The Datsun mi-DO 1.6 (87 hp) Automatic, produced from 2014 onwards, represented an entry-level offering within the mi-DO hatchback range. Positioned as an affordable and practical city car, the mi-DO was primarily aimed at the Russian and CIS markets, representing Datsun’s re-entry into these regions. The vehicle was based on the Renault/Nissan B0 platform, shared with models like the Renault Logan and Sandero, and sought to provide a balance of cost-effectiveness and basic functionality. This particular 1.6-liter, automatic transmission variant was designed to appeal to buyers prioritizing ease of use over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Datsun |
| Model | mi-DO |
| Generation | mi-DO |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (87 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.4 l/100 km (22.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 166 km/h (103.15 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 87 Hp @ 5100 rpm |
| Torque | 140 Nm @ 3800 rpm (103.26 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1596 cm3 (97.39 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.84 l (8.28 US qt | 6.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1160 kg (2557.36 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1560 kg (3439.21 lbs.) |
| Max load | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 240 l (8.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 3950 mm (155.51 in.) |
| Width | 1700 mm (66.93 in.) |
| Height | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2476 mm (97.48 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 174 mm (6.85 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 185/60 R14; 185/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 ET35; 6J x 15 ET35 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Datsun mi-DO 1.6 Automatic utilized the Renault K4M 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, a well-established design, featured a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head. It employed a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel to each cylinder individually for improved efficiency and responsiveness. The engine’s valvetrain consisted of two valves per cylinder (SOHC), a configuration chosen for simplicity and cost-effectiveness. The 87 horsepower output was achieved at 5100 rpm, with peak torque of 140 Nm (103 lb-ft) arriving at 3800 rpm. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission, a relatively basic unit designed for smooth, if not particularly sporty, operation. This transmission was sourced from Jatco, a well-known automatic transmission manufacturer.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine with the four-speed automatic provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 13.6 seconds, and top speed was limited to 103 mph. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards fuel economy and drivability in urban environments. Compared to the five-speed manual version of the mi-DO 1.6, the automatic suffered a noticeable performance deficit, with slower acceleration and a less engaging driving experience. The automatic transmission prioritized smooth shifts over quick response, making it well-suited for city driving but less ideal for highway overtaking. The power delivery was linear, but the engine felt strained at higher RPMs.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The mi-DO 1.6 Automatic typically came with a base level of equipment. Standard features included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features included ABS brakes and driver and passenger airbags. Higher trim levels, such as the “Luxury” package, added features like air conditioning, alloy wheels, rear power windows, and a more comprehensive audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a simple and functional dashboard layout. Optional extras included a rear parking sensor and a more advanced audio system.
Chassis & Braking
The mi-DO utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup was chosen for its cost-effectiveness and ability to provide a reasonable level of ride comfort. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The steering was hydraulic power-assisted, offering light and easy steering feel. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering, though the car’s overall handling was geared towards comfort rather than sporty dynamics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Datsun mi-DO 1.6 Automatic was generally viewed as a practical and affordable option in the Russian market. Critics praised its low price point and reasonable fuel economy (around 30.5 US mpg combined). However, the automatic transmission was often criticized for its sluggish performance and lack of refinement compared to more modern automatic gearboxes. Compared to the manual transmission version, the automatic offered less driver engagement and slightly worse fuel economy. Competitors in this segment included the Lada Granta and the Renault Logan, both of which offered similar levels of practicality and affordability.
Legacy
The Datsun mi-DO, and specifically the 1.6-liter automatic variant, has established a reputation for reasonable reliability, particularly the engine itself. The K4M engine is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs. However, the four-speed automatic transmission is considered the weak link in the powertrain, with some reports of premature wear and failure. On the used car market, the mi-DO 1.6 Automatic remains an affordable option for buyers seeking a basic and reliable city car. Its simplicity and relatively low running costs make it an attractive choice for those on a budget. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential issues with the automatic transmission and ensure it has been properly maintained.
