The Figaro – Nissan’s Feel Good Car Everyone Wanted. Thirty years ago, Nissan developed a small car that has become a much sought classic. They were only made for the domestic market, and these beautiful cars were apparently a work of passion. The feel-good car Nissan built – have you seen it?
Thapson
“Back to the Future”
Using the tagline, “Back to the Future,” Nissan showcased their newest creation at the 1989 Tokyo Motor Show. The Figaro, based on the Nissan Micra, is made by the Nissan’s Kei-car division. This similarity is purely mechanical. The external design is inspired from an entirely different car altogether: the 1950s German Gutbrod Superior.
Naoki Sakai and Shoji Takahashi, involved in other quintessentially Japanese Kei-cars, are chiefly attributed for the Figaro design. They are part of Nissan’s Pike Factory (formerly Aichi Machine Industry) which was involved in the design of other unique Japan-only vehicles such as Be-1, Pao, and S-Cargo.
The External …
Externally the Figaro is inspired from the German Gutbrod Superior with the overall dimensions increased, and updated with the then prevalent technology.
Retractable C-pillars, a rollback soft roof, and a hardtop frame give Figaro cars an interesting versatility. The Figaro is only made in four colors, representing the four seasons: Emerald for Spring, Pale Aqua (Summer), Topaz Mist (Autumn), and Lapis Gray (Winter).
12-inch tires, round headlights and taillights finish off the exterior. The overall appearance resembles a retro European car. Making it one of the most beautiful cars made.
Options offered as upgrades in other cars, are standard in the Figaro. These include ivory leather seats, A/C, CD player, chrome and Bakelite-style knobs, chrome-trimmed speedometer, and tachometer/clock. Fuel and engine temperature gauges are included in the speedometer.
… And The Internal
Under the hood of the Nissan Figaro is a small 4 Cylinder, 1 Liter Turbo engine mated with a 3 Speed gearbox turning out 75 HP. It’s a front wheel drive model. The result is a small, sprightly car that is a joy to drive – especially in the city. Other options that would cost extra in other cars are standard in the Figaro, including automatic transmission.
The Figaro, described as a 2+2-seater, actually seats 2 as there’s minimal leg room at back.
While it’s no muscle car, it more than makes for it with the joy of driving a very well-built car with everything you would want right out of the box.
A Renewed Popularity
The Figaro is intentionally a limited-edition vehicle. Only 20,000 of them are made in batches of an initial 8,000 followed by another 12,000. Such is their demand; a lottery decided who they would be sold to.
Once the rest of the world sees the Figaro, there’s a wide demand for it. Such is its appeal to anyone who sets their eyes on it. Brokers seek out Figaro cars for prospective buyers. They also offer parts and servicing for enthusiasts. Just like the Mini, the Beetle, and some past Citroen models, Figaro has attained a cult following.
While Nissan knew the demand for the Figaro would be strong, they likely never saw how strong it would be. A contemporary classic indeed!
Final Bit of Trivia
In 1989, when the Figaro was designed, CD players were only available in select cars. The Figaro is unique in having one available as standard option.
The number of cars broken down by color are:
5,362 Emerald
3,989 Pale Aqua
2,279 Topaz Mist
8,156 Lapis Gray
They were only made between February and September of 1991 and sold for ¥ 1,870,000 or US $16,467.62.
With the extreme demand, they were sold to buyers selected by a lottery system.
Inspired Later Model
The Figaro inspired the styling of the First-Generation Daihatsu Copen, which took elements of the design, and is powered by an even smaller turbocharged engine. The Copen is also a fully retractable hardtop, with the roof and c-pillars folding into the trunk.
So, have you seen a Figaro yet? Apparently, it brings a smile and a feel-good sensation to anyone who has. You’ll definitely fall in love, first sight, with this limited-edition, with a timeless appeal, from Nissan..
We’ll check out another unforgettable car next time. You’re welcome to comment using the form below.
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