Nissan Prairie M10,NM10 1.8 SGL (M10) (90 Hp)


Overall Rating

6.9 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.5 / 5
Value 3.5 / 5
Performance 2.5 / 5
Comfort 3.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Nissan Prairie:

The Nissan Prairie is an automobile manufactured and marketed by Nissan from 1981 to 2004. Considered a mini MPV or a compact MPV. It was also marketed as the Multi in Canada and the Stanza Wagon in the United States. In Japan, it was exclusive to Nissan Bluebird Store locations, then later at Nissan Blue Stage sales channels. The Prairie had a very flexible seating capability and sliding rear doors on both sides of the vehicle, with a liftgate in the back. The name "prairie" was derived from French which means an extensive area of relatively flat grassland, similar to "steppe" or "savanna"....(Read more on Wikipedia)

M10,NM10 Overview:

Nissan Prairie (M10,NM10). With 150 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~9.4 l/100km). Weighing only 1090 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. The top speed reaches 160 km/h. A spacious vehicle designed to transport passengers comfortably, often with sliding doors. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

1.8 SGL (M10) (90 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Offers adequate performance for daily driving and light loads, with reasonable torque delivery for its class in the mid-80s. Not built for speed but capable.

Fuel Economy

With a carbureted 1.8L (1974cc CA18S) engine, fuel economy is acceptable for its time, especially on extra-urban cycles, but urban consumption can be higher.

Best Use Case: Mixed driving, suitable for families and light cargo on both city streets and highways.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Innovative 'pillarless' design for easy access and spacious interior.
  • • Excellent visibility due to large glass areas.
  • • Highly versatile and practical interior with flexible seating.
  • • Compact exterior dimensions for urban maneuverability.
  • • Generally reliable mechanicals for its era.

Cons:

  • • Underpowered engines, especially the base 1.5L, leading to sluggish performance.
  • • Lacks modern safety features (airbags, ABS) common in later vehicles.
  • • Basic interior materials and limited creature comforts.
  • • Dated ride and handling characteristics compared to modern minivans.
  • • Potential for rust issues in older models.

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(M10,NM10: 1984 - 1987).

General:
Brand:Nissan
Model:Prairie
Generation:M10,NM10
Modification (Engine):1.8 SGL (M10) (90 Hp)
Start of production:1985
End of production:1987
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Minivan
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:90 Hp @ 5200 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:45.6 Hp/l [worst than previous generation]
Torque:150 Nm @ 3200 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:CA18S More details about the engine CA18S
Engine displacement:1974
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Carburettor
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:SOHC
Engine oil capacity:3.9 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:84.5 mm mm
Piston Stroke:88 mm mm
Compression ratio:9.4:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:9.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:6.5 l/100 km
Maximum speed:160 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:12.1 kg/Hp, 82.6 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:7.3 kg/Nm, 137.6 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1090
Max. weight:1570
Max. roof load:75 kg
Max load:480
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):1100 kg
Fuel tank capacity:50 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:500 kg
Permitted towbar download:50 kg
Size:
Length:4090 mm mm
Width:1660 mm mm
Height:1650 mm mm
Wheelbase:2510 mm mm
Front track:1430 mm
Rear (Back) track:1390 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.8 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Tires sizeFront wheel tires: 185/70 R13
Wheel rims sizeFront wheel rims: 5J x 13
Front suspensionIndependent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar
Rear suspensionWishbone, Torsion

The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the Nissan Prairie!