100 NX1.6 Coupe (1990-96)
đ Nissan 100NX 1.6 Coupe (1990â1996): Concept & Intention Summary
When Nissan launched the 100NX 1.6 Coupe in the early â90s, it was aiming to inject a dose of flair and versatility into the compact coupĂ© segmentâparticularly in European markets. Here's what shaped its purpose:
đŻ Strategic Purpose
Attract younger buyers seeking sporty styling without the insurance premiums or price tags of more serious performance cars.
Serve as a stylish alternative to conservative hatchbacks, sitting alongside the Sunny but with more attitude.
Tap into the burgeoning âlifestyle carâ trend, with features like the removable T-bar roof, which echoed Nissanâs flair from the Z-cars.
âïž Technical Philosophy
Featured a GA16DE 1.6L DOHC engineânot blistering fast, but zippy enough to complement its nimble chassis.
Front-wheel drive ensured predictable handling and ease of maintenance.
Delivered decent fuel economy and reliability, giving it genuine everyday usability.
𧩠Design Intent
Compact coupe body style with distinctive rounded rear, pop-up headlights, and a T-top roof optionâunique at this price point.
Styling aimed to be quirky yet sporty, helping it stand out from competitors like the Vauxhall Tigra or VW Scirocco.
đ Market Positioning
Primarily targeted at European markets, especially the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands, where it found modest popularity.
Positioned below Nissanâs more performance-oriented offerings like the 200SX and above the utilitarian Sunny.
Priced to be accessible and insurable, making it a popular first or second car among style-conscious buyers.
The 100NX wasnât designed to dominate racetracksâit was Nissanâs way of saying that driving could be fun, affordable, and a little bit different.
*****
Global Popularity
đ The Nissan 100NX (1990â1996) was not globally popular in the mass-market senseâbut it did carve out regional appeal, especially in Europe. Its unique styling and accessible coupe format earned it a modest following, though it never reached the blockbuster status of some contemporaries.
đȘđș European Success
United Kingdom and Germany were its most receptive markets, thanks to affordable pricing and Nissanâs strong dealer presence.
The quirky T-bar roof and front-wheel-drive layout made it an appealing option for younger drivers.
It became a popular entry-level coupe, often bought as a first âfunâ car.
đŻđ” Japan
It shared underpinnings with the domestic-market Nissan NX-Coupe, but the 100NX name was not prominent.
Styling quirks didnât fully resonate with traditional Japanese buyers, limiting its impact.
đșđž United States
Known as the Nissan NX1600/NX2000, it garnered a niche enthusiast baseâparticularly the higher-powered NX2000 with multi-link suspension.
Despite praise for handling, it remained overshadowed by models like the Honda CR-X and Toyota Paseo.
đ Other Regions
Sold in limited numbers in countries like New Zealand, Australia, and parts of Scandinavia, typically viewed as a curiosity more than a staple.
Insurance-friendly design and reliable drivetrain made it practical, but its unconventional looks narrowed its appeal.
In hindsight, the 100NX feels like a hidden gemâquirky, cheerful, and mechanically sound, but lacking the universal charm needed for global domination.
*****
Significance
The Nissan 100NX 1.6 Coupe (1990â1996) was a curious footnote in Nissanâs European strategyâmodest in impact, but not without its quirks and quiet contributions. Here's how it fits into the broader picture:
đ Market Positioning & Strategic Role
Youth Appeal: Designed to attract younger buyers, the 100NX offered a sporty look with a lift-off targa roof, yet retained the mechanical simplicity of the Nissan Sunny.
Affordable Coupe Segment: It competed with cars like the Mazda MX-3 and Toyota Paseo, offering a budget-friendly alternative to more flamboyant rivals like the Vauxhall Tigra and Ford Puma.
European Focus: While it was sold globally, the 1.6 variant was tailored for the UK and European markets, where insurance and running costs mattered more than outright performance.
đ§ Engineering & Platform Sharing
Sunny Underpinnings: Built on the B13 Sunny platform, it benefited from proven reliability and parts commonality, which helped keep costs down and simplified servicing.
