Bruce Robinson’s 1969 Datsun

Los Angeles was a cool place to be in the 1970’s. That’s where Bruce Robinson went to architecture school and acquired his cherished 1969 Datsun. He babied it for 50+ years. Retired and downsizing, he looked to Worley’s classic car experts after considering the big names.

Situation

Bruce had invested more than $50,000 into a comprehensive restoration of his two-owner 1969 Datsun 2000 Roadster, using over 95% genuine Datsun parts. The car was exceptionally well-documented, beautifully restored, and featured the highly desirable 5-speed manual transmission — a rare offering in its class during the late 1960s.

He needed a competitive sales environment that would both maximize value and attract serious collectors who understood the rarity and craftsmanship of this Japanese classic.

Solution

Within hours of launching the auction, bidding surged to $17,000 thanks to competition inside Worley Auctioneers’ proprietary bidder network. Momentum continued to build, ultimately turning into a dramatic three-way showdown between East Coast, West Coast, and local bidders.

When the hammer fell, the Datsun sold for $38,748 — driven by true market competition and national exposure.

Outcome

Beyond the impressive final price, Bruce achieved something even more meaningful: confidence in the buyer. After the sale, he spent hours with the new owner reviewing documentation, sharing restoration details, and trading stories — ensuring the car’s next steward appreciated it as deeply as he had.

This nimble, lightweight roadster — known for its responsive power and exhilarating 5-speed driving experience — now continues its legacy with an enthusiast prepared to maintain it with the same dedication. For Bruce, that peace of mind was just as valuable as the final bid.