The Nissan Bluebird U14 1.8 FE Automatic, produced between 1996 and 1998, represented a key variant within the broader U14 Bluebird generation. Positioned as a mid-range offering, this model aimed to balance fuel efficiency with acceptable performance for the family sedan market, primarily in Japan and Australia. The U14 Bluebird, a continuation of a long-running Nissan lineage, sought to modernize the Bluebird nameplate with contemporary styling and technology while maintaining its reputation for reliability. This specific 1.8L FE Automatic trim was designed to appeal to buyers prioritizing comfort and ease of use over outright sporting performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Bluebird |
| Generation | Bluebird (U14) |
| Type | 1.8 FE (125 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.7-12.8 l/100 km (24.2 – 18.4 US mpg, 29.1 – 22.1 UK mpg, 10.3 – 7.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.4-8.4 l/100 km (36.8 – 28 US mpg, 44.1 – 33.6 UK mpg, 15.6 – 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg, 32.1 UK mpg, 11.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 187 km/h (116.2 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp, 105.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm, 133.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68 Hp/l |
| Torque | 157 Nm @ 4800 rpm (115.8 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SR18DE |
| Engine displacement | 1838 cm3 (112.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1180 kg (2601.45 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4565 mm (179.72 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1395 mm (54.92 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2600 mm (102.36 in.) |
| Front track | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Rear track | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 175/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Bluebird 1.8 FE Automatic was the SR18DE engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine utilized a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively smooth operation and respectable power output for its displacement. The SR18DE was known for its durability and relatively simple design, making it a cost-effective engine for Nissan to produce. The automatic transmission was a conventional four-speed unit, chosen for its ease of use and suitability for the target demographic. While not offering the most advanced gear ratios, it was tuned to provide smooth shifts and adequate acceleration for everyday driving. The engine code ‘SR18DE’ signifies its place within Nissan’s SR engine family, known for its reliability and widespread use in various Nissan and Renault models.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8L FE Automatic Bluebird offered a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. With 125 horsepower and 157 Nm of torque, acceleration was adequate for merging onto highways and overtaking slower traffic, but it wasn’t a sporty performer. The four-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, lacked the responsiveness of a manual gearbox or a more modern automatic with additional gears. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy rather than outright performance. Compared to the more powerful 2.0L variants, the 1.8L felt noticeably less responsive, especially at higher speeds. However, the softer suspension tuning and comfortable seats made it a pleasant cruiser for long distances.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8 FE Automatic trim typically included features such as power windows, power steering, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. Depending on the market and optional packages, features like alloy wheels, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems could be added. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over aesthetic flair. This trim level was generally considered well-equipped for its price point, offering a good balance of comfort and convenience features.
Chassis & Braking
The U14 Bluebird utilized a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. The suspension consisted of MacPherson struts at the front and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride, but didn’t offer the same level of handling precision as more sophisticated independent rear suspension systems. Braking was accomplished via ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. While adequate for normal driving conditions, the rear drum brakes limited the car’s overall braking performance compared to models equipped with rear discs. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering, but the overall handling characteristics were geared towards comfort rather than sporty dynamics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Bluebird 1.8 FE Automatic was generally well-received as a practical and reliable family sedan. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but noted its lack of sporting pretensions. Compared to other trims in the Bluebird lineup, such as the 2.0L models, the 1.8L offered a more affordable entry point, but at the expense of performance. In terms of fuel economy, the 1.8L Automatic was competitive with other similarly sized sedans in its class. Reliability was a strong point, with the SR18DE engine proving to be durable and relatively maintenance-free.
Legacy
The Nissan Bluebird U14 1.8 FE Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The SR18DE engine is known for its longevity, and parts availability remains reasonably good. While not a particularly collectible model, it represents a solid and dependable option for buyers seeking an affordable and practical used sedan. The combination of a fuel-efficient engine and a comfortable automatic transmission continues to appeal to those prioritizing ease of use and low running costs. Over time, these vehicles have become increasingly rare, but those that remain are often well-maintained and offer a testament to Nissan’s engineering of the era.
