Nissan may be reviving its former nameplate, Datsun, in 2014, if a report by the Japanese news agency Nikkei is to be believed.

The report, which did not cite sources, said that Nissan wants to create a lower-cost sub-brand to better compete in countries such as Russia, India and Indonesia. The cars would cost roughly twice that of the Indian-built Tata Nano, the world's cheapest production car, or about $6,100 at today's exchange rates.

There are even plans, according to Nikkei, of a 0.8-liter engine destined for Russia. Warranties would be shorter than on regular Nissan cars, according to the report.

When reached today, Nissan had no comment on the rumors.

Datsun was Nissan's original name prior to the mid-1980s, as anyone older than 25 knows well. (the 240Z is the brand's most legendary offering.) During the name switch, many Nissan models carried both Nissan and Datsun badges on the back decklids.

I drove a few but never had occasion to own one, I wonder if they'll get back into the U.S.?