when this truck has so much custom work into it. remember he's not chip foose this guy isn't a car builder he has a day job and this is his hobby.
+PearlyJarrett You obviously don't understand the street car culture of Japanese style vehicles. The rubbing of the tires are normal for lowered cars. The driveshaft issue can be resolved if the vehicle is raised 2 inches and done a little shaving work, however, it would defeat the whole "mean and aggressive" look.
+PearlyJarrett It's a classic SEMA car. Most cars made specifically for sema are "finished" typically less than a few days down to a few hours from the actual show. A well running and driving car is alone a big achievement, so things like suspension, wheel balancing, drive shaft in this vid are often overlooked. And a lot of the time they're crushed if they're sponsored by manufacturers because they're usually pre-productions. Hell, alot of the parts and engines being shown off are also prototypes that get binned.
+PearlyJarrett Agreed. And really, i don't think it would hurt the look at all to raise it 1/2'' or whatever. It would probably fix the drive shaft thing too.
I actually learned how to drive in a truck like this one. The four cylinder engine was light but it was so much fun. We used to take it to parking lots and do donuts all day long.
+William Gson ok you don't have to be a jerk about it, i never seen this before, thought it was a modified 70s gtr, never new datsun (aka nissan) made this around the same time or possibly earlier as a completely standalone car..
+westxtsew There's a couple companies who make the Hakotora front end for the Datsun 1200, Vintage Spirit Garage & 09Racing. I believe 09 Racing started the kit first came out as a 1200 ute like this white one but much more traditional Japanese style. There working on using the Datsun 1200 hatchback as a next project it might look weird seeing the skyline front on a hatchback. Also saw some people making there own Hakotora kits in Thailand for the Datsun 620 pick ups.
My son &I I attended Dertoit Autorama the year this car won..great design, build and back story.. I do appreciate cars that have won since then.. some were "built to drive".. these rate a litter different in my book.. however Craftsmanship speaks for itself..
These trucks were imported in the late 60's. I wanted my Dad to get one for my HS graduation but he was dead set against it and got me a Chevy instead in 1971. The dealer in Augusta ME had many on his lot. Later a dealer in Cincinnati OH carried them. Most are gone now due to rust. They were a hit among the small Oriental gardeners who love their small size and utility. I still like them.
Growing up a Stern fan, I always had a dislike towards Jay Leno. But watching this Car show of his, I've really come to appreciate the guy.:S This guy's alright!
Man one of my favorite trucks ever! I couldn't find one so I got a 72 Datsun 620, very similar but not quite. Dnicle has done an amazing Job on this truck and I had a huge smile on my face the entire time. I love when Jay does old classic Japanese cars/trucks! Its been cool to follow Dominic's build of this from the start on Instagram to now see it on JLG
50 pounds of sound deadening would go a long way in me personally loving this build. I understand comfort was not the priority though. Killer car and the stance is on point.
+LowMedia lol this reminds me. The other night I was going home,opened my door wide (was next to a curb) ,me and my friend sat down and the next thing ya know,I couldn't close my door XD #Lowlife
+LowMedia so dumb, if your someone that owns a car you cant take people in because it will bottom out, rub or make noise.. sort your life out your slowly destroying your car to show your "bout dat life" the only people that think its "fire" are other people with cars just as low and just as terrible to drive and look at as your own.... bruh
I felt that too. In a way it felt as though Jay really didn't give much of a crap, kept forgetting stuff or was worried about something else (understood, he is a busy man). It just felt like: It's just "content" for his channel. Dunno, felt kinda shitty at the end.
Props Dominic and his team on executing a terrific stateside version of the Hakotora! Not to take away anything from what they did because I know the amount of hardwork and hours that goes into a build like this is irreplaceable, but major credit should be due/giving to 09RACING in Japan for the complete Hako exterior and interior bolt on kit. And to David Gonzales (ddgonzal) who owned this truck states side for many years when it was just a blue GB122 Sanitora on 14" SSR MKII's (already with a shaved bed hooks and fiberglass deck lid).
