Nissan Pulsar

The Nissan Pulsar (Japanese: 日産・パルサー, Hepburn: Nissan Parusā) is a line of automobiles produced by the Japanese automaker Nissan from 1978 until 2000, when it was replaced by the Nissan Bluebird Sylphy in the Japanese market.

Between 2000 and 2005, the name "Pulsar" has been used in Australia and New Zealand on rebadged versions of the Sylphy. This arrangement continued until the introduction of the Nissan Tiida (C11) in 2005; at this time the Pulsar name was retired. In 2013, Nissan replaced the Tiida in Australia and New Zealand with two new models badged as Pulsar. These were based on the Sylphy (B17) sedan and Tiida (C12) hatchback, the latter also sold in Thailand under the Pulsar name. In 2014, a European-only replacement for the Tiida was introduced using the Pulsar nameplate.

The original Pulsar was a hatchback to be sold exclusively at a different Nissan Japan dealership network called

The Pulsar sold in Japan originally served as the intermediate model offered at Nissan dealerships Nissan Cherry Store between the Nissan Violet and the Cherry, while different versions of the Pulsar sold at other Japanese networks served as the base model, with other larger Nissan products. Various Pulsar-based models were exported as international market conditions dictated, sometimes labeled as "Sunny", "Cherry" or "Sentra", while the internationally labeled product was actually a Pulsar and not a Japanese market Sunny or Cherry.

The name "Pulsar" is taken from pulsar (portmanteau of pulsating star), a highly magnetized, rotating neutron star.

N10, N11 (1978)

The N10 model Pulsar, introduced in May 1978, replaced the earlier

It retained the Cherry name in Europe and many other export markets, even being sold as the "Cherry Europe" in some markets such as Belgium to separate it from the Cherry F-II which remained on sale for a while. The "Cherry"-badged version was first introduced at the Dutch AutoRAI show in February 1979 and went on sale shortly thereafter.^[2] An unusual styling feature for the car was its long nose, which was due to Nissan envisaging that the car would also be built with a longitudinal rear-wheel-drive layout for developing markets; however, only front-wheel-drive models were actually built. At the time of introduction, the Pulsar only had a four-door fastback-styled sedan bodywork, and either a 1.2- or a 1.4-liter engine.^[1] The three-door and coupé hatchbacks arrived in September 1978. Many export markets also offered a 1.0-liter (A10) option, with 45 PS (33 kW) while the 1.2-liter A12 offered 52 PS (38 kW).^[3] This was the first passenger car Nissan assembled in their new Greek plant, where local partner TEOKAR built it with the 1.0 and 1.2-liter engines from 1980 on.^[4]

This model was known as the Datsun Cherry or Datsun 100A/120A/130A/140A/150A in Europe and most of Asia, and the Datsun 310 in the US and Canada. It was exported to Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and Malaysia with the Datsun Pulsar name. It entered the Australian market in October 1980, with the facelift arriving in October 1981.^[5] In New Zealand the facelift model was locally assembled from late 1981, effectively replacing the previous generation 100A which was built and sold locally in the mid-1970s. The Datsun Pulsar was also locally assembled in South Africa and in Malaysia by Tan Chong Motor.^[6] Some late South African Pulsars use the square Skyline-style head- and taillights from the Langley, including on the well-equipped Pulsar Panache model.

Another Pulsar derivative was introduced to Japan, called the

The N10 series Pulsar was available as a three- or five-door

sedan, a five-door van or station wagon, and a three-door fastback-styled coupé with a wraparound rear window introduced at the end of 1978. The van was first released in November 1978, while the export-only wagon models first appeared in early 1979.^[7] Originally the lineup consisted only of the four-door sedan which utilized the same body profile as the later hatchback models; in August 1978 the coupé and three-door hatchback models were added, along with a fuel injected version of the 1.4-liter engine.^[8] One year later a five-door hatchback appeared, replacing the four-door sedan which was immediately discontinued.^[9]

Most markets outside Japan did not receive all versions: for instance, the three- and five-door hatchbacks and the coupé were the only models to be offered in the US. Most markets never got any fuel injected versions. The 1.0-liter A10 (later also updated to an OHC engine, called E10) was never available in Japan, mainly restricted to markets where tax codes made smaller engines necessary. An interesting anomaly of the French automotive taxation system is that while the A12A-engined Cherry sedans were considered as "6 CVs", the coupés with the same engine were markedly cheaper to own as they were classified as "5 CVs".^[7] An unusual feature at the time of introduction was the split folding rear seat fitted to better equipped models, increasing versatility.^[10]

A late-term facelift in March 1981 brought Nissan's newly developed OHC E-series engines in for the last twelve months of production, which also introduced the more conventional (and industry standard) drivetrain with an end-on transmission with unequal length driveshafts - the A-Series engine cars continued to use the transmission-in-sump layout that had been used in the previous generation Cherry models. The facelift involved a new grille and rectangular headlamps. The updated 1982 model Pulsar five-door hatchback with E-series engine was assembled in New Zealand at Nissan's new factory-owned assembly plant in Wiri, Auckland. Only one well-equipped model was offered, with a five-speed manual gearbox.

