Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) was first used starting with 1974 B-210 (North American B210) models. It recirculates a small portion of the exhaust back into the combustion chamber. Although this dilutes the the air/fuel mixture (reducing performance), it reduces burning temperatures resulting in drastic reductions of Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx). This is a key emission control technology. Even the new 2012 models use EGR, although now it can be effected by variable camshaft overlap and engine computer control. Datsuns use an early version of EGR which is heavy-handed regarding performance, but really does clean up the air.
For a detailed explanation of EGR, see the AutoZine Technical School article.
EGR parts in red:
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