GA16DS/GA16DE Engines: The 1.6-litre 16-valve engine evolved during its run, starting with 90 bhp and later reaching 102 bhp. It wasnât thrilling, but it was dependable.
đ Sales & Legacy
Limited Sales Volume: Only around 5,000 units were sold in the UK, making it a rare sight today. Its low profile meant it never became a halo car or a volume seller.
Cult Following: Despite its modest reception, the 100NX has gained a niche following among enthusiasts who appreciate its simplicity, reliability, and open-top charm.
đ Broader Impact on Nissan
Design Experimentation: The 100NX reflected Nissanâs willingness to experiment with Californian styling and niche formats, even if the results were commercially muted.
Transition Era: It bridged the gap between the boxy 1980s and the more sculpted designs of the late â90s, helping Nissan test the waters in the compact coupe segment.
In short, the 100NX wasnât a game-changerâbut it was a quietly competent coupe that showed Nissanâs versatility and helped round out its lineup during a transitional era.
*****
COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000â12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.
The Nissan 100NX, like many cars of its era, has a few common faults that owners have reported over the years. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:
1. **Timing Chain Noise**: Some owners have reported a clanking noise from the timing chain area. While the timing chain is generally maintenance-free, it can develop issues over time.
2. **Hesitation and Rough Running**: There have been reports of the car hesitating or running roughly, especially in models with a carburettor and catalytic converter. This combination can sometimes cause issues.
3. **Electrical Problems**: Some owners have experienced issues with the car's electrical system, including problems with the alternator and battery used car review | Car review - RAC](https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/car-reviews/nissan/100nx/100nx-1991-1995/).
4. **Rust**: Like many older cars, the Nissan 100NX can be prone to rust, particularly in areas like the wheel arches and underbody used car review | Car review - RAC](https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/car-reviews/nissan/100nx/100nx-1991-1995/).
5. **Suspension Wear**: Over time, the suspension components can wear out, leading to a less comfortable ride and potential handling issues used car review | Car review - RAC](https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/car-reviews/nissan/100nx/100nx-1991-1995/).
Despite these common faults, the Nissan 100NX is generally considered a reliable and fun car to drive. If you're thinking about getting one, it's a good idea to have it thoroughly inspected by a mechanic to ensure it's in good condition.
*****
Generations/Trim Levels
The Nissan 100NX had a single generation produced from **1990 to 1996**. It was available in several trim levels, each offering different features and engine options. Here are the main trim levels:
1. **1.6**: This base model came with a 1.6-liter engine producing around 90-102 horsepower. It was available with both a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic transmission.
2. **1.6 Targa**: Similar to the base model but with a Targa top, allowing for a semi-convertible experience.
3. **2.0 GTI**: The sportier version, equipped with a 2.0-liter engine producing around 143 horsepower. It was available with a 5-speed manual transmission and featured sportier suspension and styling elements.
The 100NX was known for its unique design, including the Targa top option, which was quite rare for cars in its class.
*****
Designer/Dimensions
The Nissan 100NX was designed by **Jerry Hirshberg** at Nissan Design International (NDI) in San Diego. It was a unique and sporty compact car with the following dimensions:
- **Wheelbase**: 2,430 mm (96 in)
- **Length**: 4,135-4,140 mm (163-163 in)
- **Width**: 1,680 mm (66 in)
- **Height**: 1,310-1,315 mm (52-52 in)
- **Curb Weight**: 940-1,150 kg (2,070-2,540 lb)
These dimensions contributed to its distinctive look and agile handling.
*****
Engine
The Nissan 100NX was fitted with two main engine options:
1. **1.6-liter GA16DS Inline-4**:
- Power Output: **101-102 horsepower** (75 kW)
- Torque: **98 lb-ft** (133 Nm)
2. **2.0-liter SR20DE Inline-4**:
- Power Output: **143 horsepower** (105 kW)
- Torque: **132 lb-ft** (179 Nm)
These engines provided a good balance of performance and efficiency, making the 100NX a fun and sporty compact car to drive.
