The Nissan Pulsar NX: A Look Back at a Unique 80s Hatchback
The Nissan Pulsar NX, introduced in 1987, was a unique and fascinating car that made an impression on the American automotive market. Designed as a compact hatchback with a swappable rear body attachment, the Pulsar NX was known for its versatility and distinctive style. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the 1987-1990 Pulsar NX and explore its key features and specifications.
### The Evolution of the Nissan Pulsar in the United States
The history of the Nissan Pulsar in the United States can be traced back to the 1979 Datsun 310, which was later rebranded as the Nissan Pulsar. The Pulsar made a comeback in the American market in 1987, offering consumers a unique alternative to traditional hatchbacks and coupes. With its compact size and innovative design, the Pulsar NX quickly gained a following among car enthusiasts.
### The Swappable Rear Body Attachments
One of the standout features of the 1987-1990 Pulsar NX was its swappable rear body attachments. In addition to the coupe piece, the Pulsar NX also came with a wagon-shaped “Sportbak” attachment, allowing drivers to customize their car’s look to suit their preferences. The option to remove the attachment completely and create a quasi-convertible added to the car’s appeal, especially when combined with the removable T-top roof panels.
### Performance and Specifications
Equipped with a fuel-injected 1.6-liter SOHC straight-four engine, the 1987 Pulsar NX offered a modest 70 horsepower and 94 pound-feet of torque. While the base model came with a four-speed automatic transmission, the SE trim level featured a more powerful DOHC engine, providing a more exhilarating driving experience. With its lightweight design and compact dimensions, the Pulsar NX was known for its agility and nimble handling on the road.
### Pricing and Features
The base model 1987 Pulsar NX had an MSRP of $11,059, which would be equivalent to around $30,673 in today’s dollars. Despite its affordable price point, the Pulsar NX came with a range of features, including factory air conditioning and an optional Fujitsu TEN AM/FM/cassette radio. The sleek and modern interior design, coupled with the distinctive taillight treatment and speaker grilles, set the Pulsar NX apart from its competitors in the compact hatchback segment.
### Legacy and Successor Models
The Nissan Pulsar NX enjoyed a successful run in the United States until it was eventually replaced by the NX1600 and NX2000 models in the early 1990s. While the Pulsar NX may no longer be in production, its innovative design and unique features continue to be appreciated by car enthusiasts and collectors alike. The legacy of the Pulsar NX lives on in the hearts of those who appreciate its distinctive style and performance capabilities.
In conclusion, the Nissan Pulsar NX was a standout performer in the 1980s hatchback segment, offering drivers a unique combination of style, versatility, and performance. With its swappable rear body attachments, affordable price point, and innovative design features, the Pulsar NX left a lasting impression on the American automotive market. Whether cruising down city streets or hitting the open highway, the Pulsar NX was the car for people who knew where they were going and wanted to get there in style.