+Mario A Walker Spot on! Nice job and all, but I don't even see a 09Racing sticker?! next to the 20 "sponsors". Stay true ;) 09racingshop.cart.fc2.com/ca2/27/
+Mario A Walker Totally agree! I was waiting for him to give credit to 09 Racing for the exterior and interior kit, but he didn't mention them once! I was quite disappointed in the owner. Good job for also bringing up ddgonzal and the work he did too.
i would love to see more and more cars like this jay,that will be so nice. Tank you jay for all your hard work to show us this amazing cars on your channel.
Although I have read many comments about the tires rubbing and the driveline noise. Can't help but to say. "If you have been invited to be on Jay Leno with your car you know he's going to be driving it. And its going to be filmed for everybody that's in the car world to see. Make sure that nothing is hitting or rubbing. Even if you have to let him know that you have to make some adjustments for two people. Or pull a all nighter or two. Do it! This is about the best place to show your car off. Don't mess it up.
Big Jay, Thank you for bringing us these unique beautiful machines , I grow up watching you as a kid on late night TV. And it's very cool to see you interview these artist of machinery, really nice to learn about all the different styles , models and custom variations of automotive craftsmanship.. hope you can continue to help us car guys enjoy a great car show. Good job "Big Jay"
Mid 300 HP, truck weighs 1800 pounds? It'll sit you back in the seat. Thats about the equivelant of riding in a 4000 pound Challenger with 500 HP. Power to weight baby....
Riles07 I will take your word for it, but just because it's culture, doesn't mean it looks good. At best it would look cultury correct. For me it just looks awful. But for each their own taste of course.
+NZSkutaBoi Oh I got it, I found this explanation: It's a GT-Kai emblem. If you have a modified car in Japan, your registration will be stamped with that 'Kai' character. So it's like saying 'GT-Modified'. I'm sure this is obvious to many but news to me.
I have to say this is one of my favorite cars feature in Jay Leno Garage, Im not really into pickups but I have to say is absolutely beautiful, especially with the gtr front end.
I like them both. If the roadkill truck got finished up it'd be even sweeter but that's not what they're about. Two different approaches that just need to be appreciated for what they are, this is a show truck that's a fool around truck. Both awesome.
I have one of these im about to restore and modify. Mines a 1985 model with A1500 in her for now. Love the front end conversion on this one. And that dash is unreal. Great job gets me exited about mine.
Hello Everyone, This is Dominic Le. I just want to jump in and clear up the air a bit. We had made a ton of adjustment before the filming to ensure that the ride quality and performance of the truck would be great for the show. I had raised the car and adjusted the shocks to a softer setting to handle the bumpy LA roads. We tested the truck with 2 people in it and everything was great. but I believe I made the shocks a bit too soft which made the rear end dipped more than expected during boost which led to the tires rubbing and the driveshaft hitting an exhaust bracket. There will always be some type of adjustment made since it was a custom truck. That's the best part of a build, that it's always evolving. I also want to address the fact that I didn't drop any names because it was not my place to promote companies that I do not own. However, I have always been the type that will always give credit where credit is due. Yes. the front Hakotora Kit is an 09racing design. I also placed their decal right smack in the middle of Jay and I during the drive to give them the most camera time. Out of fairness, I didn't even mention my own company. It has been an honor and a dream come true to have something you built be shown to the world. When it comes down to it we just built what we like. I do it because I like the art of automotive and the friends you make during every build. if it was shown to no one or to millions, we would have built them the same way from the look to performance. To be honest the best part of the video was the rubbing and the driveshaft noise. It showed the rawness of the car and that things will happen even if you do everything to prevent it. Thank you to Jay Leno and the whole Jay Leno Garage staff for giving me and my team this great opportunity to showcase something different and fun. Thanks everyone for all the comments even if they are criticisms or praises. PS. All the rubbing and driveshaft problems are all sorted out. :)
GREAT Job man i love all things nissan and toyota classics. I OWN A DATSUN 280Z........WHAT KIND OF WHEEL COMBO DO U HAVE.....
