Nissan Sunny 1987 is not just a car, but a symbol of the era. In the USSR and post-Soviet space, the model B12 has become one of the most popular foreign cars due to its reliability, simplicity of design and availability of spare parts. This compact sedan, released as part of the 7th generation, still drives on the roads, surprising with its survivability. But what makes it so special? Why, even after 35+ years, are the owners in no hurry to part with this car?

In 1987 Sunny offered with gasoline engines ranging from 1.3 to 1.8 l, manual or automatic transmission, as well as in sedan, hatchback and station wagon bodies. But it’s the sedan B12 became a bestseller - its balanced suspension, efficiency and unpretentiousness made the model ideal for urban use. However, the car also has weaknesses that you should know about before purchasing or repairing.

Technical characteristics of Nissan Sunny B12 1987

The 1987 model belongs to the generation B12, which was produced from 1985 to 1990. Depending on the sales market, the car could be equipped with different power units. In Japan and Europe, the most common motors were the series E15 And E16, while on export versions (for example, in the USSR) it was often found 1.6 liter E16S with carburetor.

Main technical parameters:

  • 🔧 Engines: E13S (1.3 l, 69 hp), E15S (1.5 l, 75–86 hp), E16S (1.6 l, 88–95 hp), CA18S (1.8 l, 101 hp)
  • ⚙️ Gearboxes: 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic (4-speed in some markets)
  • 🚗 Drive: front (FWD) or full (4WD, rarely)
  • 💨 Maximum speed: 160–180 km/h (depending on the engine)
  • ⛽ Fuel consumption: 7–9 l/100 km (carburetor), 6–8 l/100 km (injector, rare for 1987)
Modification Engine capacity Power Gearbox type Drive
Sunny 1.3 (E13S) 1.3 l 69 hp Manual transmission-5 / automatic transmission-3 FWD
Sunny 1.5 (E15S) 1.5 l 75–86 hp Manual transmission-5 / automatic transmission-3 FWD
Sunny 1.6 (E16S) 1.6 l 88–95 hp Manual transmission-5 FWD/4WD (optional)
Sunny 1.8 (CA18S) 1.8 l 101 hp Manual transmission-5 FWD

Important: in the market of the USSR and Russia the majority Sunny B12 1987 equipped with carburetor engines E16S (1.6 l) with manual transmission. Injection versions (EFI) are extremely rare and are much more expensive.

📊 What engine does your Nissan Sunny B12 have?
  • 1.3 l (E13S)
  • 1.5 l (E15S)
  • 1.6 l (E16S)
  • 1.8 l (CA18S)
  • I don't know

Weaknesses and typical problems

Despite the legendary reliability, Nissan Sunny B12 has several “diseases” that appear with age. Most of them are due to normal wear and tear, but some are a consequence of design features.

Main problems:

  • 🔥 Body corrosion: Wheel arches, sills, underbody and pillars rust. Cars operated in regions with salt on the roads are especially vulnerable.
  • 🛢️ Oil leaks: The crankshaft, camshaft and rear gearbox oil seals often “cry” after 200 thousand km.
  • ⚡ Electrical: oxidation of contacts in the fuse box, problems with the generator and starter.
  • 🔧 Suspension: wear of silent blocks, ball joints and shock absorbers is a standard problem for cars of this age.
  • 🔥 Carburetor: on E16S The jets often become clogged and require regular cleaning.
⚠️ Attention: If upon purchase Sunny B12 you notice that the engine is “troubling” at idle, first check vacuum hoses - they often crack and cause air leaks. Also inspect distributor: contacts and slider wear out and require replacement every 50–60 thousand km.

Another common problem is engine overheating. Most often this is due to:

  • 🚿 Clogged radiator or thermostat
  • 🔄 Faulty cooling fan (on electric models)
  • 💦 Antifreeze leaking through the cylinder head gasket (especially on engines with mileage over 300 thousand km)
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Before purchasing Nissan Sunny B12 be sure to check the condition windshield frames - This is one of the most vulnerable places for corrosion. If there are holes through there, restoration will be expensive.

