NISSAN NEWS
NISSAN MOTOR CO LTD
International Corporate Communication Dept
17-L Ginza 6-Chome, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-23, Japan
TEL: (03) 5565-2146 – FAX: (03) 5-16-2569
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February 14, 1991
Nissan Announces Domestic Release of All-New Figaro
TOKYO – Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. Today launched limited domestic sales of the all-new Figaro, a compact coupe that follows the successful Be-1 and PAO niche cars. The Figaro reproduces as faithfully as possible the concept car unveiled under the same nameplate at the 28th Tokyo Motor Show in 1989. The sales volume of the Figaro will be limited to 20,000 units.

The Figaro was developed around the concept of creating a distinctive, personalised coupe that would allow owners to enjoy a delicate feeling of stylish elegance in everyday life. In commercialising the concept vehicle Nissan has given the Figaro a unique design that conveys a sense of spiritual satisfaction and a full complement of equipment and appointments intended to satisfy a zestful desire for a good time. In addition, careful attention has been paid to enhancing the quality and safety features of the car, resulting in an eminently refined product.

The limited sales volume is to be divided into three allotments in order to shorten the delivery period and give customers a more precise delivery date. Under the limited sales plan, a lottery will be held in the event the number of orders exceeds the planned sales volume of a particular allotment.

(1) Exterior

The overall body form is composed of large curved surfaces and natural lines. High-quality chrome plating is used effectively on the bumper, side sill mouldings and other body trim parts to create a unique design. To bring out an atmosphere of light hearted elegance, the entire car is painted in a solid two-tone colour scheme that accentuates the beauty of the body surfaces.

The Figaro is built with a sliding soft top that opens wide to allow occupants to enjoy the exhilarating pleasure of open-air motoring while travelling in elegant style. Leaving the rear pillars and side roof rails in place, the top folds neatly into the trunk so as not to detract from the distinctive body styling.

The front fenders and apron adopt plastic flex panels made of a modified polyamide-polyphenylene oxide (PPO) alloy resin. Compared with conventional steel panels, Flex Panels are lighter in weight, more resistant to corrosion and can easily be restored to their original shape following a light impact. Moreover, since flex panels are made of a thermoplastic resin, they are also capable of being recycled.

The entire body is painted with a fluororesin paint that provides superior water repellency and also maintains its new-car luster over a much longer period than ordinary paint.


(2) Interior

The interior is rendered in rounded surfaces throughout to match the gentle curves of the exterior design and is intended to give the occupants a feeling of enhanced pleasure and comfort.

Front and back seats are covered with authentic white leather. Providing the appearance and tactile sensation that only natural materials impart, the leather seats project a friendly, inviting image with a touch of chic refinement.

Meticulous care has been taken to create an interior design that overflows with originality. For instance, a special paint is applied to the dashboard to enhance the feeling of softness. Control switches convey the impression of being decorative accessories, as they are formed of gently curved lines and features as their motif the unique Figaro mark which is suggestive of a flower bud.

(3) Mechanicals

Powering the Figaro is the compact, lightweight MA10ET engine, a 1litre turbocharged unit that provides outstanding fuel economy and quietness. To ensure pleasant, comfortable driving and ease of operation, the Figaro is available only with a 3-speed automatic transmission. The chassis system consists of McPherson struts at the front and a four-link-type coil spring suspension at the rear. A rack and pinion power steering system is employed to allow easy manoeuvring at low speeds or when parking.


(4) Safety Enhancements

A host of advanced features are incorporated in the Figaro to ensure a high level of safety. These enhancements include side door beams, three-point seat belts for all occupants, high-mounted stop lamps, flame-resistant interior materials, a body construction with high strength and rigidity and a special system to prevent misoperation of the soft top.

(5) Price and sales method

The Figaro is priced at 1,870,000 yen. Details regarding the three allotments of the limited sales volume, ordering periods and lottery result announcements are as follows:

Ordering Period Lottery Result Sales
Announcement Volume

1st allotment Feb.14 – March 14 April 6 8,000

2nd allotment March 15 – June 16 June 29 6,000

3rd Allotment June 17 – Aug. 31 Sept. 14 6,000

Specification

Figaro

Overall length (mm) 3,740
Overall width (mm) 1,630
Overall height (mm) 1,365
Wheelbase (mm) 2,300
Tread: front (mm) 1,350
rear (mm) 1,335
Ground clearance (mm) 150
Curb weight (kg) 810
Turning radius (m) 4.7
Steering Rack and pinion
with power assistance
Suspension: front Independent struts, rear 4 link coil springs
Brakes: front Ventilated discs, rear Drums
Tires: front 165/70R12 77H, rear 165/70R12 77H

Engine

Type MA10ET
OHC, in-line 4-cylinder, turbo charger
Displacement (cc) 987
Bore x stroke (mm) 68.0 x 68.0
Max. power (PS/rpm) 76/6,000
Max. torque (kgm/rpm) 10.8/4. 400
Induction EGI (ECCS)