Nissan Figaro The Nissan Figaro is a unique and iconic retro-styled car that has captured the hearts of enthusiasts since its debut. Below is a detailed overview of the Figaro, including its history, modern iterations, and key features:
1. Overview & History
- The Nissan Figaro was first introduced in 1991 as a limited-edition “retro fashion car,” with only 20,000 units produced for the Japanese market 911.
- Designed by Shoji Takahashi, the Figaro drew inspiration from Swatch watches and classic European cars, blending vintage aesthetics with compact practicality 11.
- Its design features include round lamps, curvaceous lines, and a convertible top, making it instantly recognizable 9.
2. The 2025 Nissan Figaro & Remastered Edition
- 2025 Nissan Figaro (New Model):
- A modern revival with retro-inspired styling and updated technology. Features include advanced infotainment, improved performance, and a blend of vintage charm with contemporary engineering 4.
- Promotional highlights include exclusive first-look videos and comparisons with the classic Figaro 4.
- Figaro Remastered 2025 (Restored Classic):
- A handcrafted, luxury-restored version of the original 1991 model by The Figaro Shop.
- Upgrades include:
- 987cc turbocharged engine (75hp).
- 3-speed automatic transmission.
- Modern tech like Apple Car Play, rear parking sensors, and heated seats.
- Premium interiors with Italian leather upholstery and soundproofing 9.
- Priced at £59,995, with a 16-week build time 9.
3. Cultural Significance & Community
- The Figaro has a dedicated fanbase, with events like the 34th Birthday Celebration on February 14, 2025, organized by the Figaro Owners Club 11.
- Owners often share restoration stories, vintage brochures, and design insights, highlighting its timeless appeal 11.
4. Key Features (Classic vs. Modern)
Aspect 1991 Original 2025 Remastered 2025 New Model
Engine 1.0L NA (73hp) 987cc Turbo (75hp) Likely electrified/hybrid?
Transmission 3-speed auto 3-speed auto Modern auto (details TBA)
Tech Basic radio Apple Car Play, subwoofer Advanced touchscreen
Price ~£5,000 (used) £59,995 (restored) TBA
1. Origins & Production Details
- Limited Run: Only 20,000 units made (1991), all RHD and sold via lottery in Japan due to high demand.
- Design Inspiration: Combines 1960s European roadster cues (like the Fiat 500) with Japanese kawaii (cute) aesthetics.
- Platform: Based on the Nissan Micra (K10) chassis but with unique bodywork and interior.
2. Technical Specifications (Original 1991 Model)
Fun Fact: The turbocharger was added to compensate for the small engine size, giving it a peppy urban drive.
3. Buying a Used Figaro (Classic Model)
- Price Range (2024):
- £8,000–£20,000 depending on condition (pristine models command premiums).
- Japanese imports (auction grades 3.5–5) are common in the UK/EU.
- Key Checks:
- Rust: Wheel arches, sills, and floor pans (salt exposure in Japan).
- Turbo Health: Listen for whining or smoke (spares are scarce).
- Electrics: Roof mechanism and vintage wiring.
- Modifications: Popular upgrades include 5-speed manual swaps (from Mic RAS) or EV conversions.
4. The 2025 Remastered Edition (Resto mod)
-
- By The Figaro Shop (UK):
- Engine: Retains original turbo but with rebuilt internals for reliability.
- Interior: Full modern luxe—Italian leather, USB ports, soundproofing.
- Colors: Custom options (e.g., “Mint Green” or “Millennium Jade”).
- Target Buyers: Collectors wanting a “new” Figaro with warranties.
5. Enthusiast Community & Events
- Clubs:
- Figaro Owners Club (UK): Annual meetups, tech guides.
- Japanese Nostalgic Car Forums: Hunting for OEM parts.
- Pop Culture: Featured in movies (e.g., “The Secret Life of Pets”) and JDM influencer content.
6. Why the Hype?
- Scarcity + Charm: Its limited run and retro-futuristic design make it a future classic.
