Which car is called poor man's BMW?

The Poor Man’s BMW: The Legendary Datsun 510

If you’ve ever heard the term “poor man’s BMW,” you’ve probably stumbled into a conversation about one of the most underrated legends in automotive history—the Datsun 510. Introduced in the early 1970s, this unassuming sedan quickly earned a reputation far beyond its modest price tag. With a lightweight body—weighing in at just over a ton—and performance that rivaled many sports cars of its era, the 510 was an unexpected powerhouse.

Under the hood, the 510 packed a high-revving 1.6-liter inline-four engine, delivering smooth power and remarkable responsiveness. Its independent rear suspension—a rarity in affordable sedans at the time—gave it handling precision that felt more European than Japanese. That blend of agility, reliability, and affordability didn’t go unnoticed. Enthusiasts and journalists alike began calling it the “poor man’s BMW,” drawing direct comparisons to the revered 2002, BMW’s own driver-focused sedan.

But the nickname wasn’t just about performance. It was about ethos. Like BMW, the Datsun 510 prioritized driving joy over luxury or flash. It was a car that rewarded skill, thrived on back roads, and could out-handle more expensive contemporaries with ease. In an era when Japanese cars were often seen as economical but dull, the 510 shattered stereotypes.

Even today, the 510 holds a cult following. Restomods and vintage racers keep its legacy alive, a testament to its timeless formula: lightweight, balanced, and built for driving pleasure. It may have cost far less than a BMW, but in the hearts of many, the Datsun 510 earned every bit of respect—and then some.