Repair and maintenance: what the owner needs to know

Service Sunny B12 does not require special skills, but there are nuances that will help save time and money. For example, the engine oil should be changed every 5–7 thousand km (even if the mileage is small, the oil ages!). Semi-synthetic is suitable for carburetor engines 10W-40, for injection (if you’re lucky enough to find it) - 5W-30.

Regarding adjustments, then what is important here is:

  • 🔧 Every 20 thousand km check and adjust if necessary valve (gaps: intake - 0.20 mm, graduations - 0.30 mm).
  • ⚙️ Once every 100 thousand km change the timing belt (to E16S it takes longer, but it’s not worth the risk).
  • 🔥 Clean carburetor every 30 thousand km (use cleaner Abro or HI-GEAR).

To replace consumables, analogues from NGK (candles), Bosch (filters) or Febi (seals). Original spare parts from Nissan It's hard to find, but there are many quality alternatives. For example, pads are great for the brake system Akebono or Nisshinbo.

Check the condition of the battery (capacity and electrolyte level)

Replace antifreeze (if it has not been changed in the last 2 years)

Lubricate door seals with silicone grease

Check the operation of the stove and thermostat

Install winter candles (for example, NGK BPR6ES)

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⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the timing belt the engine E16S does not start or runs intermittently, check setting labels. On this engine, even a single tooth error leads to a failure of the valve timing!

Tuning and modernization: how to improve Sunny B12

Many owners Sunny B12 want to make their car faster, more comfortable or simply more unique. Tuning of this model can be divided into three areas:

  1. Engine: The easiest way to increase power is to replace the carburetor with injector (for example, from Nissan GA16DE). Installation is also popular turbines on CA18S, but this requires serious improvements.
  2. Suspension: replacing shock absorbers with gas-oil ones (KYB or Tokico), installation lower springs (For example, Tanabe) and anti-roll bars.
  3. Exterior: bumpers from Nissan Pulsar N14, spoilers, tinting and LED optics.

One of the most popular tuning options is engine swap. On Sunny B12 often installed:

  • 🔥 SR20DE (2.0 l, 150+ hp) - requires modification of fastenings and electrics.
  • ⚡ GA16DE (1.6 l, 105 hp) - a simpler option, since the original gearbox is suitable.
  • 💨 CA18DET (1.8 l, turbo, 170+ hp) - for fans of drag racing.

If you are not ready for major modifications, start small:

  • 🎵 Install high quality audio system (For example, Pioneer or Alpine).
  • 🔦 Replace the stock headlights with halogen with lenses or LED (but check the legality!).
  • 🛋️ Put sports seats (for example, from Recaro or Sparco).
How much does an engine swap cost for a Sunny B12?

The cost of the swap depends on the donor:

- GA16DE (used) - from 50,000 to 100,000 rubles. (including work).

- SR20DE — from 150,000 to 300,000 rubles. (with modifications).

- CA18DET — from 200,000 rub. (plus turbo kit and tuning).

Do not forget that after the swap you will need registration of changes in the traffic police!

Where to buy spare parts and how much does it cost?

Find spare parts for Nissan Sunny B12 today is not as difficult as it might seem. Main sources:

  • 🛒 Online stores: Exist.ru, Autodoc, Emex — there are catalogs with original numbers here.
  • 🔧 Showdown: in Moscow, St. Petersburg and other large cities there are dismantling shops for Japanese cars (for example, JapZap).
  • 🌍 Foreign sites: eBay, Amazon Japan, Yahoo Auctions - rare parts can be found here, but delivery may take a month.
  • 🏗️ Local workshops: many service stations specialize in Japanese cars from the 80s and 90s and have their own spare parts warehouse.

Approximate prices for popular spare parts (2026):

Spare part Original (used) Analogue (new)
Generator 8,000–15,000 rub. 6,000–10,000 rub.
Starter 5,000–12,000 rub. 4,000–8,000 rub.
Carburetor (full) 10,000–20,000 rub. 15,000–25,000 rub. (repair kit - 2,000 rub.)
Shock absorbers (set) — 8,000–15,000 rub. (KYB or Monroe)
Timing belt (set) — 2,500–4,000 rub. (Gates or Contitech)

Advice: When purchasing used parts, be sure to check them for corrosion and wear. For example, stepped gearbox shaft often sold with worn splines - this will lead to clutch slipping.

