“The Nissan 1400 bakkie forms the cornerstone on which Nissan’s Commercial reputation was built in South Africa,” says Chris Schell general manager light commercial vehicles at Nissan South Africa.

“The Nissan 1400 is truly an icon in South Africa’s motoring history and will be remembered for years to come as a true Champion of Africa.”

The Nissan 1400 made its debut in South Africa in 1971. The original Datsun 1200 evolved into the Datsun 1400 in 1980 and became known as the Nissan 1400 in 1990. It has earned a well-deserved reputation as the ultimate small workhorse, thanks to its excellent reliability, low maintenance requirements, and modest sticker price.

In both the Standard and Champ guises it has stood strong as one of the most affordable commercial vehicles on the South African market for the last decade. During this period if you wanted to buy any other rear-wheel-drive bakkie you’d have to spend at least an additional R40 000.

“It’s a vehicle that has stood the test of time and one that has been with us through all the memorable historic events in South Africa,” says Schell.

Before the days of the internet, the cellular phone and even the colour TV the Nissan 1400 was a trusted partner of South Africans.

“While fads like bell bottoms, Rubic’s cubes, Star Wars, Nintendo, DOS computers and stone wash jeans came and went, the Nissan 1400 bakkie remained ever present and proved to be a reliable friend to so many South Africans in everyday life and everyday use.

“Nissan always knew that the 1400 bakkie enjoyed a solid reputation in the market place but looking back, the unprecedented production run and loyal cult following that developed is a truly momentous story,” says Schell.

Small business owners and fleet operators continue to swear by the evergreen 1400 bakkie and are saddened by the news of its farewell.

“The Nissan 1400 bakkie has been a reliable partner to so many people in South Africa.

“Many of its drivers talk about the 1400 bakkie as if it is a friend that you can rely on. We want to hear those stories.”

Upload your stories, movies or photos at www.thelast1400.co.za . Alternatively call 0800NISSAN, fax 0866869602 or email infodesk@nissan.co.za.

– (Correspondent)