If you’re exploring classic Japanese cars or tracking down a specific vintage Nissan for restoration or comparison, 1983 offers a diverse lineup across markets and body styles. Knowing what each model was called regionally and which engines were offered helps narrow searches and source parts.
There are 22 1983 Nissan Car Models, ranging from Datsun 200SX to Nissan Vanette (C120). For each model, details are organized by Body type,Market(s),Years & engines — you’ll find below.
Are parts and service for these 1983 Nissan models still obtainable?
Yes — many common components (brake parts, suspension bushings, filters) are available through aftermarket suppliers and specialty shops; harder-to-find items can turn up via salvage yards, enthusiast forums, and parts brokers. Availability varies by model and region, so confirm compatibility using engine and chassis codes listed below.
How can I confirm which 1983 Nissan model and engine I have?
Check the VIN/serial plate, engine stamping, and factory badges; regional names often differed (Datsun vs. Nissan). Use the table below showing Body type,Market(s),Years & engines to match codes and visual cues, or compare photos and specs from the corresponding row you’ll find below.
1983 Nissan Car Models
| Model | Body type | Market(s) | Years & engines |
|---|---|---|---|
| Datsun 280ZX | Coupe, T-top | US, Europe, Australia, Japan (as Fairlady Z) | 1978–1983; 2,753 cc L28E/ET I6 |
| Nissan 300ZX | Coupe, T-top | US, Japan (as Fairlady Z), Europe | 1983–1989; 2,960 cc VG30E/ET V6 |
| Datsun/Nissan Sentra | Sedan, coupe, hatchback, wagon | US, Canada, Japan (as Sunny) | 1982–1986; 1,488 cc E15 I4 |
| Datsun/Nissan Maxima | Sedan, wagon | US, Canada, Japan (as Bluebird 910) | 1981–1984; 2,393 cc L24E I6, 2,800 cc diesel |
| Datsun 200SX | Coupe, hatchback | US, Canada, Japan (as Silvia S110) | 1979–1983; 2,188 cc Z22E I4 |
| Nissan Stanza | Sedan, hatchback | US, Europe, Japan (as Auster/Violet) | 1981–1986; 1,974 cc CA20S I4 |
| Datsun/Nissan 720 Truck | Truck | US, Japan, Australia, worldwide | 1980–1986; 2,389 cc Z24 I4, 2,209 cc diesel |
| Nissan Skyline (R30) | Sedan, coupe, hatchback, wagon | Japan, Australia, Europe, South Africa | 1981–1985; 1,991 cc FJ20ET turbo I4, 2.8L diesel |
| Nissan Silvia / Gazelle (S12) | Coupe, hatchback | Japan, Europe, Australia, US (as 200SX) | 1983–1989; 1,809 cc CA18ET turbo I4, 1,991 cc FJ20ET |
| Nissan Pulsar / Datsun Cherry | Hatchback, sedan | Japan, Europe, Australia | 1982–1986; 1,270 cc E13 I4, 1,488 cc E15ET turbo |
| Nissan Pulsar EXA / NX | Coupe | Japan, US, Australia | 1982–1986; 1,488 cc E15ET turbo I4 |
| Datsun Bluebird (910) | Sedan, hardtop, wagon | Japan, Europe, Australia | 1979–1984; 1,770 cc Z18ET turbo I4, 1,952 cc L20B |
| Nissan Bluebird (U11) | Sedan, hardtop, wagon | Japan, Europe, Asia | 1983–1990; 1,809 cc CA18ET turbo I4, 1,974 cc CA20S |
| Nissan Laurel (C31) | Sedan, hardtop coupe | Japan, Europe, Middle East | 1980–1984; 1,998 cc L20ET turbo I6, 2,800 cc diesel |
| Nissan March / Micra (K10) | Hatchback | Japan, Europe | 1982–1992; 987 cc MA10S I4 |
| Nissan Cedric / Gloria (430) | Sedan, hardtop, wagon | Japan, Asia, Europe | 1979–1983; 2,753 cc L28E I6, 1,998 cc L20ET turbo |
| Nissan Cedric / Gloria (Y30) | Sedan, hardtop, wagon | Japan, Asia, Europe | 1983–1987; 2,960 cc VG30E/ET V6 |
| Nissan Patrol (160) | SUV (SWB/LWB), pickup | Australia, Europe, Middle East, Japan | 1980–1989; 3,956 cc P40 I6, 3,246 cc SD33 diesel |
| Nissan Urvan / Caravan (E23) | Van, minibus | Japan, Europe, Australia, Asia | 1980–1986; 1,952 cc H20 I4, 2,289 cc SD23 diesel |
| Nissan Vanette (C120) | Van, minibus, truck | Japan, Europe, Asia | 1978–1988; 1,487 cc A15 I4 |
| Nissan President (H250) | Sedan | Japan | 1973–1990; 4,414 cc Y44E V8 |
| Nissan AD Van | Wagon (commercial) | Japan | 1982-1990; 1,488 cc E15S I4 |
Images and Descriptions
Datsun 280ZX
The final year for the iconic S130 Z-car. The 280ZX blended performance with grand-touring luxury. The Turbo model was particularly sought after, marking a high point for the Datsun brand before the name change to Nissan.
