Nissan Safari 510 is a legendary Japanese SUV that is still in demand due to its reliability and cross-country ability. However, before purchasing, it is important to understand its dimensions: from the length of the body to the volume of the trunk. These parameters directly affect comfort, handling and cargo transportation capabilities.
Models Y60 (1989–1997) and Y61 (1997–2023) have similar dimensions, but with some nuances. In this article we will analyze in detail all the key parameters, compare them with competitors and give practical advice on operation. We will pay special attention to how the dimensions affect everyday use - from parking in the city to off-road driving.
Dimensions of Nissan Safari 510: length, width, height
Basic dimensions Safari 510 have remained virtually unchanged for decades, but there are differences between generations and modifications. Below are the standard parameters for the most common versions:
- 📏 Body length: 4,850 mm (Y60) / 4,880 mm (Y61) - the difference of 30 mm is due to the change in the bumper in the restyled model.
- 📐 Width (without mirrors): 1,800 mm - the same for both generations, but taking into account the mirrors, the width increases to ~2,100 mm.
- 📈 Height: 1,890 mm (Y60) / 1,920 mm (Y61) - an increase of 30 mm is due to changes in suspension and ground clearance.
- 🚙 Wheelbase: 2,850 mm is a stable figure that ensures off-road stability.
It is important to note that this data is relevant for the standard versions. For modifications with lift kits or armored packages height and width may differ by 50–150 mm. For example, armored Safari from Nissan Special Vehicles have a height of up to 2,050 mm.
- Overall length
- Width for city parking
- Height and ground clearance
- Trunk volume
Ground clearance (ground clearance) and geometric cross-country ability
One of the key parameters for an SUV is ground clearance. U Safari 510 it varies depending on the modification and year of manufacture:
- 🔧 Standard ground clearance (Y60): 215 mm is sufficient for most types of off-road.
- 🔧 Standard ground clearance (Y61): 225 mm - improved cross-country ability thanks to modified suspension.
- 🔧 With lift kit: up to 280 mm - a popular solution for extreme off-road.
Geometric cross-country ability is determined not only by ground clearance, but also by approach/departure angles. U Safari 510 they are:
- 📉 Entry angle: 36° (Y60) / 38° (Y61).
- 📈 Departure angle: 27° (both generations).
- 🔄 Longitudinal flotation angle: 22° - limited by base length.
If you are planning serious off-roading, pay attention to modifications with differential blocker — they compensate for the lower departure angle due to better grip.
Trunk and interior volume: how much can the Safari 510 hold?
Spaciousness is one of the main advantages Safari 510. Trunk volume depends on the configuration and interior configuration:
| Parameter | Y60 (1989–1997) | Y61 (1997–2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Trunk volume (standard) | 800 l | 850 l |
| Volume with seats folded | 2,000 l | 2 100 l |
| Cargo Length | 1 200 mm | 1 250 mm |
| Width between arches | 1 100 mm | 1 120 mm |
| Load capacity | 750 kg | 800 kg |
For comparison: Toyota Land Cruiser 80 The trunk volume is 900 liters, but Safari benefits from a wider cargo compartment. If you need to transport long loads (for example, boards or bicycles), pay attention to modifications with folding tailgate — they allow you to increase the length of the loading platform to 1,800 mm.
How to increase trunk volume?
Install a roof rack (maximum load 75 kg for Y60 and 100 kg for Y61) or use a trailer. However, remember that exceeding the permissible weight of the towed trailer (2,500 kg for Y61 with TD42 diesel engine) leads to overheating of the transmission.
Comparison with competitors: Safari 510 vs Land Cruiser 80 vs Patrol Y61
To objectively assess the dimensions Safari 510, let's compare it with the main competitors in the class:
| Parameter | Nissan Safari Y61 | Toyota Land Cruiser 80 | Nissan Patrol Y61 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length, mm | 4 880 | 4 890 | 4 850 |
| Width, mm | 1 800 | 1 870 | 1 820 |
| Height, mm | 1 920 | 1 930 | 1 940 |
| Ground clearance, mm | 225 | 220 | 210 |
| Trunk volume, l | 850 | 900 | 820 |
Safari 510 occupies an intermediate position: he is already Land Cruiser 80, but higher and more spacious Patrol Y61. The main advantage is optimal ratio of dimensions and cross-country ability. For example, the smaller width makes parking in the city easier, while the high ground clearance maintains off-road capabilities.
