Nissan Bluebird - one of the most iconic models of the Japanese automobile industry, whose history goes back more than 60 years. This sedan has gone from a modest family car to a technologically advanced representative of the middle class, gaining popularity all over the world. In Russia the model is known as Nissan Almera Classic (in some generations), but abroad retains the historical name - Bluebird.

Over the decades of existence Bluebird replaced 13 generations, each of which introduced revolutionary changes in design, technical content and positioning. From the first compact versions with engines of less than 1.5 liters to modern hybrid modifications, the model has adapted to the demands of the times without losing its DNA. In this article, we will analyze each generation in detail, highlight the key features and help you decide on a used copy.

1. First generation (1957–1960): the beginning of a legend

Debut Nissan Bluebird 210 appeared in 1957 as the Japanese auto industry's response to the growing demand for affordable family cars. This was a time when Japan was just beginning to recover from the war, and compact sedans became a symbol of economic recovery. The first generation was equipped with a modest 1.2-liter engine with a power of only 37 hp, but for that time this was enough.

Design Bluebird 210 was simple and functional: rounded shapes, chrome bumpers and a minimalist front panel. Interestingly, the model was the first in Japan, where it appeared automatic transmission (optional for 1959 versions). Today, original copies are a rarity, prices for which reach up to $50,000 at classic car auctions.

  • 🔧 Engine: 1.2 l (37–45 hp)
  • 🚗 Body: 2-door sedan, station wagon
  • ⚙️ Transmission: 3-speed manual transmission / 2-speed automatic transmission
  • 💰 Average price today: from $30,000 (in perfect condition)
⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a rare Bluebird 210 check for original parts - many examples were assembled from spare parts from different years, which reduces their collectible value.

2. Second–fourth generations (1960–1972): export breakthrough

From 1960 to 1972 Nissan Bluebird survived three generations (310, 410, 510), which made the model popular outside of Japan. Especially stands out Bluebird 510 (1967–1972) - the first generation officially exported to the USA and Europe. It was this version that received the nickname "Datsun 510" (under the brand Datsun, owned by Nissan).

Technically 510th generation became revolutionary: front disc brakes, independent suspension and engines with a volume of up to 1.6 liters appeared (up to 96 hp). The design was developed by an Italian studio Pininfarina, which gave the car European elegance. In the races 510th Bluebird won many victories, including championships Trans-Am in the USA.

Generation Years of production Key innovations Export markets
310 (P310) 1960–1963 The first 4-door body, 1.2 l (50 hp) engine Japan, Australia
410 (P410) 1963–1967 Extended wheelbase, 1.3 l (60 hp) engine Japan, Southeast Asia
510 (P510) 1967–1972 Pininfarina design, disc brakes, 1.6 l (96 hp) engine USA, Europe, Australia

In the USSR Datsun 510 received in limited quantities—mostly as official cars for diplomats. Today, these examples are a real rarity, and their value on the secondary market starts from 1.5 million rubles.

📊 Which generation of Bluebird do you like best?
  • First (1957–1960)
  • Second–fourth (1960–1972)
  • Fifth–seventh (1972–1986)
  • Eighth–tenth (1986–2001)
  • Eleventh–thirteenth (2001–present)

3. Fifth–seventh generations (1972–1986): transition to front-wheel drive

The 1970s and 1980s were an era of dramatic change for Bluebird. B 1972 fifth generation debuted (610), which first proposed options with rotary engine (in collaboration with Mazda). However, the real revolution happened in 1983 with the release Bluebird U11 - first generation from front wheel drive.

Model U11 (1983–1986) became a hit thanks to:

  • 🔋 Economical motors CA16/CA18 with fuel injection system;
  • 🚘 Sedan, hatchback and station wagon body styles;
  • 💡 Digital dashboard (optional for top versions).

In the USSR Nissan Bluebird U11 supplied under the name Datsun 160J and became one of the first Japanese cars available to private buyers. Today, these machines are valued for their simplicity of design and reliability - provided there is no corrosion.

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Upon examination Bluebird U11 Pay special attention to the rear arches and sills - this is where rust most often begins due to poor anti-corrosion treatment at the factory.

4. Eighth–tenth generations (1986–2001): the era of turbo engines and all-wheel drive

From 1986 to 2001 Nissan Bluebird survived three generations (U12, U13, U14), which are remembered as era technical experiments. During this period the model offered:

  • 🔥 Turbocharged engines SR20DET (up to 205 hp in version SSS-R);
  • 🔄 All wheel drive ATTESA (analogue of the system from Skyline GT-R);
  • 🎛 Electronic suspension with variable stiffness.

Especially stands out Bluebird U13 (1991–1996) - the first generation officially sold in Russia under the name Nissan Primera (in a hatchback body). Turbocharged versions accelerated to 100 km/h for 6.5 seconds, making them one of the fastest sedans in the class.