+Dominic Le It's an awesome creation bud, no worries, I think most of the people here that aren't trolls understand how hard it is to get everything perfect. we're just happy to see the truck, ALTHO....I'd love to *really* see it tear it up a bit, if you know what I mean, maybe on a road course or something...so...looking forward to *that* video :D
Your next project should be a REPU Mazda Rotary ute with a 20B turbo engine :-)
Greatly said Dominic, people here criticizing have no idea what it is to own or drive a car that has been customized.
Dominic Le nice build.
This is (in my mind) one of the top truck builds for any period. Tastefully tuned and well-balanced performance blended with subtle styling that works well for both street and show. You can tell a lot of thought went into tying it all together.
Kudos to you and your crew Dominic!
The car isn't "perfect" like so many restorations or customs. It has a appealing raw, noisy and unfinished quality, like a real rod or race car. Dominic is the kind of guy Jay should hire because he's smart, passionate and hungry. He and his buddy had a vision and pulled it off in their spare time after work. Gets my respect. (PS it's not about the tail pipe)
Tyre rubs and driveshaft noise considered, this is still one of the more street ready cars that Sema has to offer. They're pure show cars, finished the night before, half of them can't be driven more than 5 minutes and that's from the "professionals". Hats off to this guy for having a car that actually works in the show.
It's so great to showcase these home builders. I love hearing their stories and the retro Japanese cars are fantastic fun.
when you get a good word and lots of compliments from Jay Leno, it's a masterpiece.
Jesus this car is gorgeous, its literally perfect, except for the driveshaft, but come on this guy built it him self. He didnt go to no high end shop to do it, he did it him self and thats what building a car is about. Its not about build something everyone will like, its about building something you're proud of! Great build, wish I saw more people like this.
Ive always loved these little Datsun/Nissan trucks from the 70s and 80s, even some earlier 90s models when they are boosted with motor swaps, whether it be a sr20, rb25 or 26, or even a huge LS v8 with 800+ HP, as long as they are clean and tastefully built, they always make me smile. :)
Apparently other people love them to too according to the most recent prices 😳
The LS swap is the gayest thing ever.
Lmao for a second there I was like "why isn't Jay driving it" but then I remembered it's a right had drive so he actually was driving.
+carlozmrc I did the same thing :)
+Patrick Archibald gravel roads
Oh, gravel roads. I've spend a lot of time in the bush and grew up in the country, and never drive in the middle of a gravel road. Those Aussies you see driving in the middle of your gravel roads are city slickers, probably from Melbourne or Sydney.
+carlozmrc
I was thinking exactly the same right until the end of the video. Doh.
Toyota
I like seeing Datsun restored and used. This has to be one of my favorite episodes.
Sickest looking truck I've ever seen. Love this.
ute*
th-cam.com/video/QpRfonvNNPY/w-d-xo.html 🔥🔥
@@barlos1497anything boxy is a truck to Americans
During my college days, i had a 1970, Datsun 1200 sedan. Manual, straight 4, carburator engine. Front and rear drum brakes. It was a 4 speed. I loved that car so much, i used to repair it at home. It was a very simple car to maintain. Taught me a lot. Seeing this clip reminds me a lot. Cheers 👍🏿
Wow best car in a while!
it looks FUCKING brilliant
+Cosmic yea he hit dry spot couple past cars
Yup yup it reminded me of savaan with his car
+Cosmic Seemed like Jay thought best interview in a while too
+Artful Dodger It's a neat car and requires more automotive awareness than simply justifying it with the Ricers. I'm sure Jay has done interviews with many vehicles that also clink, and clunk, for instance; how about the OLD Batmobile?
