N13

Bigger, roomier, stronger, more durable and much better to drive, the all-new third generation N13 series Pulsar and its Holden LD series Astra twin were a big step forward.

This time Holden helped Nissan Australia to improve the basic Japanese design, which included providing much of the drivetrain and some development assistance.

Holden’s locally-built 56kW 1.6 and 79kW 1.8 four-cylinder fuel-injected Family II engines meant performance in all versions was brisk.

As before, a five-speed manual was standard while a three-speed auto was optional.

The hatchback model range ascended from the GL and GX 1.6 to the sporty new Q and luxury GXE 1.8, while the sedan, which arrived in October ’87 and was now known as the Pulsar Vector, was initially released in 1.8 GX and GXE guises.

The luxury 1.8 Ti and sporty SSS models debuted in early ’88, trailed soon after by the unique Vector Viscous LSD.

Nissan built 250 of these sport/luxury flagships, which boasted slightly more power (84kW from the 1.8) and the Viscous LSD device that subtly improved the car’s handling, steering and road grip.