In 1982 "Nissan" badges began to appear on the cars, due to Nissan phasing out the Datsun name at that time for its international markets. Production of the N10 series ceased in mid-1982, to be replaced by the all-new N12 Cherry/Pulsar.

In Japan the five-door van received the VN10 chassis code when shown in November 1978, but was then re-released in August 1979 in a version which met the 1979 commercial vehicle emissions standards — this model was designated VN11. While domestic market passenger models only received the slightly larger A12A engine, the vans and many export markets retained the smaller A12 engine (and the option of the larger A14) as also used in the preceding Cherry F-II.^[11] The van was unusual in the Japanese market for the period in being front-wheel drive; Nissan made the most of this and gave it a special rear suspension to allow for a very low loading floor. To further lower the rear opening the rear bumper was also extremely slim. This generation Pulsar van also provided the basis for the first generation of the Prairie people carrier. This van bodywork, with more comfortable fittings, was also used for the wagon model as sold in export markets. After the March 1981 facelift, the van also received the updated E13 and E15 OHC engines and now carried the VUN10 and VMN10 chassis codes. The three-door panel van model seems to have only been sold in the export.

Datsun 310

In North America the N10 Pulsar was originally sold only with the largest, 1.4-liter engine and only with four- or five-speed manual transmissions. Called the Datsun 310, in Canada it was also available with Pulsar striping on the rear quarters. Equipment levels were Deluxe or GX, and originally only the three-door hatchback or hatchback coupé bodywork were available.^[12] Only the three-door (called a "two-door sedan hatchback" in period materials^[13]) was ever available in Deluxe trim, with the GX being optional and all other bodystyles only sold in GX trim. A four-speed manual was installed in all sedans, while the GX Coupé received a five-speed unit. The three-door GX was unusual in receiving manual, remotely controlled (from the center console, behind the parking brake) rear side windows.^[14] A five-door hatchback ("sedan hatchback") model was added to the line during the 1980 model year, only in GX trim.

For 1981 the Pulsar received a facelift in North America, with a sloping, horizontal bar grille and rectangular headlights in place of the previous round units. A larger 1.5-liter engine replaced the earlier 1.4-liter unit, although in desmogged form it only produced 65 hp (48 kW).^[12] This was still a pushrod unit (unlike the new E-series which was on its way into the Pulsar in the rest of the world), with a two-barrel carburetor and a catalytic converter.^[14] The 310 never stood a great chance in North America, where the cheaper and somewhat larger rear-wheel-drive 210-series always outsold it. The lack of an automatic option was a further hindrance in the US market.

N12 (1982)

A more angular version was announced in April 1982, making its European debut in October. By this time, Nissan had more or less standardised its naming policy worldwide, so as a Nissan it tended, except in European markets, to be known as the Pulsar. In Europe it retained the "Cherry" moniker, and in Malaysia and South Africa it was sold as the Nissan Langley. This generation Pulsar sedan or hatchback was sold in North America only for model year 1983.^[15] Some unusual options were carried over from the previous generation, such as having the rear locks (on four-door models) remote operated by cable from the front seat. The rear child locks could also be controlled with a slider mounted beneath the driver's seat.^[16]

Asia

New Pulsar models were introduced in the Japanese home market with three- or five-door hatchback bodywork, as well as the

The series was facelifted at the end of March 1984, with wider and slimmer headlights. There were no longer two types of headlamps available. This is also when the Pulsar Milano trim level was introduced.[19] This was a three-door hatchback with a more European and Italianate flair - while Alfa Romeo were not involved in its development, calling the model by the name of Alfa Romeo's hometown was a nod at the collaboration. In May 1985 the turbocharger was changed to a water-cooled design.

The

In Singapore the Pulsar was clearly defined as a class below the Sunny (even though a Pulsar sedan is longer than a Sunny and sits on a longer wheelbase). While the Sunny could be had with 1.3 or 1.5-liter engines, the Pulsar was only available with the 1-litre E10 engine. It was also fitted with the small recessed lights used for the lowest-cost models. In Singaporean specifications, the E10 engine produces 52 bhp (39 kW; 53 PS) DIN and was also available together with air conditioning.[21]

Australasia

The Australian market Pulsar N12 series arrived in October 1982.^[22] Offered as a five-door hatchback, 1.3-liter TC and 1.5-liter TS specifications featured. These early cars were manufactured in Japan.^[23] May 1983 saw the debut of an update to the Australian range.^[22] Now produced locally, the update heralded minor trim changes, suspension and steering revisions and new seats. Specification levels were overhauled with the Pulsar E opening up the range with its 1.3-liter engine, followed by the 1.5-liter GL and GX. In October 1983 the sedan body was introduced in GL and GX guises (1.5-liter). A turbocharged Pulsar ET five-door arrived in April 1984, sharing its engine and trim with the EXA.^[24] It was only available with a five-speed manual. The ET also had alloy wheels, a modified suspension and various aerodynamic improvements. The engine was imported fully built from Japan, which placed a limit on how many ETs could be built without falling afoul of laws on local content.^[25]