How neat is that? An awesome build you did yourself .. Get shown at SEMA,... and To have Jay Lenos blessing?? nice!!
This is an example of a vehicle that has been modified in nearly every way on nearly every inch, yet it still holds tightly onto the classic appearance. They took an inch or 2 out of the top of the truck bed and gave it some superb lines, especially that curve right behind the cab.
I love it when someone makes a small car both look and perform like a beast. The Skyline parts blended in really set this thing off, great build!
Jay taking off in space shuttle: ah, pulls nicely!
Jay talking to NASA engineer: Single guy?
I didn’t mind the noise because it’s a great custom truck that’s the beauty of a nice build. Ever notice that when u have a new car and something goes wrong with it and you don’t want it anymore. But something u build and are very proud of it when something wrong happens you can’t wait to fix and put it on the road again. That my friend is a labor of love!
Probably one of the few cars Jay did not bother getting on the highway with. lol
I bet he did! Isn’t there two features of this guy’s work? Another Nissan?
I think it’s fantastic myself.
Stuff like this is why JLG is great!
Really enjoyed this a lot more than the butchered 240z episode.
70's Japanese and the 3 boxed shaped cars are things of beauty. Wicked build, well done!
People keep commenting about the driveshaft and rubbing. WEREN'T YOU BUFFOONS LISTENING? "It's lowered now 8" but we usually keep it around 6" for driving" PLUS he forgot to anticipate the drive with Jay which is a huge guy and forgot to increase it. Stop trying to sound smarter than him. You're on the youtube comment section for christ sake.
+Chris, I'm a huge buffoon but I was listening- if the body is going to go there (8" down) then the drivetrain & suspension should work there too, especially if you're going to appear on Jay Leno's Garage. The tires aren't a huge deal, but that driveshaft clatter is dangerous and makes it sound like an obviously excellent builder made a mistake or missed something.
+Chris Sorreda I am smarter than him. None of my driveshafts rub.
+J Maxey You also don't have a 700lb Orca whale in the seat next to you...
+Mooselover1011 It is a vehicle made to drive.... This isn't an Formula One car where every pound counts.
Jay may weigh 240 pounds. It is not unreasonable to design the car to look great and be a tiny bit more practical.
A mere 3/8- 1/2 of an inch more clearance could have made the difference in sounding like a first time builder and a professional. The car creator should have experimented with a passenger before showing it to Jay.
jezuzfreek777 Obviously... But maybe he had another guy with him that wasn't an Orca whale.
Wow! I'm comparing this in my mind's eye with my 1974 Ford(Mazda) Courier. It was a good truck, chosen over the Chevy LUV and VW pickup. Mr Le has done an outstanding job of pulling together custom bits and creating his look. Plopping that power plant in that chasis is brilliant. I read Mr Le's update and I'm not surprised he got everything sorted out. I wish him and his buddy who put all this together well!
I'm loving the look of this SO CLEAN!!
One of my all time favorite cars on Jay Leno's Garage. It has so much character. Plus Dominic is one of the more interesting people to listen to, than many of the other owners that come through the show.
I like the Jay appreciates these builds too most older guys would just call it junk not knowing anything about it
Um, yeah it still looks like junk
I don't think Jay would ever bad mouth anyone that built anything like this, he honestly appreciates these builds!!!
@@stevenbrown5210 You should prob get some peanut butter to go with all that JELLY! lolol
Gotta love Jay and his channel. Every time he post a new video you have absolutely no clue what kind of car he will be showing off. Keep it coming Jay love what you do and how you relate to the regular joe!!!
great engineering but sounds like that drive shaft is ready to explode when J pointed out. not my type of car but the beauty is the eye of the beholder
Owner didnt expect the weight of two people while driving so thats why it hits
+kain hall he said the trans came from the s14 he got the engine from
+kain hall The tranny came with the sr20, how can it only hold 100hp ?
