For an A12 or A13 engine (stock or built), the stock rear axle assembly is the best: lowest weight, so you go faster. They were used in TSA 1300cc class racing with LSD diff.

See wiki - Rear Axle Swaps

Some 1200s absolutely need the Ford 9" rear. Here's one:


Godzilla-powered Datsun 1200

depends how much power is doing to be going through it. Ideally you want the smallest diff that wont break. Therefore a 9" isnt overkill if you have a squillion horsepower, but a ute diff might be overkill if you have a stock a12.

what do you have?

edit: yeah pretty much what Pigdog said

ute sedan coupe or wagon?
what engine?
many different 1200s on here have many different diffs
for A series the ute diff should be fine

Hi Guys,
I wanted to know what live axles most of you are using with your 1200 projects.

Im not sure what to use, and if the stock one is worth rebuilding. I think a ford 9" is an over kill.

Im asking as ill be converting what ever diff i use to disc brakes, most likely skyline R32/33 twin pistons and would make a few of the caliper adaptor plates if there was interest.