The Nissan Cima (FY33), produced between 1996 and 2001, represented a significant evolution of Nissan’s flagship sedan. Positioned as a luxury vehicle primarily for the Japanese domestic market (JDM), the FY33 Cima aimed to compete with established players like the Toyota Crown and Honda Inspire. This generation marked a shift towards a more modern design and a greater emphasis on comfort and technology. The 3.0i V6 24V Turbo variant, equipped with a 2960cc engine producing 255 horsepower, sat at the top of the Cima lineup, offering a blend of performance and refinement. It was a statement of Nissan’s engineering capabilities and a popular choice for discerning buyers seeking a sophisticated and powerful sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Cima |
| Generation | Cima (FY33) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 i V6 24V Turbo (255 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.2 l/100 km (25.6 US mpg, 30.7 UK mpg, 10.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.5 kg/Hp, 153.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 206.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 255 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 86.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 343 Nm @ 3200 rpm (252.98 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2960 cm3 (180.63 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1660 kg (3659.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1935 kg (4265.94 lbs.) |
| Max load | 275 kg (606.27 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4945 mm (194.69 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2815 mm (110.83 in.) |
| Front track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R15 H |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cima 3.0i Turbo was Nissan’s VQ30ET engine, a 3.0-liter V6 boasting a sophisticated turbocharging system. This engine, part of the highly regarded VQ family, was known for its smooth power delivery and relative reliability. The ‘ET’ designation signified the addition of a turbocharger to the naturally aspirated VQ30DE. The engine utilized multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its efficient combustion and power output. The turbocharger itself was a Garrett unit, carefully matched to the engine’s characteristics to minimize turbo lag and maximize boost across the rev range. The engine was longitudinally mounted, driving the rear wheels. The transmission was a four-speed automatic, chosen for its smoothness and suitability for the Cima’s luxury positioning. While not the most advanced transmission available at the time, it was well-suited to the engine’s torque curve and provided comfortable shifting.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0i Turbo Cima offered a noticeably different driving experience compared to the naturally aspirated versions. The turbocharger provided a significant boost in power and torque, resulting in brisk acceleration and effortless highway cruising. While the four-speed automatic transmission wasn’t as quick-shifting as some contemporary gearboxes, it provided smooth and predictable gear changes. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to a balanced feel, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The suspension was tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and providing a refined ride quality. Compared to the base models, the turbo variant offered a more engaging driving experience, but it still prioritized luxury and refinement over outright performance. The power delivery was linear and predictable, making it easy to control even for less experienced drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cima 3.0i Turbo was typically equipped with a comprehensive list of standard features befitting its flagship status. These included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and woodgrain interior trim. Optional extras could include a navigation system, a sunroof, and upgraded audio components. The interior design was focused on creating a luxurious and comfortable environment, with attention paid to detail and material quality. The dashboard layout was clean and functional, with easy-to-read gauges and intuitive controls. The exterior styling was understated and elegant, with chrome accents and a refined silhouette.
Chassis & Braking
The Cima FY33 utilized a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. The front suspension employed a wishbone design, while the rear suspension featured coil springs. This setup prioritized ride comfort and stability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The steering was a rack and pinion system with hydraulic power assistance, offering precise and responsive handling. The tires were typically 215/65 R15, chosen for their balance of comfort and grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Cima 3.0i Turbo was generally well-received by critics and consumers in Japan. It was praised for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the four-speed automatic transmission felt dated compared to the five-speed automatics offered by some competitors. Compared to the naturally aspirated Cima models, the turbo variant offered a significant performance upgrade, but it also came with a higher price tag. Fuel economy was reasonable for a vehicle of its size and performance, averaging around 9.2 l/100 km. In terms of reliability, the VQ30ET engine proved to be relatively robust, although regular maintenance was essential to ensure optimal performance.
Legacy
The Nissan Cima FY33, particularly the 3.0i Turbo variant, remains a sought-after vehicle among JDM enthusiasts. Its combination of luxury, performance, and reliability has ensured its enduring appeal. While not as widely exported as some other JDM models, the Cima has gained a following in recent years, thanks to its unique styling and powerful engine. The VQ30ET engine is considered a strong and durable unit, and well-maintained examples can still provide years of reliable service. In the used car market, the Cima 3.0i Turbo commands a premium price compared to the base models, reflecting its desirability and rarity. It stands as a testament to Nissan’s engineering prowess and a reminder of a bygone era of Japanese luxury sedans.