I'm from Australia and I remember these Datto 1200 utes being quite common place when I was a kid. They have become quite popular again, if you can still find a good rust free one around, and look quite hot all restored and done up. My dad bought a brand new 1600 ute, (510 or 610 in the American market) which was the next model up, in the late 70's for his work ute, (he was a builder). I can understand how it would never be popular in America as you guys love your big trucks and cheap petrol to run them, but over here sadly we don't have those choices. Anyways, I think this thing looks hot as, absolutely magic, love it.
That's a very serious engine. They are capable of 600+hp
more I've seen a 1000hp sr
joey gutierrez but how long did they last and the only way such power would available is with a HUGE turbo that takes a week to spool up. Anless they have an anti lag system. In which case my point stands. They will go pop.
Gary Lowe and it did have anti lag and it was a drift car
joey gutierrez ah. Ok. A drift car is different. I was meaning a road car that will last more that 1 race meeting. Anti lag systems are incredibly tough on turbos and engines. They basically shoot flames through the turbo so it's always spinning at max rpm, even when your off the throttle.
those blocks are so prone to rod knock. if you don't sleeve the bores it's a c4 on borrowed time. why not go the rb25,26 route. much more appropriate for the front end.
My younger brother purchased a brand new Datsun 1200 Sedan in 1974 when he was 18 years old. I recall being really impressed with the car at the time.
Gorgeous datsun looks amazing perfect mix of old and new little modern gems
The mirrors remind me of a 1967 MBG, they had mirrors in the same place, but were adjusted with a locking screw and it took two people to adjust them. And they weren't spring mounted. Nice build by a pair of car nuts, Really nice, Thanks Jay.
I've been waiting for this. Such a unique build, absolutely love it
yes! i saw this thing at sema and it instantly became one of my favorites. cool to see it get the recognition it deserves
This little truck reminds me the 70s and 80s in my country, Costa Rica. All the motor heads like me back then had little pick ups: Toyotas 1000s, Datsuns 1200s and Subarus Brats. We use to modify those things with bigger carbs, Mallory or Accel ignition systems, lighter flywheels, etc. The cops were not happy with us!
You know, we all feel it's so unlikely that anyone from Jay's camp reads let alone acknowledges comments here, and while that very well might be and is likely the case... his channel is point blank about the underlying passion that drives us to watch his videos. Motors. Driving. Building. Experimenting. Learning about cars and their history, some of which none of us never knew even existed. I, for one couldn't express more like for more videos like this. A seemingly humble guy, building a car in his spare time, pouring passion and heart into it, and all the lot of you want to respond with is that it isn't production-ready. Driveshaft issues? hah! I ask... when is the last time you built a car here in the USA from a foreign chassis, even close to as modified as this one and it ran perfect first time out of the gate?
Great job on your build Dominic Le. I love it!
Low budget custom cars like this, are good examples of creativity. If for some looks nice or not, this is purely subjective. Congratulations to Jay showing except of the creations of big companies and everyday people's jobs.
i think its great what he did, its different from the usual vintage chevy and ford trucks. shame on the guys who nit pick at the little defects when this truck has so much custom work into it. remember he's not chip foose this guy isn't a car builder he has a day job and this is his hobby.
Remembering my '72 Datsun with the 8-track tape player! Thanks for bringin' back the truckin' days!
Im in love with that car, such a beauty
That is the coolest pick up truck I think I’ve ever seen at least one of them!
that's a sick looking truck.
What a talented guy. What attention to detail. The car looked flawless!
Drive shaft scrapes on the car and the rubber wears on the fenders, it looks cool but I'd say it's still a work in progress.
+PearlyJarrett Jay really doesnt like cars like that,he mentions it often..
but I guess it was a rush job for sema
NoShit...too noisy, tires too big. I've got a '85Toyota PU that looks like this one 'cept it's all stock with a 4cyl stick and it's quiet😀
+PearlyJarrett You obviously don't understand the street car culture of Japanese style vehicles. The rubbing of the tires are normal for lowered cars. The driveshaft issue can be resolved if the vehicle is raised 2 inches and done a little shaving work, however, it would defeat the whole "mean and aggressive" look.