⚠️ Attention: When choosing between Safari Y60 And Y61 Keep in mind that the second generation is 150–200 kg heavier. This affects fuel consumption and dynamics, especially with a gasoline engine TB45E.
How dimensions affect operation: pros and cons
Dimensions Safari 510 have both advantages and disadvantages. Let's look at them in detail:
- ✅ Spacious interior: even tall passengers are comfortable in the back row (the distance from floor to ceiling is 1,050 mm).
- ✅ Versatility: Suitable for family, travel and cargo transportation.
- ✅ Road stability: long wheelbase (2,850 mm) reduces sway at high speeds.
- ❌ Difficulties with parking: length of almost 5 meters requires skills to maneuver in tight yards.
- ❌ High center of gravity: risk of capsizing on sharp turns (especially for modifications with a lift kit).
- ❌ Limited maneuverability: turning radius - 6.3 m (versus 5.7 m for Toyota Prado 90).
For urban use it is recommended to install parking sensors or rear view camera — this compensates for the large dimensions. On the other hand, off-road, a long wheelbase can become a problem: for example, when overcoming deep ruts or steep climbs.
☑️ What to check when buying Safari 510?
Body modifications: standard, extended and armored options
In addition to the standard version, Safari 510 was produced in several body modifications:
- 🚗 Standard (5-door): the most common option is described above.
- 🚐 Extended (7-seater): length increased to 5,100 mm, trunk - up to 1,000 l. Rarely found, mainly in Australia and the Middle East.
- 🛡️ Armored: weight +300–500 kg, height up to 2,050 mm. Used by the military and police.
- 🏕️ Pickup (convertible): experimental versions for the Middle East market, loading platform length - 1,500 mm.
Extended versions have an extended wheelbase (3,100 mm), which improves the comfort of rear passengers, but makes it more difficult to drive off-road. Armored Safari require reinforced suspension and a powerful engine (usually TD42T with turbine).
Armored versions Safari 510 were not officially supplied to Russia. Most examples on the secondary market are converted civilian models, which requires careful checking of documentation.
Practical tips: how to adapt Safari 510 to your needs
Dimensions Safari 510 can be optimized for specific tasks. Here are some proven solutions:
- 🔧 For the city: install a short-travel suspension (clearance 190–200 mm) to lower the center of gravity.
- 🌲 Off-road: lift kit +30 mm and tires
33"(maximum size without modifications to the arches). - 🚚 For cargo transportation: remove the rear row of seats and install a dividing net.
- 👨👩👧👦 For family: use trunk organizers (such as drawers ARB or Front Runner).
When tuning, keep in mind that changing the ground clearance by more than 50 mm requires wheel alignment adjustments and checking the operating angles of CV joints. Also, do not forget about legal restrictions: in Russia, the maximum allowable ground clearance for passenger cars is 300 mm (including tires).
⚠️ Attention: When installing the lift kit on Safari Y60 with gasoline engine TB42E Acceleration dynamics may deteriorate due to increased weight. In this case, it is recommended to reflash the ECU or install a turbo kit.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the dimensions of the Nissan Safari 510
Is it possible to install on Safari 510 35" tires without arch trimming?
No, for tires 35" trimming of the rear arches and a suspension lift of at least +50 mm will be required. Otherwise, the tires will touch the body when fully loaded or on bumps. The alternative is to use tires 33x12.5 R15 with minimal lift (+30 mm).
What is the maximum weight that can be carried in the trunk? Safari Y61?
The rated load capacity is 800 kg, but the load must be distributed evenly. Exceeding the weight by more than 100 kg leads to sagging of the rear suspension and the risk of damage to the shock absorbers. For heavy loads (e.g. trailer) it is recommended to install reinforced springs or air suspension.
Will it fit? Safari 510 for a garage 2 meters high?
Standard height Y61 - 1,920 mm, but taking into account the antenna or roof rack, the total height can reach 2,100 mm. If the garage is exactly 2 m high, you will have to remove the antenna or use low-profile roof rails. For Y60 (height 1,890 mm) there are usually no problems.
What is the difference in dimensions between diesel and petrol versions?
There are no differences in dimensions - they depend only on the generation (Y60/Y61) and body modification. However, diesel versions (TD42, RD28T) are 80–120 kg heavier than gasoline ones, which affects weight distribution and handling.
Is it possible to tow a 3 ton trailer? Safari Y61?
The official maximum towable trailer weight for Y61 with diesel TD42T — 2,500 kg. Exceeding this value leads to overheating of the transmission and brake system. To tow 3 tons, you will need to install an additional cooling radiator and a reinforced clutch.