TheNissan Figarois a two-door2+2retro-styledfixed-profile convertible manufactured byNissanfor model year 1991, and originally marketed solely in Japan at theirNissan Cherry Stores.
With its design variously attributed toNaoki Sakai[1]and/or Shoji Takahashi,[2]twenty thousand examples were marketed by Nissan in the convertible's single year of production[3]— all with right hand drive.[4]
Because of its origins at Pike Factory, Nissan's special project group, the Figaro — along with theNissan Pao,Be-1andS-Cargo— are known as Nissan's "Pike cars."
In 2011, noted design critic Phil Patton, writing for the New York Times, called the Pike cars "the height ofpostmodernism"[2]and "unabashedly retro, promiscuously combining elements of theCitroën 2CV,Renault 4, Mini [and]Fiat 500."[2]
The Figaro was introduced at the 1989Tokyo Motor Showunder the slogan"Back to the Future". The name references the title character in the playThe Marriage of FigarobyPierre Beaumarchais.Based on theNissan Micra, the Figaro was built at Aichi Machine Industry,[1]a special projects group which Nissan would later call "Pike Factory," which also produced three other niche automobiles: theBe-1,PaoandS-Cargo.
As a fixed-profile convertible, the upper side elements of the Figaro's bodywork remain fixed, while its fabric soft top retracts to provide a less fully open experience than a typical convertible. The fixed-profile concept is seen on other convertibles, including theCitroën 2CV(1948–1990), theNash Rambler Convertible "Landau" Coupe(1950), and the 1957Fiat 500— as well its 2007Fiat 500successor.
The Figaro was marketed in four colours representing the four seasons: Topaz Mist (Autumn), Emerald Green (Spring), Pale Aqua (Summer) and Lapis Grey (Winter). Few, reportedly 2,000, were marketed in Topaz Mist.
The Figaro was equipped withleatherseats,air conditioning,CD playerand a fixed-profileslide-back open roof.
8000 were originally available with an additional 12,000 added to production numbers to meet demand. Prospective purchasers entered a lottery to purchase a Figaro. Limited edition cars came with passenger side baskets and cup holders.
This vehicle was imported to Canada in 2012 and I purchased it in 2013 and have garaged the car every winter. All regular service and upkeep is completed, I have copies of invoices available for the buyer.