+PearlyJarrett It's a classic SEMA car. Most cars made specifically for sema are "finished" typically less than a few days down to a few hours from the actual show. A well running and driving car is alone a big achievement, so things like suspension, wheel balancing, drive shaft in this vid are often overlooked. And a lot of the time they're crushed if they're sponsored by manufacturers because they're usually pre-productions. Hell, alot of the parts and engines being shown off are also prototypes that get binned.
+PearlyJarrett Agreed. And really, i don't think it would hurt the look at all to raise it 1/2'' or whatever. It would probably fix the drive shaft thing too.
I actually learned how to drive in a truck like this one. The four cylinder engine was light but it was so much fun. We used to take it to parking lots and do donuts all day long.
This and the rx3 are my favorite videos on your channel 👌👌👍
love this. the fact that he got his car into sema and then jay picked it up to feature. freaking awesome.
nice job Dominic !
Jay that's where it all started a couple friends having a vision of what car to look like or truck they did a great job I'm impressed
looks just like a ute version of the 70's nissan skyline gtr :O!
+Sir David Robinson You don't say?!
+William Gson ok you don't have to be a jerk about it, i never seen this before, thought it was a modified 70s gtr, never new datsun (aka nissan) made this around the same time or possibly earlier as a completely standalone car..
This is not factory this is a kit for the front called Hakotora.
+ArchetypeDatsun Thank You! I now see the perfect pair of vehicles I want.
+westxtsew There's a couple companies who make the Hakotora front end for the Datsun 1200, Vintage Spirit Garage & 09Racing. I believe 09 Racing started the kit first came out as a 1200 ute like this white one but much more traditional Japanese style. There working on using the Datsun 1200 hatchback as a next project it might look weird seeing the skyline front on a hatchback. Also saw some people making there own Hakotora kits in Thailand for the Datsun 620 pick ups.
I love the episodes where you bring in talented people that build their own cars like this car and the Honda s600.
Love the skycamino
*Hakotora
yea correct me with the name used for these builds even though I want to call it what I want.
+gooeyM00NAJUANA it's just the name of the kit.
There are heaps of this type of ute here in Australia. This one is the best one ive seen so far.
Hakotora or as mike Garrett said "Japanese el Camino"
My son &I I attended Dertoit Autorama the year this car won..great design, build and back story.. I do appreciate cars that have won since then.. some were "built to drive".. these rate a litter different in my book.. however Craftsmanship speaks for itself..
needs abit of work, but this car is beautiful.
These trucks were imported in the late 60's. I wanted my Dad to get one for my HS graduation but he was dead set against it and got me a Chevy instead in 1971. The dealer in Augusta ME had many on his lot. Later a dealer in Cincinnati OH carried them. Most are gone now due to rust. They were a hit among the small Oriental gardeners who love their small size and utility. I still like them.
Growing up a Stern fan, I always had a dislike towards Jay Leno. But watching this Car show of his, I've really come to appreciate the guy.:S This guy's alright!
+Jayne Veidt Check the older vids, especially the steam and electric ones.
+PuppetMaster hmm seems legit.
+Jayne Veidt Guess you dont remember what he did to conan.
Still a shithead
Great young talent and accomplishment to be shown at SEMA. The side profile of the truck reminds me of the Subaru Brat of the late 70's.
Did somebody heard this car from GTA Online DLC Los Santos Turners, anyone?
Man one of my favorite trucks ever! I couldn't find one so I got a 72 Datsun 620, very similar but not quite. Dnicle has done an amazing Job on this truck and I had a huge smile on my face the entire time. I love when Jay does old classic Japanese cars/trucks! Its been cool to follow Dominic's build of this from the start on Instagram to now see it on JLG
seems like it needs a bit more setup to get rid of the tire rub and the driveshaft sound. But overall it's a really cool truck.