The next update came in August 1984^[22] alongside a badge engineered twin, the Holden Astra (LB)—a scheme devised under the Button car plan.^[26] To differentiate the Pulsar, Nissan Australia applied the upmarket Japanese market Langley body details for its facelift.^[26] The headlamps were now fitted as quad units and narrower horizontal tail lamps distinguished the rear styling. Other changes included an increase in specification, minor suspension calibrations, and refreshed interior trims. Sedan versions had their facelift delayed until November that year, and the ET hatchback lingered on with the older styling until the demise of the N12 in 1987.^[27] The Australian-built Pulsar ET was also exported to New Zealand, beginning in 1985.^[28]

The final Australian N12 update arrived in April 1986 prior to the 1987 N13 introduction.^[22] The Holden version was known as the LC Astra.^[29] The revisions brought further trim changes, tweaks to the five-speed manual transmission, new colours, a new entry-level DX model, a change from GX to GXE, and the introduction of a larger displacement 1.6-liter engine tuned for unleaded petrol replacing the 1.3- and 1.5-liter leaded units used previously. The ET model also saw its 1.5-liter turbocharged engine updated for unleaded fuel.^[26][30]

The N12 was assembled in New Zealand at Nissan NZ's plant in Wiri South Auckland from 1982, and facelifted in 1984 when the main change was a switch to the now compulsory laminated windscreen. This generation was offered in both three and five door hatchback form with both 1.3- and 1.5-liter Nissan E-series engines shared with the also locally assembled Sunny sedan (NZ did not import the equivalent Pulsar sedan). The Holden Astra badged variant was not sold in New Zealand. The EXA Coupé was a limited official Nissan import new but thousands more Japanese market specification models arrived in the later 1980s and early 1990s when the NZ market was opened up to used imports.

Europe

The European market Cherrys were available with engines ranging from a 1.0-liter, 50 PS (37 kW) petrol unit via a 1270 cc 60 PS, a 1488 cc 70 PS up to the 114 PS (84 kW) turbocharged 1.5-liter E15ET and also included the diesel CD17.^[31] In early 1983, a 1.7-liter diesel option was introduced; this was the first Cherry diesel. Only a small "diesel" badge on the bootlid betrayed the engine option.^[32] To accommodate the extra 65 kg (143 lb) over the front axle, the diesel received stronger front springs and a model-specific, slightly larger, single-spoke steering wheel to counteract what would have otherwise been a heavier steering.^[33]

The Cherry Turbo was an attempt at breaking into the then very popular GTi category, but being a somewhat half-hearted effort it did not have much of an impact in the marketplace. The Turbo sat on comparatively skinny Dunlop tires and had few changes aside from its many stickers and the turbocharger. Period tests complained about peaky power delivery (and the same long gear ratios as for the regular Cherry), torque steer, and a harsh ride.^[34] The Pulsar/Cherry underwent a light facelift in July 1984.^[35]

This model was also built in Italy by

N13 (1986)

In 1986, Nissan's design chief refused to follow the smoother, aerodynamic look of other cars, and told his design team to come up with an affordable, subcompact car.^[

, this generation shares many visual styling cues with the larger car.

The N13 series EXA was spun off as its own model internationally, but retained the Pulsar NX name in the United States. It was designated as the N13 series, despite actually being based on the Nissan Sunny (B12) chassis.

Asia

The Pulsar was sold in Japan as a three- and five-door hatchback, plus a four-door sedan. There was no turbocharged version of the N13 Pulsar, with Nissan choosing to focus on multivalve engines instead. In April 1988, the 1.5-litre engines were changed to the new GA generation.

The Langley and the Liberta Villa (both sold as sedans and three-door hatchbacks)^[38] also continued sales in Japan as upmarket versions of the Pulsar, with a limited engine lineup. Both the Langley and Liberta Villa had slightly different bodywork to the Japanese-specification Pulsar—although most parts were interchangeable. Langley and Liberta Villa three-doors sported completely redesigned rear-ends, which were slightly longer and tapered off in a notchback-like manner and were much sportier in appearance with their more steeply raked rear windows. The sedans featured reshaped upper doors (windows), rear windshields, rear quarter panels, and are noted for the repositioning of the license plate to the rear bumper from the boot lid. The Langley and Liberta Villa were themselves differentiated by their own frontal styling. Compared to the Pulsar, the Langley had narrower trapezoidal-shaped headlamps and a unique grille—whereas the Liberta Villa had narrow rectangular-shaped lights and again its own grille design. The N13 Langley and Liberta Villa featured other options such as a limited-slip differential, luxurious interior and the much sought-after black headlights on the Langley, centre grille and round Skyline-style taillights, with the equipment shared in the Liberta Villa. The Japanese-market Langley five-door hatchback was dropped with the N13.

In Malaysia, the N13 Pulsar was sold as the Nissan Sentra, which was introduced in 1987 to replace the slow selling B12 Sentra. From mid-1989 it became available with the 12-valve GA16S engine, in a model called the SLX Super-valve.

