The Retro Charm of the Nissan Figaro: A Modern Classic

In the automotive world, certain vehicles transcend beyond just modes of transportation to become cultural icons. The Nissan Figaro is one such car that has achieved a cult-like status among enthusiasts and collectors. This quirky little two-door convertible, produced for just one model year in 1991, has captured the hearts of many with its retro styling, playful spirit, and undeniable charm. Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Nissan Figaro such a beloved modern classic.

Retro Styling Done Right

At first glance, the Figaro’s design is an unabashed throwback to the classic cars of the 1960s. Its curvaceous lines, round headlights, and upright grille immediately evoke memories of British roadsters from that era. However, Nissan’s designers managed to reinterpret those vintage cues in a way that felt fresh and contemporary, rather than simply derivative.

The Figaro’s proportions are just about perfect, with a long hood, short rear deck, and an overall compact footprint that makes it look nimble and tossable. The paint colors available were also a nod to the 1960s, with four pastel shades reminiscent of an era when vehicles were more expressive and fun: Topaz Mist, Emerald Green, Pale Aqua, and Lido Blue.

Perhaps Figaro’s most distinctive design element is its turbine-inspired wheel covers that give the impression of a mini-sports car from the swinging sixties. Combined with whitewall tires, these wheel covers are simply iconic and instantly recognizable.

Step inside, and the retro vibes continue with a cozy cabin that feels straight out of the past. The cream-colored interior contrasts beautifully with the exterior pastels, while details like the old-school steering wheel and push-pull vent controls add to the vintage flair. Despite its diminutive size, the Figaro can comfortably seat four adults, making it a surprisingly practical little runabout.

A Driving Experience Packed with Character  

While the Figaro may look like a classic from the outside, underneath that retro skin beats a modern and reliable heart. It’s built on the proven underpinnings of the humble Nissan Micra city car of the era, powered by a perky 1.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

With just 75 horsepower on tap, the Figaro was never intended to be a performance machine. However, that free-revving turbo engine gives it a surprising turn of speed and makes it an absolute hoot to drive around town or on tight, winding roads where its compact dimensions really shine.

The slick-shifting five-speed manual transmission is an absolute delight to row through the gears, encouraging you to stay in the power band and keep that little turbo spooled up. Thanks to relatively low gearing, solid mid-range torque, and a featherweight curb weight, the Figaro actually feels quite zippy during everyday driving.

Of course, outright acceleration won’t blow your socks off, but that’s not what this car is about. The Figaro’s true charm lies in its playful dynamics and cheeky personality that just beg you to take the long way home with the top down on a sunny day, savoring every minute behind the wheel.

Handling is predictably nimble and tossable, with accurate steering and a cutsie demeanor that’s more fun than outright sporty. The ride is on the firm side but never punishingly harsh, striking a nice balance as an upscale city car with some sporting intentions.

Rarity and Collectability

While its on-road character is undoubtedly endearing, it’s Figaro’s scarcity that has solidified its place in the automotive pantheon. You see, Nissan originally intended it as a strictly limited production “Pike car” commemorating the company’s 50th anniversary. Only 20,000 units were constructed, with just 8,000 exported beyond Japan.