The Nissan Terrano I (WD21) is a robust, body-on-frame sport utility vehicle (SUV) produced by Nissan from 1987 to 1995. While not initially sold in the United States under the Terrano name, it served as the foundation for the first-generation Nissan Pathfinder sold in North America. The Terrano I was primarily marketed in Europe, Australia, and Asia, offering a capable and durable alternative to established European and Japanese competitors. This article focuses on the 2.7 TD 4WD variant, a diesel-powered version known for its torque and off-road capability.
Nissan Terrano I (WD21): A Detailed Overview
The Terrano I represented Nissan’s entry into the growing SUV market of the late 1980s and early 1990s. It was designed to be a versatile vehicle, suitable for both on-road driving and challenging off-road conditions. The WD21 chassis provided a solid base for a variety of engine options and body configurations, including three and five-door models. The 2.7 TD 4WD model, specifically, was popular in markets where diesel fuel was readily available and where buyers prioritized fuel efficiency and low-end torque for towing and off-road use.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Terrano I 2.7 TD 4WD is a 2.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine produces 99 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 216 Nm (159.31 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2200 rpm. While the horsepower figure may seem modest by modern standards, the engine’s torque output provides ample pulling power. The engine utilizes a precombustion chamber injection system and is turbocharged, enhancing its performance. Power is delivered to all four wheels through a five-speed manual transmission and a robust four-wheel-drive system. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 18 seconds, and the vehicle has a maximum speed of 150 km/h (93.21 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 16.9 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 7.7 kg/Nm, indicating a focus on usable power rather than outright speed. Fuel economy is rated at 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg) combined, 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg) in urban settings, and 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle.
Design & Features
The Nissan Terrano I is a classic example of late 1980s/early 1990s SUV design. It features a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing durability and off-road capability. The vehicle is available in both three-door and five-door configurations, offering varying levels of practicality and passenger space. The interior is functional and utilitarian, prioritizing durability over luxury. Features included hydraulic power steering, ventilated front disc brakes, and drum brakes on the rear axle. The suspension utilizes a double wishbone setup at the front and coil springs at the rear, providing a comfortable ride on and off-road. Trunk space ranges from 425 liters (15.01 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1550 liters (54.74 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features of the era were relatively basic, typically including seatbelts and a robust chassis designed to absorb impacts. The Terrano I’s design emphasized practicality and ruggedness, making it a popular choice for those seeking a capable and reliable SUV.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Terrano |
| Generation | Terrano I (WD21) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 TD 4WD (99 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1987 |
| End of production | 1995 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3/5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 18 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 18 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 17.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 150 km/h (93.21 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 99 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 37.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 216 Nm @ 2200 rpm (159.31 lb.-ft. @ 2200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2663 cm3 (162.51 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 21.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Kerb Weight | 1670 kg (3681.72 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 630 kg (1388.91 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 425 l (15.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1550 l (54.74 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4365 mm (171.85 in.) |
| Width | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Height | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/75 R15 |
The Nissan Terrano I (WD21) 2.7 TD 4WD remains a popular choice among enthusiasts and those seeking a reliable and capable off-road vehicle. Its robust construction, torquey diesel engine, and readily available parts make it a practical and enjoyable classic SUV.