• 
  Nissan Liberta Villa 3-door (Japan)
• 
  Nissan Liberta Villa sedan (Japan)

• 
  Nissan Langley 3-door (Japan)
• 
  Nissan Langley 3-door (Japan)
• 
  Nissan Langley sedan (Japan)

Oceania

The Pulsar–

Family II engine built in Australia.^[39]

Nissan introduced a facelift in 1989. After Holden ended their cooperation with Nissan in 1989 (and took up with Toyota instead), sales of the Holden Astra came to an end. Nissan Australia, however, kept using the GM engines until the succeeding N14 version was introduced.

four-cylinder engines offered in the Australian built version were:

• 1.6 L Family II 16LF, 1,598 cc, single point TBI, SOHC, 56 kW (75 hp) at 5,600 rpm, 125 N⋅m (92 lb⋅ft) at 3,600 rpm
• 1.8 L Family II 18LE, 1,796 cc, multi point EFI, SOHC, 79 kW (106 hp) at 5,600 rpm, 151 N⋅m (111 lb⋅ft) at 3,600 rpm
• 1.8 L Family II 18LE, 1,796 cc, multi point EFI, SOHC, 84 kW (113 hp) at 5,600 rpm, 162 N⋅m (119 lb⋅ft) at 3,600 rpm (SVD)

In New Zealand, the previous Sunny and Pulsar ranges were replaced by a single model line now called the Nissan Sentra—which were based on the Japanese market Pulsar and again mostly locally assembled, all with Japanese-manufactured Nissan engines. Versions in New Zealand were available in four body shapes; three-door hatchback (SG, SR), five-door hatchback (SGS, ZXE), four-door sedan (SG, SGS, ZXE), and a five-door "Sportwagon" (SG, SGS).

Six engines were offered over this generation:

• 1.3 – SG – 1985–1989 – E13
• 1.4 – SG/SGS – 1989–1991 – GA14S (59 kW (79 hp) at 6,200 rpm, 111 N⋅m (82 lb⋅ft) at 4,000 rpm)
• 1.6 – ZXE – 1985–1989 – E16
• 1.6 – ZXE – 1989–1991 – GA16S (69 kW (92 hp) at 6,000 rpm, 133 N⋅m (98 lb⋅ft) at 3,200 rpm)
• 1.6 – SR twin cam – CA16DE
• 1.8 – GTI – CA18DE

• 
  1987–1989 Nissan Pulsar Vector Ti sedan (Australia)
• 
  1989–1991 Nissan Pulsar GL 5-door (Australia)
• 
  1987–1989 Nissan Pulsar GL 5-door (Australia)
• 
  1989–1991 Nissan Pulsar Q 5-door (Australia)
• 
  1989–1991 Nissan Pulsar Vector Ti sedan (Australia)

Europe

In Europe, the N13 Pulsar was usually sold under the Nissan Sunny name - however, this was not the same car as the Nissan Sunny (B12) sold elsewhere around the same time. In Greece the N13 Pulsar retained the Cherry nameplate.^[36] Some markets (such as the United Kingdom and Greece) received a lineup starting with a 1.0-liter engine, but in most countries the 1.3 was at the bottom of the lineup. A carburetted 1.6 was also on offer (fuel injected and catalysed in some countries), as was the 1.7-liter diesel engine. Typical equipment levels for the non-sporting models were LX and SLX. Four-wheel-drive was also available in the sedan. While the Pulsar was generally sold with Sunny badging in Europe, the Sunny Wagon (B12) was sold as part of the same Sunny family.

The top version, called the Sunny GTi, initially had the 1.6-litre 16-valve engine with 110 PS (81 kW) at 6,400 rpm in the catalysed version.^[40] The version sold in countries unencumbered by emissions regulations produces 122 PS (90 kW) at 6,600 rpm.^[41] The GTi was quite discreet, with external changes limited to side skirts and small spoilers front and rear, as well as alloy wheels. When introduced, it was not a particularly strong contender in the GTi market; to rectify this Nissan later introduced a more powerful and torquier 1.8-litre version.

• 
  Pre-facelift Nissan Sunny 3-door (Europe)
• 
  Facelift Nissan Sunny 5-door (Europe)
• 
  Facelift Nissan Sunny sedan (Europe)
• 
  Facelift Nissan Sunny sedan (Europe)

Engine	Displacement		Layout	Power				Cat.	Notes
	L	cc		kW	PS	hp	at rpm
E10S	1.0	988	SOHC I4	37	50	49	6000	–	Greece, UK
E13S	1.3	1,270		44	60	59	5600	–
GA14DS	1.4	1,392	carb 12V SOHC I4	59	80	79	6200	○
E16S	1.6	1,597	carb 8V SOHC I4	62	84	83	5600	–	4x4 available
GA16DS		1,597	carb 12V SOHC I4	69	94	93	6000	–	4x4 available
				64	87	86			Low compression
GA16i			TBI 12V SOHC I4	66	90	89	6000	●	4x4 available
CA16DE		1,598	DOHC I4	90	122	120	6600	–
				81	110	108	6400	●
CA18DE	1.8	1,809		95	129	127	6400	–
				92	125	123		●
CD17	1.7	1,680	diesel 8V SOHC I4	40	55	54	4800	–

N14 (1990)

Motor vehicle

N14
Curb weight		930 kg (2,050 lb) 1,220 kg (2,690 lb) (GTI-R)

In 1990, the N14 model saw Nissan turn to a more rounded design. The Langley and the Liberta Villa were replaced with the