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Before purchasing spare parts, always check with VIN code your car. Models for the Japanese and European markets may have different part numbers even for the same parts!

Cost of Nissan Sunny B12 1987 on the secondary market

Price for Nissan Sunny B12 1987 varies by condition, mileage and region. In 2026 the range is as follows:

  • 🚗 "Dead" copy (rust, not running) - 30,000–80,000 rub.
  • 🔧 Running, but needs repairs (oil leaking, electrical problems) — 100,000–200,000 rub.
  • ✨ In good condition (the body is intact, the engine runs smoothly) — 250,000–400,000 rub.
  • 💎 Collector's item (restored, low mileage) — 500,000–800,000 rub. and above.

The price is affected by:

  • 🔹 Availability original parts (for example, radio Nissan Clarion, steering wheel with logo).
  • 🔹 Condition body — even small pockets of corrosion can reduce the cost by 30–50%.
  • 🔹 Availability documents (PTS, STS) and service history.
  • 🔹 Modifications: all-wheel drive versions (4WD) and cars with automatic transmission are valued higher.
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Sunny B12 be sure to check engine number for interruption. In the 90s, these cars were often imported “gray”, and mismatching numbers can cause problems when registering.

Owner reviews: pros and cons

Owners Nissan Sunny B12 note the following advantages:

  • ✅ Reliability: with proper maintenance the engine E16S passes easily 400–500 thousand km.
  • ✅ Ease of repair: You can repair it yourself even in the garage.
  • ✅ Economical: Fuel consumption is at the level of modern small cars.
  • ✅ Handling: The front-wheel drive platform provides good directional stability.

The most frequently mentioned disadvantages are:

  • ❌ Corrosion: Even with careful use, rust appears after 10–15 years.
  • ❌ Noise: poor sound insulation and vibration at high speeds.
  • ❌ Weak dynamics: with motor 1.6 Acceleration to 100 km/h takes about 12–14 seconds.
  • ❌ Outdated ergonomics: uncomfortable seats, lack of modern options.

Some owners share interesting life hacks. For example:

"If you have Sunny B12 with a carburetor and hard to start in winter, try warm up the intake manifold hairdryer before starting. This helps prevent the throttle body from icing up."

— Alexey, owner Sunny 1.6 1987

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Sunny B12 1987

What kind of gasoline should I put in a 1987 Nissan Sunny B12?

For carburetor engines (E13S, E15S, E16S) recommended AI-92. You can also fill AI-95, but this will not give an increase in power, but will only increase the cost of refueling. For injection versions (EFI) it is better to use AI-95.

How often do valves need to be adjusted on an E16S?

Adjusting valves on the engine E16S required every 20,000 km. If you neglect this procedure, over time a knock will appear, compression will drop and fuel consumption will increase. The cost of adjustment during the service is approx. 1,500–2,500 rub..

Is it possible to install an air conditioner on Sunny B12?

Yes, but it's a complicated procedure. You will need:

  • Compressor (for example, from Nissan Almera N15)
  • Air conditioner radiator
  • Pipes and wiring
  • Control unit (can be used universal)

The cost of turnkey installation is from 50,000 to 100,000 rub., depending on the configuration.

What kind of oil to pour into the Nissan Sunny B12 gearbox?

For manual transmissions, gear oil is recommended GL-4 75W-90 (For example, Castrol Syntrans Transaxle or Liqui Moly Hochleistungs-Getriebeoil). Volume - approx. 2.7 l. Replacement required every 60,000 km.

Where can I find a wiring diagram for Nissan Sunny B12?

Electrical diagrams can be downloaded:

  • On the forums (Nissan-Club.ru, Drive2.ru)
  • In VKontakte groups (for example, "Nissan Sunny B12")
  • On foreign sites (Nicoclub.com, B12Sentra.net)

Also useful book: "Nissan Sunny B12 Service Manual" (can be found in PDF).