1991 Nissan Figaro

Description

The British magazine Autocar said of the Nissan Figaro, “It seemed old when it was new.” The shape that Naoki Sakai and Shoji Takahashi penned drew inspiration from automobiles of the 1930s and ’50s, yet underneath the Figaro is a very modern, powered by a turbocharged 987cc four-cylinder engine producing a stirring 76 horsepower in the tiny four-seater. The retro-themed interior is surprisingly lush, with white leather seating, air conditioning, and factory AM/FM/CD/Cassette sound. Then there is the sliding fabric top for open-air enjoyment.  

The Figaro was the last vehicle from Nissan’s famed special projects group, the Pike Factory, and was available in colors of gemstones that represent the four seasons: Lapis Grey for winter, Emerald Green for spring, Pale Aqua for summer, and Topaz Mist for autumn. Though designed for the unique needs of the right-hand drive Japanese market, a number were sold in England, including one to guitar legend Eric Clapton. This Figaro was imported to the U.S. in February 2024, repainted its original Topaz Mist, refurbished with tasteful upgrades, and currently shows 61,990 kilometers (38,518 miles).  

Highlights 

• Right-hand drive Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicle 

• Turbocharged 987cc “MA10ET” inline four-cylinder engine 

• Three-speed automatic transmission 

• Topaz Mist (7K1) paint 

• White (WK3) roof, mirror backs, and wheel polo trim 

• White leather interior with Topaz Mist highlights 

• Factory air conditioning 

• Retracting fabric top 

Features 

• Recent refurbishment and updates include: 

  • Repainted in original “Topaz Mist” 

  • New chrome trim 

  • Custom stereo and speakers 

  • New leather seats and dash pad 

  • New convertible top and rear window frame 

  • New Interstate battery 

• 76 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm 

• 78 lb-ft torque @ 4,400 rpm 

• 165/70 R12 77H tires  

• 2+2 seating and center console with storage 

• All Figaros were built right-hand drive 

• The name pays homage to Mozart’s opera “The Marriage of Figaro” 

Known Imperfections  

• Seat belt warning buzzer needs troubleshooting 

Included 

• Original Clarion CD/cassette stereo 

• Unused custom fit car cover 

Ownership History 

This 1991 Nissan Figaro was imported to the U.S. in February 2024. The consignor reports, “All work performed in the U.S. from March through September 2024. The vehicle was completely repainted and re-chromed in May (note: there was no body damage involved; only repainting and re-chroming). The soft convertible top and rear window frame were replaced in August. The creme leather seats and dash were replaced in September. The leather steering wheel cover was installed in October. A powerful Bluetooth stereo was installed with wide screen, back-up camera, hands-free phone, Sirius satellite radio, and USB mini inputs. The stereo is connected to a high-powered amplifier and sub-woofer speaker with additional volume control. The speaker and amplifier are mounted out of sight under front seats. Another variance from stock is the addition of twin mid-range speakers in the rear seating area. The installation looks stock due to a custom template panel hiding installation of the speakers in the head space. Also included are the lower rear compartment removable large storage tray covering the spare tire, a passenger well map shelf netting, and an unused custom fit car cover. The windows were tinted and an alarm installed. It was entered in its first large classic car show in October and won a plaque indicating second-place finish.”