*****
Performance
The Nissan 100NX offered respectable performance for its class. Here are some key performance specifications:
1. **1.6-liter GA16DS Inline-4**:
- Top Speed: **119 mph** (191 km/h)
- 0-60 mph: **11.2 seconds**
2. **2.0-liter SR20DE Inline-4**:
- Top Speed: **130 mph** (209 km/h)
- 0-60 mph: **8.1 seconds**
These figures made the 100NX a fun and sporty car to drive, especially considering its compact size and unique design.
*****
Main Rivals (Performance)
Here are the performance specifications for the main rivals of the Nissan 100NX in 1990:
1. **Honda CRX**:
- Engine: 1.6-liter Inline-4
- Power Output: **108-150 horsepower** (depending on the variant)
- Top Speed: **125-135 mph** (201-217 km/h)
- 0-60 mph: **7.5-8.5 seconds**
2. **Mazda MX-3**:
- Engine: 1.8-liter V6
- Power Output: **130 horsepower**
- Top Speed: **125 mph** (201 km/h)
- 0-60 mph: **8.4 seconds**
3. **Toyota Paseo**:
- Engine: 1.5-liter Inline-4
- Power Output: **100 horsepower**
- Top Speed: **115 mph** (185 km/h)
- 0-60 mph: **9.5 seconds**
These sporty compact cars offered a range of performance options, catering to different preferences and driving styles.
*****
Spares/Specialists NI
You can find spare parts for the Nissan 100NX in the UK and Ireland at several online stores. Here are a couple of options:
1. [Auto Parts Pro](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/nissan-100-nx-carparts): They offer a wide range of replacement parts for the Nissan 100NX, including brakes, filters, suspension components, and more.
2. [EU Spares](https://www.euspares.co.uk/original-parts/nissan/100-nx): This site provides OE original parts for the Nissan 100NX, including bulbs, spark plugs, brake fluid, and more.
**
There are several garage services available for the Nissan 100NX in Northern Ireland. Here are a few options:
1. **Hurst Nissan Centre**: Located at 62 Boucher Road, Belfast BT12 6HR. They offer a range of services for Nissan vehicles.
2. **Shelbourne Motors Nissan**: Located at 334 Tandragee Rd, Portadown, Craigavon BT62 3RB. They provide exceptional service levels and a wide range of aftersales services.
3. **ClickMechanic**: They offer mobile mechanic services across Northern Ireland, bringing the service to your doorstep.
These garages and services should be able to help you with any maintenance or repairs needed for your Nissan 100NX.
*****
Racing
The Nissan 100NX did not have a significant presence in professional racing. However, it was popular among amateur racers and car enthusiasts who participated in local and regional events. The car's lightweight design and sporty handling made it a fun choice for autocross and track days.
If you're interested in racing history, the Nissan NX2000, a close relative of the 100NX, was included in a 1992 Road & Track magazine test of the world's best-handling cars, competing against models like the Acura NSX, Porsche 911, and Mazda Miata.
*****
Valuation
The value of a Nissan 100NX in the UK in 2025 can vary depending on its condition, mileage, and any modifications. On average, you can expect to find a well-maintained Nissan 100NX priced between **ÂŁ3,000 and ÂŁ6,000**.
If you're looking to buy or sell one, it's always a good idea to check current listings on websites like [Parkers](https://www.parkers.co.uk/nissan/100-nx/used-prices/) or [The Classic Valuer](https://www.theclassicvaluer.com/cars/nissan/100nx) for the most accurate and up-to-date valuations.
*****
Clubs
There are owners clubs for the Nissan 100NX in Northern Ireland. One notable club is the [Nissan Owners Club](https://www.nissanownersclub.com/forums/topic/21281-nissan-100nx/), which has a dedicated section for the 100NX. Additionally, the [100NXC Nissan Club](https://www.ukmotoringdirectory.co.uk/100nxc-nissan-club) is another great resource for enthusiasts and owners of the Nissan 100NX.
These clubs offer a great way to connect with other owners, share experiences, and find support for maintenance and restoration.
*****