The Nissan Almera Classic (B10) 1.6 i 16V, produced between 2006 and 2010, represented a continuation of the Almera nameplate, specifically tailored for markets outside of Japan where the Tiida had begun to replace the original Almera. This variant, powered by the QG16DE engine and typically paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, occupied a central position in the Almera Classic lineup, offering a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and acceptable performance. It was primarily aimed at buyers seeking a practical and reliable family sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Almera |
| Generation | Almera Classic (B10) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 i 16V (107 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.2 l/100 km (25.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 107 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 4000 rpm (110.63 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | QG16DE |
| Engine displacement | 1597 cm3 (97.45 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.7 l (2.85 US qt | 2.38 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1160 kg (2557.36 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 540 kg (1190.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4510 mm (177.56 in.) |
| Width | 1710 mm (67.32 in.) |
| Height | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2535 mm (99.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Rear track | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 175/70 R14; 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 14; 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Almera Classic 1.6 i 16V is the QG16DE engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Nissan’s QG engine family, known for its relatively simple design and durability. The QG16DE features a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head, incorporating dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine produces 107 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 150 Nm (110.63 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The 5-speed manual transmission was the most common pairing, offering a traditional driving experience. While an automatic transmission was available, it was less frequently chosen and often impacted performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6L engine with the 5-speed manual transmission provides adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 11.5 seconds, and the top speed is approximately 114 mph. The engine feels most comfortable in the mid-range, offering sufficient power for everyday driving situations like highway merging and overtaking. The manual gearbox is light and precise, enhancing driver engagement. Compared to the more powerful engine options available in the Almera Classic range, such as the 1.8L, this variant prioritizes fuel economy and affordability over outright speed. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, resulting in a slightly less responsive feel compared to sportier configurations.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Almera Classic 1.6 i 16V typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an air conditioning system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with a functional and durable design. Higher trim levels offered options such as alloy wheels, a CD player with more speakers, and upgraded interior trim. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard, but airbags were often limited to the driver and front passenger. The overall interior design was practical and focused on providing a comfortable and functional space for passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The Almera Classic utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, suitable for everyday commuting. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums. The braking system, combined with ABS, provides adequate stopping performance for the vehicle’s weight and power. The chassis is designed for stability and predictability, prioritizing comfort over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering, but the overall driving experience is geared towards practicality rather than performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Almera Classic 1.6 i 16V was generally well-received as a practical and affordable family sedan. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and reliability, but noted that its performance was not particularly exciting. Compared to the higher-spec Almera Classic models, such as those with the 1.8L engine, the 1.6L variant offered a more economical option for buyers who prioritized fuel costs and affordability. In terms of reliability, the QG16DE engine proved to be a durable unit, with relatively few major issues reported. Fuel economy figures of around 34.6 US mpg combined made it an attractive option for budget-conscious drivers.
Legacy
The Nissan Almera Classic 1.6 i 16V has established a reputation as a reliable and affordable used car. The QG16DE engine is known for its longevity, and with proper maintenance, these vehicles can continue to provide years of service. While not a particularly sought-after model among enthusiasts, the Almera Classic 1.6 i 16V remains a practical and economical choice for those seeking a no-frills family sedan. Parts availability is generally good, and maintenance costs are relatively low, making it a sensible option for first-time car buyers or those on a tight budget. Its simplicity and durability contribute to its continued presence on the used car market.
