Driven by Purpose: The Complete History of Japan's Everyman Car is an independent work of automotive history that traces the full story of Datsun from its DAT origins through its rise in postwar Japan, its export breakthrough, its everyday success in markets around the world, its motorsport credibility, its transformation into Nissan, and its later revival and second disappearance.
Written in a clear, narrative style, this book follows the marque not simply as a line of cars, but as a social and industrial force. It shows how Datsun helped motorize postwar Japan, opened export doors for Nissan, and earned loyalty through practicality, affordability, durability, and mechanical honesty. From the Bluebird and Sunny to the 510, Fairlady roadsters, Z cars, pickups, and wagons, this is the story of a brand that gave ordinary drivers access to dependable mobility and, at its best, genuine driving pleasure.
This book is an independent publication and is not authorized, sponsored, endorsed, or affiliated with Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Datsun, or any related company. All brand names, model names, and trademarks mentioned in this book are the property of their respective owners and are used solely for identification, historical reference, and commentary.
