Ok, it goes like this.

1973 Datsun 1200 Sedan. United States import.

When I try to order new brake parts, the first question I get is "front pads, or shoes?".

So which is it? I'd hate to order the wrong thing.

TIA

The 1200 is disk front drum rear , you want front brake pads. Get Repco metal master if you can. If you drive hard like some of us the stock 1200 brakes are pretty weak the metal metal master pads will help.
The reason why the parts clerk asks pads or shoes is the computer they are looking at asks this , sadly there are very few real auto parts guys left anymore. The National chains don't pay to well so it is likey the person behind the counter knows a lot less about cars than you do.
Tom Grossmann

PS: you will find people here know eeeverything about 1200s and then some.

Further on that, all US 1200s have front disk brakes. And all disk brakes use pads. Drum brakes use shoes.

hi sling, the reason the parts guy has asked you is that he has a choice of what to supply.
he is working from a book, if you are using an aftermarket supplier his general knowledge on a large variety of cars would be good and if you are going genuine the parts guy should know your car better than you do !! how do I know ? I have done genuine Honda parts for 18 years and if this helps 74 Civic front pads are the same
cheers Ade