Nissan Prince Shop

This version of the car was launched in the United Kingdom as the Nissan Sunny from March 1991 and was the last generation of Sunny to be sold in Europe, where it was replaced late in 1995 by the Almera. One anomaly from this period resulted from Nissan taking control of its British import and distribution business from Automotive Financial Group (AFG); the acrimonious split between Nissan and Octav Botnar resulted in AFG sourcing the vehicle badged as the Pulsar and selling it concurrently in the UK alongside the "official" version (badged as the Sunny) by the newly established Nissan Motor GB. The European top-of-the-line model was the 2.0 GTI, equipped with the naturally aspirated SR20DE engine with 143 PS (105 kW) rather than the 1.8-litre version used in the home market. While powerful, the Sunny GTI was better equipped and more cosseting than its in-class competitors, with more sedate handling as well.^[43]

This version continued to be offered in

There was no N14 Pulsar offered in the United States or Canada either. Instead, the North American Pulsar for those markets evolved into what was known as the NX1600. The NX cars are coupés sharing the same chassis, engines, body electronics, and even dashboard with the Pulsar N14.

• 
  Pulsar Sedan (JDM)
• 
  Pulsar X1R five-door (JDM)
• 
  1991–1993 Pulsar SSS 5-door (Australia)
• 
  Sunny three-door (Europe)

Marketing

Japan

In Japan, the N14 range was large, comprising eight different models with a total of eighteen available variations, including six different engines, three body shapes, and two drivetrains.

• GA13DS 1,295 cc (1.3 L; 79.0 cu in), 79 PS (58 kW; 78 hp) at 6,000 rpm, 10.6 kg⋅m (104 N⋅m; 77 lb⋅ft) at 3,600 rpm
• GA15DS 1,497 cc (1.5 L; 91.4 cu in), 94 PS (69 kW; 93 hp) at 6,000 rpm, 12.8 kg⋅m (126 N⋅m; 93 lb⋅ft) at 3,600 rpm
• GA16DE 1,596 cc (1.6 L; 97.4 cu in), 110 PS (81 kW; 108 hp) at 6,000 rpm, 15 kg⋅m (147 N⋅m; 108 lb⋅ft) at 4,000 rpm
• SR18DE 1,838 cc (1.8 L; 112.2 cu in), 140 PS (103 kW; 138 hp) at 6,400 rpm, 17 kg⋅m (167 N⋅m; 123 lb⋅ft) at 4,800 rpm
• SR20DET 1,998 cc (2.0 L; 121.9 cu in), 230 PS (169 kW; 227 hp) at 6,400 rpm, 29 kg⋅m (284 N⋅m; 210 lb⋅ft) at 4,800 rpm
• CD17 1,680 cc (1.7 L; 102.5 cu in), 55 PS (40 kW; 54 hp) at 4,800 rpm, 10.6 kg⋅m (104 N⋅m; 77 lb⋅ft) at 2,800 rpm

Australia

In Australia, the N14 (aka ES) was available in four-door sedan and five-door hatchback. Nissan Australia assembled the range that sold from October 1991 to February 1993 at their factory in

The N14 Sunny was generally discontinued by September 1995, as the new Almera replaced it. The Y10-based Sunny Traveller/Wagon continued to be on offer in an dwindling number of markets until 2000, receiving light changes in April 1996, since there was no Almera wagon on offer.

• 
  Sunny five-door (Europe)
• 
  Sunny three-door (Europe)
• 
  Sunny sedan (Europe)
• 
  The Sunny GTi-R was sold in Europe in 1991 and 1992
• 
  The Nissan AD-based Sunny Traveller/Wagon continued to be sold until 2000
• 
  The AD box vans were also sold with "Sunny" badging in Europe

South Africa

In South Africa the N14 (aka ES) was built locally by Nissan South Africa. It was only available with FWD as a four-door sedan (badged Sentra) and five-door hatchback (badged Sabre). Originally released in 1994, and given a cosmetic facelift in 1997 rather than being replaced with the N15, it was produced until 2000 and also exported to Namibia.

• 160 GX – GA16DS – 1,596 cc (1.6 L; 97.4 cu in), 99 PS (73 kW; 98 hp) at 6000 rpm, 15 kg⋅m (147 N⋅m; 108 lb⋅ft) at 4000 rpm
• 160 GXi – GA16DNE – 1,596 cc (1.6 L; 97.4 cu in), 110 PS (81 kW; 108 hp) at 6000 rpm, 15 kg⋅m (147 N⋅m; 108 lb⋅ft) at 4000 rpm
• 200 GXi – SR20DE – 1,998 cc (2.0 L; 121.9 cu in), 143 PS (105 kW; 141 hp) at 6400 rpm, 18 kg⋅m (177 N⋅m; 130 lb⋅ft) at 4800 rpm

GTI-R

The N14 series also saw the introduction of the GTI-R three-door hatchback (sold in Japan as a Pulsar with chassis code E-RNN14, and sold in Europe as a Sunny with chassis code EGNN14). This was a

• 
  Nissan Pulsar GTI-R (Japan)
• 
  Nissan Pulsar GTI-R (Japan)
• 
  Nissan Pulsar GTI-R (Japan) Series 1
• 
  Nissan Pulsar GTI-R NISMO
• 
  Nissan Pulsar GTI-R (Japan)
• 
  Nissan Pulsar GTI-R (Japan) DL2

Models

There were several different models of the GTI-R sold to the general public,^[50][51] identifiable by the model number found on the VIN plate located on the firewall in the engine bay.

