If you’re exploring cars from the 1990 model year, Nissan’s lineup is a good snapshot of how varied choices were across regions — from sporty coupes to rugged SUVs and practical sedans. A short, organized list makes it easier to spot which models matter for restoration, buying, or simple curiosity.
There are 27 1990 Nissan Car Models, ranging from 180SX to Terrano. For each model you’ll find below Market(s),Body style,Engine options (L, hp) so you can quickly compare where a model was sold, what body type it used, and the engine specs you’ll want to check.
How can I confirm which market a specific 1990 Nissan model was intended for?
Check the VIN and compliance plates (often on the firewall or door jamb) and compare model codes — these indicate destination market and trim. Photos of badges, trim details, and factory option lists also help; cross-reference with period brochures or registry databases when possible.
Were engines and parts commonly shared across different 1990 Nissan models?
Yes, many engines were used in multiple models, but swaps require checking engine codes, mounts, transmission compatibility, and emissions gear. Shared engine families make parts sourcing easier, but verify fitment and electronics before assuming full interchangeability.
1990 Nissan Car Models
| Model | Market(s) | Body style | Engine options (L, hp) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 300ZX | US, Japan, Europe | coupe, convertible | 3.0L V6 (222 hp), 3.0L V6 Twin-Turbo (300 hp) |
| 240SX | US, Canada | coupe, hatchback | 2.4L I4 (140 hp) |
| Silvia | Japan | coupe | 1.8L I4 Turbo (173 hp), 2.0L I4 (138 hp), 2.0L I4 Turbo (202 hp) |
| 180SX | Japan | hatchback | 1.8L I4 Turbo (173 hp), 2.0L I4 Turbo (202 hp) |
| 200SX | Europe | hatchback | 1.8L I4 Turbo (169 hp) |
| Maxima | US, Japan, Europe | sedan | 3.0L V6 (160 hp) |
| Sentra | US, Canada | sedan, coupe, wagon, hatchback | 1.6L I4 (90 hp), 1.6L I4 (110 hp) |
| Sunny | Japan, Europe | sedan, coupe, hatchback, wagon | 1.5L I4 (93 hp), 1.6L I4 (109 hp), 1.8L I4 (138 hp) |
| Stanza | US | sedan | 2.4L I4 (138 hp) |
| Bluebird | Japan, Europe, Australia | sedan, hardtop, hatchback | 1.8L I4 Turbo (173 hp), 2.0L I4 (143 hp), 2.0L I4 Turbo (202 hp) |
| Primera | Japan, Europe | sedan, hatchback | 1.6L I4 (99 hp), 1.8L I4 (108 hp), 2.0L I4 (148 hp) |
| Skyline | Japan | coupe, sedan | 2.0L I6 (153 hp), 2.0L I6 Turbo (212 hp), 2.6L I6 Twin-Turbo (276 hp) |
| Pathfinder | US, Canada | SUV | 2.4L I4 (106 hp), 3.0L V6 (153 hp) |
| Terrano | Japan, Europe, Australia | SUV | 3.0L V6 (153 hp), 2.7L I4 Diesel (99 hp) |
| Hardbody Truck | US, Canada | pickup truck | 2.4L I4 (106 hp), 3.0L V6 (145 hp) |
| Navara | Europe, Australia | pickup truck | 2.4L I4 (106 hp), 2.5L I4 Diesel (80 hp) |
| Patrol | Japan, Europe, Australia | SUV, pickup truck | 4.2L I6 (168 hp), 2.8L I6 Turbo Diesel (114 hp), 4.2L I6 Diesel (123 hp) |
| Pulsar NX | US, Canada | coupe | 1.6L I4 (90 hp), 1.8L I4 (125 hp) |
| Cefiro | Japan | sedan | 2.0L I6 (153 hp), 2.0L I6 Turbo (202 hp), 2.5L I6 (178 hp) |
| Laurel | Japan | sedan, hardtop | 2.0L I6 (123 hp), 2.0L I6 Turbo (202 hp), 2.5L I6 (178 hp) |
| President | Japan | sedan | 4.5L V8 (266 hp) |
| Axxess | US, Canada | van | 2.4L I4 (138 hp) |
| Micra | Europe | hatchback | 1.0L I4 (54 hp), 1.2L I4 (59 hp) |
| Pao | Japan | hatchback | 1.0L I4 (51 hp) |
| S-Cargo | Japan | van | 1.5L I4 (72 hp) |
| Leopard | Japan | coupe | 3.0L V6 (197 hp), 3.0L V6 Turbo (252 hp) |
| Cima | Japan | sedan | 3.0L V6 (197 hp), 3.0L V6 Turbo (252 hp) |
Images and Descriptions
300ZX
The second-generation Z32 was a technological marvel, hailed as a true Japanese supercar. For 1990, it continued to wow with its potent twin-turbo engine, sleek styling, and advanced features like Super HICAS four-wheel steering, defining the era of high-tech sports cars.
240SX
A balanced, rear-wheel-drive sports car that became a drifting legend years later. In 1990, the S13 generation was praised for its sharp handling and affordability, offering enthusiasts a fantastic chassis, though some wished for the turbo engines found in other markets.
Silvia
The Japanese-market cousin of the 240SX, the Silvia S13 offered the powerful turbocharged engines enthusiasts craved. 1990 was a transition year where the new, more potent SR20DET engine began to replace the older CA18DET, cementing its status as a tuner favorite.
180SX
The fastback hatchback companion to the Silvia coupe, featuring iconic pop-up headlights. Like the Silvia, the 180SX began its transition from the CA18DET to the legendary SR20DET engine during 1990, offering a potent, stylish, and highly tunable package.
