1987 Nissan Pulsar NX: Discover a Rare Gem in the Junkyard

1987 Nissan Pulsar NX: Discover a Rare Gem in the Junkyard

The 1987 Nissan Pulsar NX is a true hidden gem that can be found in junkyards across America. This unique car first made its appearance in the United States as the 1979 Datsun 310. However, it returned four years later in hatchback and coupe form, captivating car enthusiasts with its sleek design and impressive features.

Although the Pulsar hatchbacks were dropped from the U.S. market in 1984, the Pulsar NX remained, also known as the Nissan EXA in Japan. For the 1987 model year, the N13 Pulsar arrived in American Nissan dealerships, and it quickly gained a reputation as a fascinating little car.

One of the standout features of the 1987-1990 Pulsar NX was the swappable rear body attachments. This particular car we found in a Denver-area junkyard has the coupe attachment, but it also came with a wagon-shaped “Sportbak” attachment. For those looking for a more open-air experience, you could even remove the attachment completely, giving you a quasi-convertible feel. This was especially fun when paired with the T-top roof panels.

Back in 1987, the base model Pulsar NX with an automatic transmission had an MSRP of $11,059. Adjusted for inflation to 2024 dollars, that would be approximately $30,673. While it may have been considered affordable at the time, this little car packed quite a punch.

Under the hood of the Pulsar NX is a fuel-injected version of the 1.6-liter SOHC straight-four engine found in the base ’87 Sentra. With a rating of 70 horsepower and 94 pound-feet of torque, this car may not have been a speed demon, but it certainly held its own.

Interestingly, this particular Pulsar NX was originally sold as a California-market car, not the federal “49-state” version. Additionally, it came equipped with factory air conditioning, which was a $715 option back in the day. The Fujitsu TEN AM/FM/cassette radio seen in the car appears to be either aftermarket or swapped from a different vehicle. Regardless, it would have been perfect for enjoying the unforgettable popular music of the era.

Driving the Pulsar NX with its 70 horsepower and four-speed automatic transmission would have required some patience from the driver. However, this car’s unique design and features more than made up for any lack of power. The sporty FPS aluminum wheels found on this Pulsar NX were a tempting purchase for the writer, who considered them for their Subaru Sambar kei van. Unfortunately, they were in rough condition and had to be left behind.

The taillight treatment on the Pulsar NX was so cool that it soon became a trend, with people copying it using paint or tape on their own vehicles. This attention to detail carries over into the interior, with the speaker grilles featuring the same pattern.

Eventually, the Pulsar NX was replaced in the United States by the 1991-1993 Nissan NX1600 and NX2000. However, for those fortunate enough to stumble upon a well-preserved Pulsar NX in a junkyard, it truly is a rare find.

In conclusion, the 1987 Nissan Pulsar NX is a unique and captivating car that stands out even in a junkyard setting. With its swappable rear body attachments, affordable price tag, and distinctive design elements, it’s no wonder that this little gem has gained a dedicated following among car enthusiasts. So next time you find yourself at a junkyard, keep an eye out for the 1987 Nissan Pulsar NX, a true hidden treasure.