• GTI-RA: Model number EBYNRVFN14T******* (aka RA / Alpha / Road / Luxury). This was the normal road car, which came standard with
  power windows and mirrors, and ABS. Roughly halfway through the production (August 1992), Nissan made a range of cosmetic changes to the interior of the RA model (mostly replacing trim that was unique to the GTI-R with trim that was common to other models in the N14 range). Although not advertised or branded as such, they were extensive enough (around 10 items) to be noticeable as a different phase or series, and are defined by chassis numbers RNN14-100000 and above. They were priced at ¥2,270,000.^[50]
• GTI-RB: Model number EBYNRRFN14T******* (aka RB / Base / Beta /
  limited slip differentials and upgraded suspension).^[52] Those that were ordered with Nismo parts not suitable for dealer install were sent to Autech for factory
  installation. 21 Pulsar GTI-R NISMO were built in total. The only external visual difference to the RA is non-colour-coded side mirrors.
• plates). The interior varied from the RA Pulsar with some of the more basic trim from the RB model and different scaling on the gauges.^[51]

• Nismo:
  limited slip differentials, roll cage and foot rests), and strengthening plates spot welded to the strut towers. A total of 21 were produced, with an individually numbered Nismo VIN plate on the firewall.^[50] At least one was used by Nissan/Nismo as a promotional vehicle,^[49] the others were ordered by private buyers. They were priced at ¥3,140,000.^[50]
• Group A: The
  rallycross events.^[53] Tony Bardy regularly competed in UK rallies using one until 2015.^[54] Nissan has the 1991 Acropolis rally and the 1992 RAC rally entry vehicles on display at the Nissan Heritage Collection in Japan.^[55][56]

• Pulsar GTI-RA = 13131[57]
• Pulsar GTI-RB = 701^[57]
• Pulsar Unknown = 10^[57]
• Pulsar GTI-R TOTAL = 13842^[57]
• Sunny GTI-R LHD = 668^[51]
• Sunny GTI-R RHD = 103^[51]
• Sunny GTI-R TOTAL = 771^[51]
• GTI-R TOTAL = 14613^[58]

WRC

Group A

After producing the minimum required 5,000 examples (500 of them being homologation models), Nissan entered the GTI-R under

1992

.

Based in Milton Keynes, NME only competed in selected rallies during both years (ones they thought had the highest potential for good results), but the initial success expected by Nissan Japan was not forthcoming, and they abandoned the campaign in 1992 after only nine rallies. Factory development stopped there, and the GTI-R never won a WRC Group A rally. Nissan redirected funding to Le Mans and the development of the R390, and NME moved their focus to the FWD Sunny GTI in the WRC F2 category (A7 class) where they had success with Alister McRae winning the 1995 BRC. It is generally agreed that the Group A GTI-R campaign failure was due to the combination of the uncompetitive Dunlop tyres, the inefficiency of the top-mounted intercooler when engine power was increased to Group A standards (especially in hot weather), and the political and cultural issues between Nissan Japan and the newly created NME.^[59]

1991 results (Group A)
	Round 4	Round 6	Round 9	Round 14
	39th Martini Safari rally Kenya	38th Acropolis Rally	41st 1000 Lakes Rally	47th Lombard RAC Rally
Stig Blomqvist	5th	DNF (differential)	8th	DNF (suspension)
David Llewellin	DNF (accident)	9th	10th	DNF (electrical)
Mike Kirkland	7th

1992 results (Group A)
	Round 1	Round 2	Round 3	Round 9	Round 14
	60th Rallye Automobile de Monte-Carlo	41st International Swedish Rally	25th Rallye de Portugal	42nd 1000 Lakes Rally	48th Lombard RAC Rally
Stig Blomqvist		3rd		DNF (engine)	DNF (accident)
Tommi Mäkinen	9th		DNF (accident)	DNF (gearbox)	8th
François Chatriot	7th		6th

Group N

Nissan/NME did not enter Group N (production) cars in the World Rally Championship, but they helped develop a car for the Nissan Belgium Rally Team^[59] with lead driver Grégoire De Mévius.^[60] Together with Japanese privateer team Nishiyama Racing driven by Hiroshi Nishiyama, the GTI-R had great success in the Group N Championship (FIA) Cup for Drivers of Production Cars in 1992 taking 1st and 2nd places, clearly demonstrating the GTI-R's the ability at production class level.^[61]

1992 results (Group N)
	Round 3	Round 4	Round 6	Round 8	Round 9	Round 12	Round 14	Final Classification
	26th Rallye de Portugal	40th Martini Safari Rally Kenya	39th Acropolis Rally	12th Rally Argentina	42nd 1000 Lakes Rally	24th Rallye Côte d'Ivoire Bandama	48th Lombard RAC Rally
Grégoire De Mévius	3rd		1st	DNF (Late for start)	3rd	DNF (Engine)	2nd	1st
Hiroshi Nishiyama		3rd		2nd		1st		2nd

• 
  Nissan Pulsar GTI-R Group A (Japan)

N15 (1995)

In 1995, the N15 Pulsar was launched as a compact car, rather than subcompact, and sold in Europe as the Nissan Almera. The New Zealand Nissan Sentra changed name to Pulsar after the Nissan assembly plant in Wiri, Auckland closed down in 1998, in favor of imports from Japan. Again, four- and five-door models were offered, with three-door models being available in Europe and Japan only, and not Australia and New Zealand. North American customers did not receive this car, with the Sunny-based Sentra B14 being sold there instead.