The clunking from the drive shaft would drive me nuts!
50 pounds of sound deadening would go a long way in me personally loving this build. I understand comfort was not the priority though. Killer car and the stance is on point.
shame about the driveshaft sound
The owner said he wasn't expecting the weight of two people and it actually lowered the care a couple inches.
+LowMedia yeah there it is
+LowMedia lol this reminds me. The other night I was going home,opened my door wide (was next to a curb) ,me and my friend sat down and the next thing ya know,I couldn't close my door XD #Lowlife
+stiliqn007 be happy u can open ur door next to a curb the tag hits everything
+LowMedia so dumb, if your someone that owns a car you cant take people in because it will bottom out, rub or make noise.. sort your life out
your slowly destroying your car to show your "bout dat life" the only people that think its "fire" are other people with cars just as low and just as terrible to drive and look at as your own.... bruh
I love these kind of kids who do such good work .
Ending awkward...
hey mr Angry Birds!!!
+MrAngryBirdsHDz did you want them to kiss or something
+supermarine 99 The asian guy was about to say something but Jay stopped him because he was in a hurry and his phone was ringing. lol.
I felt that too. In a way it felt as though Jay really didn't give much of a crap, kept forgetting stuff or was worried about something else (understood, he is a busy man). It just felt like: It's just "content" for his channel. Dunno, felt kinda shitty at the end.
+DJ BIS honestly, I thought it was more of a "let's not redo this shot and get it over with".
Props Dominic and his team on executing a terrific stateside version of the Hakotora! Not to take away anything from what they did because I know the amount of hardwork and hours that goes into a build like this is irreplaceable, but major credit should be due/giving to 09RACING in Japan for the complete Hako exterior and interior bolt on kit.
And to David Gonzales (ddgonzal) who owned this truck states side for many years when it was just a blue GB122 Sanitora on 14" SSR MKII's (already with a shaved bed hooks and fiberglass deck lid).
+Mario A Walker Spot on! Nice job and all, but I don't even see a 09Racing sticker?! next to the 20 "sponsors".
Stay true ;)
09racingshop.cart.fc2.com/ca2/27/
+Mario A Walker Totally agree!
I was waiting for him to give credit to 09 Racing for the exterior and interior kit, but he didn't mention them once! I was quite disappointed in the owner.
Good job for also bringing up ddgonzal and the work he did too.
Jay.....hook him up with some help with the drive shaft & tires.....c'mon man, you've got the ultimate set of tools....you can fix it.
Yes, he has, but I don't really think it's Jay's responsibility to do the shake-down and development work on every car that enters his garage.
I had one of these 'utes' with a 3.8 Buick V6....and a 5 speed..launching from 3rd gear...awesome power to weight.Great fun.
Hakotora . datsun 1200 ute gb120 sunnytruck. 09racing nake the hakosuka skyline front end kit.
Never seen a carbon bed thats sick,creative and light weight. Very nice
Non practical
Hakosukamino
👍
Hakosukaute
Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
hakutora*
+NZSkutaBoi hakotora
Absolutely stunning, i could stare at this all day long. Great job!!
It looks like a 1972 skyline with a truck bed
The best thing about building your own car and working on it day after day is that when there's something wrong you know what it is 👌🏻
Nice
i would love to see more and more cars like this jay,that will be so nice. Tank you jay for all your hard work to show us this amazing cars on your channel.
Datsun 😻
th-cam.com/video/QpRfonvNNPY/w-d-xo.html 🔥🔥
Although I have read many comments about the tires rubbing and the driveline noise. Can't help but to say. "If you have been invited to be on Jay Leno with your car you know he's going to be driving it. And its going to be filmed for everybody that's in the car world to see. Make sure that nothing is hitting or rubbing. Even if you have to let him know that you have to make some adjustments for two people. Or pull a all nighter or two. Do it! This is about the best place to show your car off. Don't mess it up.
