A Brief Look at the Nissan Stanza
The Nissan Stanza: A Legacy of Innovation
The Nissan Stanza has been a fixture in the automotive industry for over four decades. This compact car has undergone various transformations over the years to emerge as a reliable, efficient, and affordable family sedan. Here’s a detailed look at the history and evolution of the Nissan Stanza through the years:
The First Generation (1977-1981)
The first-generation (T11-USA) of the Nissan Stanza was introduced in 1977 to fill the gap between the Nissan Sunny and the Nissan Bluebird. This vehicle was initially targeted towards the Japanese market, but soon expanded to North America and Europe. The first-generation Stanza came with a 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine, capable of producing 76 horsepower.
In 1979, Nissan introduced a wagon version of the Stanza, making it more spacious and versatile. The first-generation Stanza also saw the introduction of the four-wheel independent suspension, a major upgrade from the traditional semi-trailing arm rear suspension.
The Second Generation (1981-1986)
The second-generation (T11-USA) of the Nissan Stanza was introduced in 1981, with a more aerodynamic design, rounder edges, and a sloping hood. The second-generation Stanza came with a 1.6-liter engine, with a 5-speed manual or a 3-speed automatic transmission.
In 1982, Nissan introduced a four-wheel drive (4WD) version of the Stanza, which made it more capable of tackling off-road terrains. The second-generation Stanza also saw the introduction of a luxury version, the Nissan Stanza Altima, which featured a digital instrument panel, premium sound system, and power-adjustable driver’s seat.
The Third Generation (1986-1990)
The third-generation (U12) of the Nissan Stanza was introduced in 1986, with a more modern and aerodynamic design, a longer wheelbase, and a shorter front overhang. The third-generation Stanza came with a 2.0-liter engine, capable of producing 110 horsepower.
In 1988, Nissan introduced the Stanza Wagon, which was based on the third-generation Stanza, featuring a spacious cabin, flexible cargo space, and a variety of features.
The Fourth Generation (1990-1992)
The fourth-generation (U13) of the Nissan Stanza was introduced in 1990, with a design inspired by the North American market. The fourth-generation Stanza came with a 2.4-liter engine, capable of producing 150 horsepower, and a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
In 1992, Nissan introduced the Nissan Altima, which was based on the fourth-generation Stanza, featuring a more upscale design, better aerodynamics, and improved performance.
The Fifth Generation (1992-1996)
The fifth-generation (U13) of the Nissan Stanza was introduced in 1992, with a sportier design, a more powerful engine, and improved safety features. The fifth-generation Stanza came with a 2.4-liter engine, capable of producing 155 horsepower, and a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
In 1993, Nissan introduced the Altima GXE, which was based on the fifth-generation Stanza, featuring a more luxurious and refined interior, and a variety of features such as power windows and locks, air conditioning, and cruise control.
The Sixth Generation (1996-2001)
The sixth-generation (L30) of the Nissan Stanza was introduced in 1996, with a more refined, spacious, and comfortable design. The sixth-generation Stanza came with a 2.4-liter engine, capable of producing 150 horsepower, and a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
In 1998, Nissan introduced the Altima SE, which was based on the sixth-generation Stanza, featuring a more aggressive stance, sport-tuned suspension, and a more powerful engine capable of producing 168 horsepower.
The Seventh Generation (2001-2006)
The seventh-generation (L31) of the Nissan Stanza was introduced in 2001, with a more sophisticated and elegant design, improved handling, and a range of advanced safety features. The seventh-generation Stanza came with a 2.5-liter engine, capable of producing 175 horsepower, and a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
In 2002, Nissan introduced the Altima SE-R, which was based on the seventh-generation Stanza, featuring a more potent engine capable of producing 260 horsepower, sport-tuned suspension, and a unique interior and exterior styling.
The Eighth Generation (2006-2012)
The eighth-generation (L32) of the Nissan Stanza was introduced in 2006, with a more refined and mature design, improved fuel efficiency, and a range of advanced features such as satellite navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and keyless entry.
The eighth-generation Stanza came with a 2.5-liter engine, capable of producing 175 horsepower, and a 6-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
The Ninth Generation (2013-Present)
The ninth-generation (L33) of the Nissan Stanza was introduced in 2013, with a more athletic and dynamic design, improved handling, and a range of advanced features such as NissanConnect, a 7-inch touchscreen display, and a rearview camera.
The ninth-generation Stanza comes with a 2.5-liter engine, capable of producing 182 horsepower, and a CVT, or a 3.5-liter V6 engine, capable of producing 270 horsepower, and mated to a CVT.
The Nissan Stanza has come a long way since its inception in 1977. With each passing generation, the Stanza has evolved to become more reliable, efficient, and sophisticated, while remaining affordable and practical. Whether you’re a fan of the classic design or the modern styling, the Nissan Stanza is a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and excellence.