The chassis designation "N" series carried over to the

The Australasian versions included the LX, SLX, Q and SSS variants. New Zealand specific versions included the S and SE variant. The SSS model (5-door hatch only) featured the SR20DE engine featuring 105 kW (141 hp)/179 Nm.

The station wagon continued to be from the Sunny, later spun off in Japan into the

Trim levels

Japan

Facelift Nissan Pulsar sedan (Japan)

1997 Nissan Pulsar Serie 3-door (Japan)

Nissan Lucino S-RV

In Japan, the N15 was available under numerous nameplates, giving Nissan in Japan the opportunity to sell the Pulsar at two different Japanese network dealerships, called

Japanese market N15 Pulsar and Lucino models had drivers airbag as standard. Passenger airbag was an option in 1995 and standard from 1996 onwards. Speedometer became digital from 1998. Tachometer was not present on Pulsar Serie Rezzo, Pulsar CJ-I, CJ-II and Lucino BB models. Air conditioning was standard on almost all models, but could be requested without. Manual adjusting windows were available on Pulsar Serie Rezzo, Pulsar CJ-I, CJ-II and Lucino BB models, otherwise electric windows were standard. Sunroof was available option on Pulsar Serie X1, Pulsar Serie X1R, Pulsar GTI, Pulsar VZR and Pulsar / Lucino SR-V models (hatch only). Manual controlled air conditioning controls were standard, climate control was available as option and standard on Pulsar Serie X1R, Pulsar GTI and Pulsar VZ-R.

An Autech Trimmed version of the Pulsar SRV and Lucino SRV known as the "Aero Sport" was also available. Equip with the standard SR20DE, compression Ratio : 10.0, maximum power 150PS(110KW). Indicative features included the placement of the spare-wheel on the rear boot lid, inclusion of rubber side moldings over the wheel arches, large rear spoiler, extra rubber door protectors, And unique decals on the sides of the car. As a result of shifting the spare-wheel to the boot lid, the number plate had to be relocated in the rear bumper, meaning a bumper was produced specific for this model. Extra features on this model were limited to the additional body kit.

Configurations:

The N15 Nissan Pulsar came with the following engine options:

GA14DE — 1400 cc DOHC MPFI. Featured in the European Nissan Almera LX, Almera S.

GA15DE — 1500 cc DOHC MPFI. Featured in the New Zealand Sentra S, JDM Pulsar Serie Rezzo, JDM Pulsar Serie X1, JDM Pulsar CJ-I, JDM Pulsar CJ-II, JDM Pulsar SR-V, JDM Lucino BB, JDM Lucino JJ and JDM Lucino SR-V. There was a 4-wheel drive variant of the GA engine series available in the JDM Pulsar SR-V and JDM Lucino SR-V 5-door hatch and some JDM Pulsar CJ-I, Pulsar CJ-II and JDM Pulsar X1 4-door sedans.

GA16DE — 1600 cc DOHC multi-point EFI (sometimes ECCS featured). Featured in the Australian and New Zealand new models Sentra SE, Sentra SLX Sentra Q and JDM Pulsar X1R hatch and sedan variants, and the European Almera SR, ALMERA SRI.

SR18DE — 1800 cc DOHC multi-point EFI. Featured in the JDM Pulsar GTI 3-door hatch and 4-door sedan, JDM Pulsar SR-V 5-door hatch models. 4-wheel drive variant of SR engine series available in JDM Pulsar SR-V model.

SR20DE – 2000 cc DOHC multi-point EFI. Featured in Australian and New Zealand (Australian assembled) Sentra and Pulsar SSS variant delivered with silver/red rocker cover, also called "Red Top" 105 kW (141 hp) at 6400 rpm / 179 N⋅m (132 lb⋅ft) at 4800 rpm-4800 rpm^{[clarification needed]} / 0–100 km/h (62 mph) 8.2 seconds / Curb weight 1,142 kg (2,518 lb).

Autech Version SR20DE — 1998 cc DOHC multi-point EFI. Only Sold locally in Japan. Was used in Pulsar Serie and Lucino Japanese Variants (576 produced total). These cars were delivered from Nissan as standard front wheel drive N15 GTI's, and delivered to Autech for Tuning. The cars were than striped, seam welded for added rigidity, and Autech body kits including unique Front bumper, Side skirt and Rear wing. Autech interiors including unique pattern interior, Autech labeled clusters, and Finally Autech Sr20DE engines were installed. Which is why they are stamped SR18DE, as this is the original size of the engine from the GTI. The tuned SR20DE found in these cars, were engines that Autech had from producing the P10 Primera Autech, However, due to multiple factors, Primarily stricter emission standards, and also Nissan about to release the SR16VE, it was de-tuned from the original P10 Autech, losing 5HP and 3NM of torque as well as a less aggressive power curve to meet the stricter emission standards. Featured compression ratio of 11.5:1, 264 duration at 11.4 mm lift camshafts, unique valve springs, portwork, and unique pistons to achieve high compression. Power is stated as 175 bhp (130 kW) at the flywheel. 191 N⋅m (141 lb⋅ft) at 4800 rpm.

