This is a 1980 Datsun 720 King Cab Baja Racer. Introduced in October 1979, the 720 was the fifth generation of the Datsun Truck series, originally introduced in 1955 with the 120 (although its lineage extends further with the Datsun Type 13 of 1934).
The 720 was available under numerous names and configurations, such as two- and four-door versions and short and long wheelbases. The models in the United States were powered by a 2.0L L20B inline-4 when originally introduced before switching to the 2.2L NAPS-Z Z22S inline-4 for better emissions. These diesel engines were sourced from subsidiary Nissan Diesel. In the US the 720 was available as a regular cab and King Cab model, with regular and long bed options and GL, DX and ST trim packages. The 720 was rebadged a Nissan in 1985 and was discontinued in 1986 with the introduction of the Nissan D21.
The 720 and its successor the D21 were also frequently used in off-road racing. Such trucks were campaigned by off-road specialists such as Sherman Balch, who Nissan used to increase the brand's exposure in the off-road circuit. One such truck, nicknamed "Sherman" after Balch, is owned by Dana Dague of Palapa Boy Racing. It has been extensively modified, with the L20B having dual side draft Weber carbs, a limited-slip differential, custom axles, Sway-a-Way torsion bars and Dever springs among others. Balch has won a number of Baja 1000 victories and other series and has since walked away from racing to run his construction businesses.
Now this casting was designed by Charlie Angulo and introduced in 2024 in the Terra Trek segment of the Car Culture line. This casting has seen two known releases, the other being a black "chase" version with different wheels.
