1987 Nissan EXA review from Australia and New Zealand

Power steering rack needed to be reconditioned this year (2005) but after 18 years can't really complain. $310.

Master brake cylinder also needed to be reconditioned this year, but once again can't complain and probably could have lasted another year. $180.

The seals around the passenger door leak occasionally typically during heavy rain. Not worth replacing as fairly costly. Just use a car tarp to stop the possibility of seats/carpets moudling and smelling.

Gas struts needed to be replaced a few years back. Normal in any old car. $250.

Speaker system degraded with age. I think most people change speakers on older model cars anyway so I don't think this is an issue.

Only a tiny spot of rust on the boot panel near the window. Not worth worrying about as this is the only place.

Certainly turns heads. Big attention grabber.

Excellent handling. Put some michillens on the front and you can take turns like anything.

Pop-up lights. Gives a bit of character.

It's a TARGA top. Nothing better then taking the roof off on a hot day and feeling the wind in your hair.

The hatch can also be taken off if you want more than just the targa off.

A softback and sportsback are accessories for the EXA that can be purchased. Sportsback is a very unique look. Softback is great during summer if you want the hatch off, but want something to clip on easily when parked.

Mine has extractors and exhaust system so it sounds like a real beast.

Pretty decent power. Can take the revs fairly high and push it if needed, but compared to my old car it flies.

If your planning on putting in a system especially subs, you'll have to plan carefully as your targa tops storage area is in the boot area itself under the carpet. Still plausible though, I've just hooked mine up so its got a handle thing on top and the wires can connect on and off easily so you can lift it up to get the targa area (takes any extra 5 minutes to store your targa, but for the sound its worth it)

Majority of EXA's are manual unless it's an import. I actually converted mine to an automatic (2nd auto in Aus so very very rare)

Genuine Nissan Exa parts are extremely difficult to locate second hand and brand new does cost a fair bit (I replaced 12 engine hoses, genuine, for $1300. You won't have to do this aslong as you put water in the car and don't burn the engine). However, one thing you can be gauranteed on is that if something does wreck and you pay genuine to fix it, its NISSAN. You won't have to take it back for the same thing for another 20 or so years. They're products are reliable and worth the money.

It is a tiny car. Don't expect to fit your family (or large friends) in because the back seat is quite squishy.

I'm expecting my baby to last many many more years are its still driving wonderfully.

I'm actually not planning on ever selling her. Once I decide to upgrade to a family car she's going to sit in the garage and be passed down to the kids as she is quite a beauty.

Look after her and she'll look after you.