SR16VE — NEO VVL (Nissan Ecologically Orientated Variable Valve Timing and Lift). Featured in the 3 & 4 JDM Pulsar/Lucino Serie VZ-R, as well as the B14 Sunny. Producing 175 PS (129 kW; 173 hp) from its 1.6L. Identifiable by the unique blue valve cover.

VZR Autech A Pulsar/ Lucino Variant of the VZ-R, Equip with the standard SR16VE from the VZR producing 175 PS (129 kW; 173 hp), with an additional body kit & interior pieces. Additional extras include, Unique Autech front bumper & fog lights, side skirts, bumper end caps, N1 Spoiler, Fujitsubo Muffler, Unique trimmed Seats / Door Trim, Momo Steering Wheel, Leather Gear knob & Hand Break lever with Red stitching, Autech labeled cluster.

SR16VE N1 — Featured in the JDM Pulsar VZ-R N1, which was a racing homologation version intended to compete with the Honda Civic Type R. Producing 200 PS (147 kW; 197 hp) from its 1.6 L SR16VE engine, it held the highest specific output ever for a naturally aspirated production car, at 123.125 hp/liter until the Honda F20C engine was released in the Honda S2000. The "Version2" (VerII) was introduced offering a few chassis and mechanical tweaks as well as an option orange trimmed interior with GTR Skyline front seats. N1's available in Black, White and Red.

CD20 — 2000 cc SOHC CRDi Diesel engine Featured in the European Almera GX.

• 
  Pre-facelift Nissan Pulsar 5-door (Australia)
• 
  Pre-facelift Nissan Pulsar sedan (Australia)
• 
  Facelift Nissan Pulsar 5-door (Australia)
• 
  Facelift Nissan Pulsar 5-door (Australia)
• 
  Facelift Nissan Pulsar sedan (Australia)

N16 (2000)

In Australia and New Zealand, Nissan continued to use the Pulsar name for the N16 series that was labelled

• 
  Nissan Pulsar (N16, 2000–2005)
• 
  Nissan Pulsar (N16, 2000–2005)

B17 (2013)

The B17 series Sylphy sedan was marketed as the Nissan Pulsar for the Australian and New Zealand markets from 2013. The model was discontinued in these two markets in April 2017, alongside the L33 Altima with no successor.^[62]

• 
  Nissan Pulsar (B17, 2013–2017)
• 
  Nissan Pulsar (B17, 2013–2017)

C12 (2013)

The C12 Pulsar hatchback was released in 2013 as a rebadged Nissan Tiida for Australia, New Zealand and Thailand. The C12 model was discontinued in Australia and New Zealand in April 2016 alongside the K13 Micra hatchback with no successor. It was also discontinued in Thailand in 2018, while it continues to be marketed in Taiwan as the Nissan Tiida.

• 
  Nissan Pulsar (C12, 2013–2018)
• 
  Nissan Pulsar (C12, 2013–2018)

C13 (2014)

Rear view

Interior

On 16 May 2014, Nissan revealed the C13 series Pulsar for the European market. Based on the CMF platform, this model does not replace the C12 version, but is a European-only alternative.^[64][65] The C13 Pulsar signifies Nissan's reentry into the highly competitive compact hatchback segment, following the withdrawal of the Tiida from the market in 2011. It marks the first time the Pulsar nameplate has officially been used in mainland Europe, rather than the Cherry, Sunny and Almera nameplates that have been used in Europe over the generations. European sales began in March 2015. Pulsars for sale in Europe were built at Nissan's Barcelona plant in Spain.^[66]

Initially, the C13 Pulsar was available with a 113 bhp (84 kW) 1.2-liter DiG-T petrol engine with CVT transmission or a 1.5-liter diesel unit producing 104 bhp (78 kW).^[67][68] In October 2014, Nissan introduced the 1.6-liter DIG-T which develops 140 kW (188 hp) and went on sale since March 2015.^[69]

The model was marketed in Russia since March 2015 as the Nissan Tiida, where it was assembled in Izhevsk from January 2015,^[70][71] but production only lasted until December of the same year due to low sales.^[72] It is also sold in China as the C13 series Nissan Tiida since 2016 after being displayed at the April 2016 Auto China. In other Asian markets, the Nissan Pulsar is launched in Singapore since January 2017.

The Pulsar was discontinued in Europe on 12 September 2018 due to poor demand, with Spanish production having ended in June of the same year. The Almera sedan was also discontinued in the Russian market alongside the Pulsar with sales and production ending in October 2018.^[72] The model is still sold in China under the Tiida nameplate with a 1.6-litre NA engine.

Sales

References