N12 Series III

Since the Pulsar-based Holden LB Astra hatchback, launched simultaneously, looked almost identical to its donor car, Nissan implemented a surprisingly successful mid-term facelift that also clearly distinguished the Series III from its predecessor.

The sleeker four-headlight nose and horizontal tail-light treatment were the biggest giveaways.

More standard equipment, minor suspension calibration modifications and revised cabin trim helped kick sales along.

The Pulsar sedan had to wait until November for the changes. Oddly though, the ET turbo hatch continued with the old nose and tail treatment through to its demise in July ’87.