200SX
Europe’s version of the S13 chassis, sold exclusively as a hatchback with the pop-up headlights. It came standard with the punchy CA18DET turbocharged engine, giving European buyers a powerful and well-balanced sports car that the North American market missed out on.
Maxima
Marketed as the “4-Door Sports Car,” the J30 Maxima blended family sedan practicality with engaging performance from its smooth V6 engine. 1990 models continued to build on this reputation, offering a sporty, well-equipped, and reliable alternative to more expensive European sedans.
Sentra
1990 was a transitional year for the Sentra. The boxy and reliable B12 generation finished its run while the all-new, more modern and rounded B13 generation was introduced late in the year for the ’91 model year, setting the stage for the popular SE-R model.
Sunny
The Sunny name covered a wide range of compact cars globally. In Japan and Europe, 1990 saw the launch of the new B13 (sedan) and N14 (hatchback) generations, which offered more modern styling and the introduction of advanced multi-link suspension systems.
Stanza
A straightforward and reliable mid-size family sedan, the U12 Stanza offered ample interior room and a capable 2.4L engine. While not the most exciting car in Nissan’s lineup, it was a solid, practical choice for buyers seeking comfort and dependability in 1990.
Bluebird
The Bluebird was Nissan’s mid-size mainstay in many global markets. The U12 generation in Japan offered advanced options like the ATTESA all-wheel-drive system and potent SR20DET turbo engines in the SSS model, making it a true performance sedan.
Primera
Launched in 1990, the P10 Primera was a game-changer for Nissan, especially in Europe. It was engineered for superior handling dynamics to compete with European sedans, featuring a sophisticated multi-link front suspension that won it widespread critical acclaim.
Skyline
1990 was the first full year for the legendary R32 Skyline. The range included everything from modest sedans to the “Godzilla” GT-R, whose twin-turbo engine, all-wheel drive, and four-wheel steering system completely dominated motorsport and captured global attention.
Pathfinder
A rugged and popular body-on-frame SUV, the Pathfinder was a key player in the growing sport-utility market. 1990 was a significant year as it saw the introduction of a 4-door version, greatly increasing its practicality and appeal to families.
Terrano
Known as the Pathfinder in North America, the Terrano offered the same tough, off-road capable package to the rest of the world. It was available with a torquey turbodiesel engine option popular in many markets, and the 4-door model arrived in 1990.
Hardbody Truck
Named for its double-walled bed, the Nissan Hardbody was a tough, reliable, and popular compact pickup. 1990 models featured a refreshed dashboard design and continued to offer both 4-cylinder and V6 engines, along with 2WD or 4WD configurations.
Navara
The D21 pickup was sold as the Navara in markets like Australia and Europe. It earned a reputation for being a workhorse, prized for its durability and off-road capability, often equipped with economical and robust diesel engines unavailable in North America.
Patrol
The Y60 Patrol was a legendary, heavy-duty off-road vehicle built to tackle the toughest terrain. Unlike the more comfort-oriented Pathfinder, the Patrol was a larger, more robust machine favored by adventurers and organizations like the UN for its go-anywhere capability.
Pulsar NX
1990 marked the final year for the unique Pulsar NX and its modular “Sportbak” design, which allowed owners to switch between a notchback and a wagon-like canopy. This quirky, fun-to-drive coupe was a final glimpse of 80s automotive creativity before being discontinued.
Cefiro
The A31 Cefiro was a stylish, rear-wheel-drive sedan sharing its platform with the R32 Skyline. In 1990, it was a sophisticated and sporty executive car, praised for its smooth inline-six engines and balanced handling, which later made it a drift icon.
Laurel
A rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan positioned just below the Cedric/Gloria, the C33 Laurel was known for its pillarless hardtop design. It offered a comfortable ride and refined inline-six engines, sharing many mechanical components with its sportier Skyline and Cefiro siblings.
President
The ultimate flagship limousine for the Japanese market, the all-new G50 President was introduced for 1990. Based on the Infiniti Q45, it featured a powerful V8 engine and an opulent interior, designed to chauffeur corporate executives and government officials.
Axxess
Sold for only the 1990 model year in the US, the Axxess was a pioneering compact minivan with sliding rear doors. Despite being practical and available with all-wheel drive, it was overshadowed by more popular competitors and quickly withdrawn from the market.
Micra
Known as the March in Japan, the K10 Micra was a beloved and dependable city car in Europe. It was celebrated for its simplicity, fuel efficiency, and surprising durability. In 1990, it remained a popular choice for budget-conscious drivers seeking a reliable small car.
Pao
One of Nissan’s limited-production “Pike Factory” retro cars, the Pao’s sales period concluded in 1990. Based on the Micra/March, it featured unique, vintage-inspired styling with an external-hinge tailgate and a fun, adventurous character that made it an instant classic.
S-Cargo
Another “Pike Factory” creation, the S-Cargo was a quirky, snail-shaped commercial van whose name is a pun on “escargot.” Production ended in 1990, concluding its run as a charming and highly distinctive vehicle for small businesses in Japan.
Leopard
The F31 Leopard was a luxurious personal coupe, competing with the Toyota Soarer. By 1990, it was nearing the end of its lifecycle but still offered a smooth, powerful rear-wheel-drive experience with sophisticated V6 engine options and plush accommodations.
Cima
A large, luxurious hardtop sedan that sparked a “Cima phenomenon” in Japan upon its debut. In 1990, the Y31 Cima continued to be a status symbol, known for its effortless turbocharged performance, high-end features, and imposing road presence.
