Nissan Figaro

The Nissan Figaro is a small retro car manufactured by Nissan. The car was originally sold only in Japan. Despite this, the Nissan Figaro has become popular with celebrity owners in the UK, given the popularity of second-hand Japanese import cars.

Overview

The Figaro was introduced at the 1989 Tokyo Motor Show under the slogan "Back to the Future". It was built by a Nissan special projects group called Pike Factory, who also produced other niche automobiles such as the Be-1, Pao and S-Cargo. Only four colours were available: Topaz Mist, Emerald Green, Pale Aqua and Lapis Grey. Each colour symbolised a season of the year. When the car was launched, topaz mist was the least popular colour. There were only 2,000 produced in Topaz mist hence they have become increasingly rare.

The Figaro was equipped with leather seats, air conditioning, CD player and a open roof. It was designed by Shoji Takahashi, who won a design competition with the car.

The engine was Nissan's MA10ET, a turbocharged 1.0L (987cc) I4.

Only 8,000 were originally available with an additional 12,000 added to production numbers to meet demand. Prospective purchasers had to enter a lottery to be able to buy one of these cars. Limited edition cars came with passenger side baskets and cup holders. These now fetch hundreds on internet auction sites.

In The Sarah Jane Adventures, Sarah Jane Smith drives a green Figaro, which was also featured in the finale of Doctor Who's fourth series.

Specifications

Size

• Interior Width: 1310 mm (51.57 in)
• Interior Height: 1130 mm (44.49 in)
• Treadwidth: Front: 1335 mm (52.56 in), Rear: 1350 mm (53.15 in)
• Riding Capacity: Four people

Weight

• Max laden weight: 1235 kg (2723 lb)
• Max rolling weight: 1835 kg (4045 lb)
• Max load (front axle): 620 kg (1367 lb)
• Max load (rear axle): 625 kg (1378 lb)
• Max trailer weight (with brakes): 310 kg (683 lb)
• Max trailer weight (without brakes): 600 kg (1323 lb)