Modification Engine Power Drive Acceleration 0–100 km/h
SSS (U12) CA18DET 165 hp Front 7.8 s
SSS-R (U13) SR20DET 205 hp ATTESA (full) 6.5 s
2.0 GT (U14) SR20DE 150 hp Front 8.2 s
⚠️ Attention: Turbocharged engines SR20DET in Bluebird U13 require regular oil changes (every 5,000 km) - if the intervals are not observed, there is a high risk of oil starvation and turbine failure.

5. Eleventh generation (2001–2012): return to origins

In 2001 Nissan Bluebird underwent rebranding: in Japan the model began to be called Nissan Bluebird Sylphy, and a version was prepared for global markets Nissan Almera Classic. This generation (G10) returned to simple solutions:

  • 🔄 Classic rear-wheel drive platform (for Japan);
  • 🔧 Atmospheric engines QR20DE And QR25DE;
  • 💺 Spacious interior with an emphasis on comfort.

In Russia Almera Classic sold from 2006 to 2012 and became one of the most popular budget sedans. Its main advantages are low cost of service and maintainability. However, weaknesses remain body corrosion And fragility of automatic transmissions.

☑️ What to check when buying Almera Classic (G10)

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6. Twelfth and Thirteenth Generations (2012–present): Modern Era

Since 2012 Nissan Bluebird Sylphy (in Japan and China) and Nissan Sylphy (in global markets) represent a completely updated model on the platform Nissan V. Key Features:

  • 🔋 Hybrid version with system e-Power (electric motor + gasoline generator);
  • 🤖 Driver assistance systems ProPILOT (adaptive cruise, lane keeping);
  • 📱 Digital dashboard and multimedia support Apple CarPlay.

The model is not officially sold in Russia, but is available through parallel imports. Hybrid version e-Power is especially interesting: it combines efficiency (consumption 4.5 l/100 km) with the dynamics of the electric motor (acceleration to 100 km/h for 8.5 s).

How does e-Power differ from a classic hybrid?

With the e-Power system, the petrol engine does NOT turn the wheels - it only acts as a generator to charge the battery. The wheels are always driven by an electric motor, which makes acceleration smooth and quiet, and fuel consumption is minimal.

Comparison of generations: which one to choose?

Generation choice Nissan Bluebird depends on your goals:

  • 🏆 Collectors: first to fourth generations (1957–1972) - a rarity with high investment value.
  • 🚗 Drive lovers: eighth–tenth generations (1986–2001) with turbo engines and all-wheel drive.
  • 💰 Budget shoppers: eleventh generation (Almera Classic, 2001–2012) - cheap to maintain.
  • 🌿 Eco-oriented: thirteenth generation since e-Power (2020–present).

For Russian conditions, the optimal choice remains Almera Classic (G10) - due to the availability of spare parts and simple design. Turbocharged versions U13/U14 suitable for enthusiasts who are willing to invest in maintenance.

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If you're looking for a reliable daily driver, avoid versions with a CVT before 2010 - they rarely last more than 150,000 km without major repairs.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions

Which generation of Bluebird is the most reliable?

According to statistics from Japanese auctions, fifth–seventh generations (1972–1986) with naturally aspirated engines CA18 And L18 are considered the most "unkillable". They are easy to repair and less susceptible to corrosion than later models. However, for modern use it is better to consider Almera Classic (G10) — it has more spare parts and lower fuel consumption.

Is it possible to install a Skyline turbo engine on a Bluebird U13?

Technically yes: motors SR20DET from Skyline R32/R33 compatible with Bluebird U13, since both are built on a platform Nissan S. However, you will need:

  • Replacing the gearbox (to FS5R30A or FS5W71C);
  • Modification of the exhaust system and fuel line;
  • ECU tuning (it is better to use Haltech or Apexi Power FC).

The budget for such a swap starts from 300,000 rubles excluding work.

How to distinguish an original Bluebird SSS-R from a replica?

Original Bluebird SSS-R (U13) have:

  • Nameplate SSS-R on the rear of the body;
  • Red seat belts and seat stitching;
  • Unique discs 15x6JJ with 5 bolts;
  • Engine serial number starting with SR20DET-00*.

Check the VIN code through the database Nissan Heritage Parts — replicas are often collected from different donors.

How much does it cost to restore a rare Bluebird 210?

Full recovery Bluebird 210 (1957–1960) in Japan costs 80 000–120 000$, including:

  • Body work (corrosion removal, painting);
  • Engine and transmission restoration;
  • Replacement of all rubber seals and chrome parts;
  • Interior tuning (trimming, dashboard).

In Russia, such work will cost less (3–5 million rubles), but finding original spare parts is extremely difficult.

Is Bluebird suitable for tuning?

Nissan Bluebird — an excellent base for tuning, especially generations U12–U14. Popular destinations:

  • 🔧 Engine: swap on SR20VET (280 hp) or CA18DET with turbine Garrett T28;
  • 🚗 Suspension: installation of racks Tein or KW, reinforced stabilizers;
  • 🎨 Exterior: body kits Tommy Kaira or Mine's, xenon headlights;
  • 🔊 Audio: installation of a subwoofer in the trunk (in versions with all-wheel drive, the battery is moved to the trunk).

Better suited for drifting Bluebird U13 with rear wheel drive and motor CA18DET.