- Customization: A blank canvas for resto mods or period-correct restorations.
Secret History & Behind-the-Scenes Drama
- The “Swatch Car” Connection:
Nissan’s designers were inspired by Swatch’s colorful, interchangeable watches—leading to the Figaro’s four launch colors: Topaz Mist (green), Emerald Green, Pale Aqua, and Lapis Grey (each named after gemstones). - Lottery Sales Scandal:
Demand was so insane in 1991 that Nissan used a lottery system. Rumors persist that Yakuza members bribed dealers to skip the queue! - Almost a Mazda:
The design team initially pitched the concept to Mazda, who rejected it. Nissan took the risk, and it became a surprise hit.
2. Bizarre Technical Quirks Only Owners Know
- The “Figaro Shuffle”:
Due to a tiny fuel tank (28L) and thirsty turbo engine, owners joke about “shuffling” between gas stations. - Mysterious Roof Leaks:
The manual folding top has 17 separate parts—seals degrade over time, causing infamous “rain showers” inside the cabin. - Radio Trickery:
The original radio faceplate flips down to reveal… a useless storage cubby (Japan’s 1991 emissions laws killed the planned cigarette lighter). - Key Drama:
Losing your Figaro key means a £400+ replacement—the chipped transponder is near-impossible to clone.
3. The Underground Figaro Mod ding Scene
- Engine Swaps:
Crazy builds include: - SR20DET (200+ HP—terrifying in an 810kg car).
- Electric conversions (popular in Norway, using Tesla modules).
- “Widebody” Kits:
A niche trend in Japan—stretched fenders and 13×8″ wheels (the stock tires are comically skinny at 155/65R14). - Fake Fig AROS:
Scammers glue Micra badges onto Fig AROS and sell them as “ultra-rare factory prototypes.”
4. Living With a Figaro: The Good, Bad, and Ugly
Pros:
- Parking Superpowers: 3.74m long—fits in motorcycle spots.
- Instant Celebrity: Strangers will photograph you at red lights.
- 90s Time Capsule: Smells like crayons (thanks to biodegradable wiring insulation).
Cons:
- “Turbo Lag from Hell”: 0-60 mph in 12 seconds… if the turbo feels like it.
- Parts Hunger Games: Simple items (e.g., door handles) require scavenging Yahoo Japan Auctions.
- Backseat? LOL: The rear “seats” are strictly for handbags or very small dogs.
5. The 2025 Remastered: Worth £60K?
- Controversy: Purists hate the modern infotainment (“ruins the vibe”), but luxury buyers adore the heated Italian leather seats.
- Hidden Easter Egg: The glovebox contains a replica 1991 lottery ticket—the nod to its sales history.
6. How to Spot a Fake Figaro
- Check the VIN: Authentic Fig AROS start with K10 (shared with Micra).
- “Turbo” Badge: Only on genuine models (fakes often omit it).
- Factory Stickers: Look for the “Pike Factory” decal under the hood (Nissan’s special projects division).
7. The Ultimate Figaro Test
Try this OWNER’S RITE OF PASSAGE:
- Fold the roof while driving (illegal, but everyone does it).
- Overload the trunk with groceries (it’s only 90L—good luck).
- Parallel park in a space shorter than the car.
The Secret Pike Factory Codes
Every Figaro’s chassis number hides a message:
- K10 = Micra base
- FG = “Figaro Generation”
- 00001-20000 = Production sequence (but #20000 was kept by Nissan)
- Hidden in the trunk: A metal plate with the exact production date handwritten in 1990s Nissan engineer shorthand
2. The “Cursed” Figaro Colors
- #15 Lapis Grey: Rarest color (only 2,000 made) but statistically most likely to have electrical gremlins
- Topaz Mist Green: Nicknamed “Mold Green” by mechanics because it shows water damage instantly
- Pale Aqua: The only color never offered with the rare dealer-option white leather interior
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