9:17 NO FUCKS GIVEN!
What
jay leno has pretty much every car i want from the late 60s all the way up to 2000
Those exhaust tips need some work.
Agreed.
Great video Jay, had me smiling the whole time. The builder seemed like a really nice guy, good sense of humor too.
sick car but not liking the stretch tires and the ride height :(
+Karanbir Singh Not much stretch? that's like a 225 on a 9.5" wheel
EDIT: 15x9.5" front and 15x11" rear
Karanbir Singh its 205 on 11-inch wide wheel at the rear dude. check the specs on speedhunters. now tell me hows that meaty
Oh, OK,, I honestly like the look in this case though, it's more of a showcar than a gocar, and that's alright.
Karanbir Singh i understand its a show car but an actual meaty setup would be so sick on the street!
Frankie G Lol yeah
Big Jay, Thank you for bringing us these unique beautiful machines , I grow up watching you as a kid on late night TV. And it's very cool to see you interview these artist of machinery, really nice to learn about all the different styles , models and custom variations of automotive craftsmanship.. hope you can continue to help us car guys enjoy a great car show. Good job "Big Jay"
This car reminds me of my ex wife, it looks good but it doesn't perform very well.
It’s engine is more than capable of 700 hp
Mid 300 HP, truck weighs 1800 pounds? It'll sit you back in the seat. Thats about the equivelant of riding in a 4000 pound Challenger with 500 HP. Power to weight baby....
th-cam.com/video/QpRfonvNNPY/w-d-xo.html 🔥🔥
These are so nice with the skyline front and flares, perfect build
Cool car! But sorry, that tailpipe looks really out of place. It simply looks horrid.
I totally agree I was like wow what a nice build, and wham that tale pipe yelled rice rocket to me lol
Riles07 I will take your word for it, but just because it's culture, doesn't mean it looks good. At best it would look cultury correct. For me it just looks awful. But for each their own taste of course.
+Patrick Carta Eh, I like it.
+Patrick Carta It's a Japanese culture thing and that's actually pretty mild for an exhaust with that sort of flavor haha.
called shotgun exhaust or straight pipes.
Love this truck!! nobody understands mini trucks and the lifestyle. Best video ive seen in a long time.
What's that badge on the grill? GT something. It would have been nice if Jay wouldn't have INTERRUPTED at the point the guy was about to explain it.
I think he said GT Kai
+NZSkutaBoi Oh I got it, I found this explanation: It's a GT-Kai emblem. If you have a modified car in Japan, your registration will be stamped with that 'Kai' character. So it's like saying 'GT-Modified'. I'm sure this is obvious to many but news to me.
Man, they were having a good time! Very nice pace to this episode.
the owners Instagram is DNICLE
I have to say this is one of my favorite cars feature in Jay Leno Garage, Im not really into pickups but I have to say is absolutely beautiful, especially with the gtr front end.
Roadkills truck is better
No.
No roadkill is fucking gay.
Woah woah , don't use the Lords name in vain ..
It's insane how anyone would think a cobbled together pile of crap is better than something someone actually put time, effort and skill into.
I like them both. If the roadkill truck got finished up it'd be even sweeter but that's not what they're about. Two different approaches that just need to be appreciated for what they are, this is a show truck that's a fool around truck. Both awesome.
The truck is in show height. Many seemed to have missed that being mentioned
Awesome job on the truck. It's fantastic
This would of been cooler if he put a 3 rotor Wankel in it.
nissan with a mazda engine.... what?
Brands don't matter. Seen many fords with 350s. Japanese cars with ls7s. Whats wrong with a wankel powered Nissan,
@boostedsil40 I want to do a turbo 2jz Chevelle
I have one of these im about to restore and modify. Mines a 1985 model with A1500 in her for now. Love the front end conversion on this one. And that dash is unreal. Great job gets me exited about mine.
The exhaust tips are plain horrible.
I love this guy, such an artist and so respectable to Mr. Jay.