Nissan 300ZX
Launched in late 1983 for the ’84 model year, the all-new Z31 300ZX introduced Nissan’s first mass-produced V6 engine. It featured a futuristic, wedge-shaped design with pop-up headlights, representing a major leap from the 280ZX.
Datsun/Nissan Sentra
A successful front-wheel-drive subcompact that replaced the Datsun 210. The B11 Sentra was praised for its exceptional fuel economy and practicality, becoming one of Nissan’s best-selling models globally during the 1980s fuel crises.
Datsun/Nissan Maxima
Originally the Datsun 810 Maxima, this rear-wheel-drive sedan was a premium model known for its smooth inline-six engine. For 1983, it solidified the Maxima name, paving the way for its “four-door sports car” future.
Datsun 200SX
The final model year for the S110 generation 200SX in North America. Based on the Japanese Silvia, it was a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe known for its sharp styling, though its truck-derived engines were seen as less refined.
Nissan Stanza
Nissan’s mid-size front-wheel-drive offering, positioned between the Sentra and Maxima in the US. The Stanza offered more interior room than its smaller siblings and was known for its smooth ride and reliable CA-series engine.
Datsun/Nissan 720 Truck
A rugged and immensely popular compact pickup. The 720 was known for its durability and was available in various configurations, including 4×4 and King Cab models. It was a best-seller for Nissan in the critical North American market.
Nissan Skyline (R30)
The famous “Newman Skyline” was in its prime. In 1983, the facelifted RS/RS-X “Tekkamen” (Iron Mask) model debuted, featuring the potent 4-valve DOHC FJ20ET engine, a true Japanese performance icon.
Nissan Silvia / Gazelle (S12)
Launched in August 1983, the new S12 Silvia brought 80s pop-up headlights and potent turbo engines, including the legendary FJ20ET in the RS-X model. This generation set the stage for the Silvia’s future drifting fame.
Nissan Pulsar / Datsun Cherry
The N12 generation was a modern front-wheel-drive compact, sold as the Pulsar in Japan and Cherry in Europe. It offered a range of body styles and a sporty turbocharged engine, showcasing Nissan’s global platform strategy.
Nissan Pulsar EXA / NX
The sporty coupe variant of the Pulsar, featuring a distinctive wedge shape and often a turbocharged engine. Known as the Pulsar NX in the US, it was a fun and affordable coupe that appealed to younger buyers.
Datsun Bluebird (910)
The final years of the beloved rear-wheel-drive 910 Bluebird. Praised for its crisp, modern styling and solid engineering, the SSS models offered a sporty driving experience. It was a massive international success for Nissan/Datsun.
Nissan Bluebird (U11)
Launched in late 1983, the U11 marked the Bluebird’s significant switch to a front-wheel-drive layout. It offered a modern, aerodynamic design and a range of fuel-injected and turbocharged engines, including a V6 in later Maxima-badged versions.
Nissan Laurel (C31)
A rear-wheel-drive executive car, sharing its platform with the R30 Skyline. The Laurel offered a more luxurious and formal experience, with smooth inline-six engines and high levels of equipment for its time, especially in the Japanese market.
Nissan March / Micra (K10)
Introduced in late 1982, the K10 March was Nissan’s answer to the supermini craze. It was a simple, efficient, and well-built city car that quickly gained popularity as the Micra in Europe for its reliability and ease of driving.
Nissan Cedric / Gloria (430)
The 430 series concluded its run in mid-1983. This generation was notable for introducing a turbocharged gasoline engine to the Japanese luxury market. It was a formal, conservative sedan that was a popular choice for taxis and fleet use.
Nissan Cedric / Gloria (Y30)
Debuting in June 1983, the Y30 was a landmark vehicle, introducing Japan’s first mass-produced V6 engine (the VG series). It offered a more modern, angular design and advanced electronics, setting the tone for Japanese luxury in the mid-80s.
Nissan Patrol (160)
A tough-as-nails off-road vehicle and a direct competitor to the Toyota Land Cruiser. The 160-series was valued for its strong chassis, powerful engines, and go-anywhere capability in the world’s harshest environments.
Nissan Urvan / Caravan (E23)
Nissan’s versatile one-box van, used for cargo transport and luxury people-moving (in SGL trim). The E23 was a common sight across Asia and Australia, known for its space, reliability, and distinctive twin-headlight front end.
Nissan Vanette (C120)
A compact cabover van that was a popular commercial vehicle and family transporter. Its clever space utilization made it a favorite in crowded Japanese cities and export markets, often seen as a small business workhorse or a quirky minivan.
Nissan President (H250)
Nissan’s top-of-the-line limousine, designed for government officials and corporate executives in Japan. The long-running 250-series remained a symbol of ultimate Japanese automotive luxury in 1983, powered by a massive V8 engine.
Nissan AD Van
A dedicated commercial station wagon based on the B11 Sunny/Sentra platform. The AD Van was a no-frills workhorse designed for deliveries and tradespeople in Japan, prized for its low running costs and reliability.
