1990 Nissan Pulsar GTi-R from UK and Ireland - Comments

Radiator burst.

Plugs needed changing.

Filler cap release mechanism faulty, big end bearings collapsed (bottom end rebuild required - £2000)

Oil pump died.

Wheel bearing collapsed.

Nice car to drive, very quick, comfortable and fun.

Engine stressed even at standard level of boost, no bottom end strengthening over a normal GTI.

DO NOT chip this car, it won't last, no matter what any tuner tells you.

Made before 2.0 litre turbo engines got reliable (Subaru).

Rubbish, these cars are strong. I have seen many upgraded, some to 350bhp and be fine at track days too. You just need to know what you are doing and upgrade the right parts together.

I've got mine running 311bhp @ 7000rpm, needed a bigger fuel pump and motec fuel controller. Also 550cc injectors, front mounted racing intercooler, and the only thing that doesn't last on it is the clutch. Mind you, that has a lot to do with the way I drive, I've blown 2 Nismo clutch plates, they aren't cheap either $3,000NZ.

When I get my new turbo I'll be hitting the 400bhp barrier.

I totally agree, I have replaced the intercooler, computer, exhaust system, suspension and filter with mostly after-market items (primarily Trust) with a few custom mods (cold air box and high flow turbo), on a dyno it puts out 263.8kw on 98 octane (which is the highest rating in NZ).

The only thing I had to replace due to wear and tear were the tyres, and suspension (although this was mainly due to the new rims).

The best ride you can get for your money. How cheap are your Lancer GSRs?

Well, I am an automotive engineer, time served with Audi, so I think that qualifies me to comment on the mechanics of this car. I bought one of these little pocket rockets for a track day blaster, and its good cheap fast fun. I have rebuilt my engine from the bottom up after a similar big end collapse as the person writing the review has stated. I would agree in saying that the bottom end is FAR from up to spec for the horsepower output of this engine. I have been in touch with many owners of the car, and I must say most have had mechanical problems also, ranging from rear diffs to big end failure.

This car had very limited success in rally's, due to overheating engines (intercooler location).

Good car, not bullet proof by any stretch.

Have a good laugh with mine!

The Nissan Pulsar is a sic car and it's run fine for me.

It's very quick and nippy, you can plant your foot at 100k's in 5th gear and it still accelerates quick.

I disagree. The SR20DET engine found in the GTiR is notoriously strong! It is also found in the 200SX. I also disagree with the statement that during their WRC campaign, they overheated due to inter cooler location. RUBBISH. The world famous WRX also used top mounted air to air units, as did Mazda Familia GTRs.

True, they can be unreliable if not looked after, but most will take the power increase with no problems. It was almost the same engine as the 200 S14 but with slightly more power and uprated internals to take the extra abuse and stress from the four wheel drive.

SR20DETs are way more reliable than EJ20Ts. Subaru's are crap.

Don't be daft subaru are one of the most reliable makes, and the EJ20T is a great engine. Can you think af something a little more intelligent to say?

They're built a lot better that Poobarus.